Kohima, Jan. 27: Director of State's Tourism Department, KT Thomas passed away Friday morning at a private hospital in New Delhi following a brief illness. He was 56. Family sources informed that the mortal remains of late Thomas would be flown to Dimapur on Saturday.
KT Thomas, who hailed from Tesophenyu village under Tseminyu sub-division of Kohima district, is said to have joined the government service as a Tourist Officer in 1985. He was recently promoted to head the State Tourism Department as Director in December 2016.
During his time as an officer of the State, Department stWaff credited him to have almost single-handedly orchestrated and supervised the smooth conduct of the government funded annual Hornbill Festival every year.
Following his demise, several organisations and individuals have conveyed their condolences to the bereaved family.
CM: Chief Minister TR Zeliang has condoled the demise of KT Thomas at New Delhi this morning.
Zeliang termed late Thomas as a soft-spoken and unassuming person having vast knowledge on myriads of topics that many considered him as a ‘Walking Encyclopedia.’ Stating that he has personally witnessed in the last few years during the Hornbill Festivals, Zeliang found late Thomas as a very reliable person who always ensured that the tasks entrusted to him were completed in an outstanding manner, adding he was indeed a ‘Government servant worth emulating by others.’
Zeliang lamented that his passing away has been a great loss to the department he headed so efficiently. He further conveyed condolence to the bereaved family members and prayed for the eternal rest of the departed soul.
Neiphiu Rio: Lok Sabha MP Neiphiu Rio, while condoling the untimely demise of KT Thomas, described him as a sincere officer who was always committed towards his duties and responsibilities.
Rio has accredited late Thomas for the commendable progress made by the department of Tourism in bringing Nagaland on the international tourist map. Rio said late Thomas was one of the hardworking officers who was always willing to walk the extra mile in the service of the government.
In his demise, the State government, especially the Department of Tourism has lost a capable officer with vast experience. Rio lamented adding his absence will be felt in the years to come.
Rio further conveyed condolence to the bereaved family members and prayed to Almighty God to let the departed soul rest in peace.
