CM Rio conferred honorary D.Litt by North East Christian University

• Rio’s stewardship propelled Nagaland toward progress — Guv. Ganesan

La Ganesan awarding the honorary Doctor of Letters to Neiphiu Rio on Tuesday. (EM Images)

• DIMAPUR — In a fitting tribute to a prolific political career spanning 50 years, Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio was conferred honorary Doctor of Letters (D.Litt) by North East Christian University (NECU), Dimapur, on Tuesday.
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• Nagaland Governor La Ganesan, the Visitor of NECU, awarded the honorary degree to chief minister during the first convocation ceremony of NECU held at Anchor Complex, Burma Camp.
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• According to the Governing Council of NECU, Rio was conferred the honorary degree in recognition of his “outstanding contributions to human resources development.”
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• Chancellor of NECU, Prof. Rev. Dr. Akheto Sema, who read out the citation, shared that Rio holds the record of being the longest-serving chief minister in the state for the fifth time.
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• The Chancellor mentioned that as a state leader, Rio has been participating in many national and international events, including the 44th National Breakfast Prayer meeting programme at Washington DC, delivering the keynote address at the World Bamboo Conference in Bangkok, Thailand, and delivering public lecture at Queens University of Belfast, UK.
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• He is also a recipient of the Mother Teresa Millennium Award for his outstanding leadership as a renowned social worker and politician. Rio was also awarded the National Human Rights and Duties Award by the Indian Institute of Human Rights.
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• Complementing the area of human resource development, Rio was instrumental in establishing the Sainik School at Punglwa, encouraging digital awareness and practice by creating the Technology Park in Kohima, and positively supporting higher education by initiating establishment of the Northeast Christian University and St. Joseph's University through legislative acts.

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• Additionally, Rio played a key role in setting up the Task Force of Music and Arts (TaFMA), the first such music industry in the country.
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• “He actively promoted Nagaland at the international level through his visits overseas, through regular interaction with different embassies in Delhi and Kolkata, and more prominently through the annual state Hornbill Festival.
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• “Understated, but a reality, he brought in an era of peace in Nagaland during the last two decades which catalysed human resources development in the state,” the citation read.
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• La Ganesan, the graduation speaker for the ceremony, acknowledged that Rio’s stewardship has propelled Nagaland toward progress and that the honorary degree is not only a recognition of his contributions but also “their faith in his unwavering dedication to their people’s future.”
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• The governor encouraged the graduates to carry forward the knowledge, empathy and spirit they have nurtured when they step into higher studies, employment or entrepreneurship.
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• Recognition a testament to shared commitment — Rio
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• In his acceptance speech, the chief minister said that the “recognition is not only a personal milestone but a testament to their shared commitment, fostering international relations and launching visionary initiatives that uplift their communities.”
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• Rio admitted that the university's dedication to creating a vibrant, inclusive and intellectually stimulating environment has been a source of inspiration to many, including himself.
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• He mentioned that throughout his journey, he has always believed that “true progress is built on the foundation of global collaboration and innovative thinking and in today's interconnected world their ability to bridge cultures and ideas is paramount.”
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• He went on to mention that over the past five decades, he has been blessed to serve the state and its people in various capacities, and that in the realm of politics and public affairs, there have been many highs and lows, each marked by its own triumphs and challenges.
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• “In a state like Nagaland, though modest in size and population, we encounter unique challenges and circumstances every day. I have reached this point only with the abundant blessings and grace of God Almighty, and the unwavering love and support of our people.
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•  “This journey has exceeded all my expectations, and my family and I are deeply grateful to everyone who has stood by us with your steadfast support, solidarity and prayers,” he said.
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• The chief minister urged the graduating class to become passionate ambassadors of Nagaland on the global stage and embrace the “legacy of this remarkable state and let its story of courage, innovation and unity inspire their contributions to nation-building.”