Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio reaffirms Nagaland government’s commitment to youth empowerment

KOHIMA — Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio on Wednesday reaffirmed Nagaland government’s commitment to nurturing young talent and creating an environment where every dream finds the wings to soar.

He was speaking during a visit to the Capt. Neikezhakuo Kenguruse, MVC, Centre of Excellence & Wellness at Chieswema Garrison in Kohima, run under the National Integrity and Educational Development Organisation (NIEDO).

Addressing students, mentors, Assam Rifles personnel and other dignitaries, Rio described the centre as more than just a tribute to Captain Kenguruse, one of Nagaland’s most valiant sons.

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“It is a living legacy,” he said. “His courage, sacrifice, and unwavering love for the nation are not only part of history, but are deeply embedded in the spirit of this institution. I believe his values continue to inspire every student who walks through these gates.”

The Centre of Excellence & Wellness, in partnership with the Assam Rifles, Axis Bank, and NIEDO, provides coaching and mentoring to selected students from across the state, particularly for competitive exams like NEET and JEE.

Rio lauded the centre for being a shining example of what a vision backed by discipline, mentorship, and collective purpose can achieve.

Lauding the Assam Rifles, the chief minister said their role goes far beyond maintaining law and order.

“Your actions, not only here in Chieswema but also in Medziphema, and the proposal for another centre in Mokokchung, are deeply appreciated. You have lived up to your slogan — ‘Friends of the Hill,’” he remarked.

He acknowledged the Assam Rifles for being active contributors to the development of society and praised their involvement in empowering Nagaland’s youth.

Rio highlighted the success of the centre’s first three batches, all of whom achieved 100% pass rates in their respective NEET and JEE examinations.

He also expressed gratitude to Axis Bank, one of the centre’s partners, for demonstrating responsible corporate citizenship.

“Your contribution has not only provided financial support but has also empowered the dreams of countless young minds from some of the remotest corners of Nagaland,” he said, adding that their faith in the students’ potential will resonate for generations.

Rio placed on record his appreciation for NIEDO, the academic pillar of the initiative. “Your tireless dedication has helped shape not only academically strong students but also future leaders—individuals grounded in empathy, integrity, and purpose,” he said.

Addressing the current batch of 33 students, Rio called them the “torchbearers of tomorrow” and urged them to carry forward the legacy of Captain Kenguruse with pride and determination.

“You carry the hopes and aspirations of families across Nagaland. The government believes in your potential and walks with you every step of the way,” he said, urging them to make the most of the rare opportunity they have received.

Sharing a personal note, Rio recalled that his father served in the 1st Assam Regiment during British Raj, and that military values of discipline and service shaped his family. “His journey helped instil the values that have shaped me and my siblings,” he shared.

Rio further emphasised that the centre is not merely an academic institute, but a movement for transformation. “It is a movement toward empowerment, toward equality of opportunity, and a brighter future for our youth,” he declared.

The chief minister extended his best wishes to the mentors, soldiers, and all stakeholders involved in the project. “May this Centre of Excellence and Wellness continue to reach greater heights and become an iconic institution—one that will make Nagaland truly proud.”

Also speaking at the event, Director General of the Assam Rifles (DGAR), Lt. Gen. Vikas Lakhera, expressed admiration for the talent in Nagaland.

“In my 36 years of service, I have travelled across the country, and I can say the per capita talent in Nagaland is unparalleled,” he stated.

Lakhera noted that in spite of the many challenges youth in the region face, they continue to excel.

“Education is the most powerful force in the world. Every battle can be won through it, and every misery can be resolved with it. If we are educated and enlightened, we can see the righteous path of growth and lead our society to a better future,” he said.

Encouraging the students, he revealed that some students from previous NIEDO batches had qualified for IITs and would soon begin their academic journey at one of the world’s best engineering institutions.

He also announced that a third Centre of Excellence and Wellness would be established in Mokokchung by the end of July 2025.

Inspector General Assam Rifles (North), Maj. Gen. Manish Kumar, also delivered a brief address during the event.