Hovithal Sothu was honoured at a farewell programme in Jotsoma as he transitions from TaFMA to ATI Kohima.
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KOHIMA — A farewell programme honouring Hovithal Sothu, Project Director for the Task Force for Music and Arts (TaFMA), was held on Tuesday at Regional Centre of Excellence for Music and Performing Arts (RCEMPA), Jotsoma, in Kohima.
Sothu joined TaFMA on November 30, 2018, as the Project Director, and his new assignment will be at the Administrative Training Institute (ATI) in Kohima.
Speaking at the programme, Sothu shared that whatever was done during his seven years and six months as the project director of TaFMA was all with the best of intentions. He recalled that in 2018, the state government gave him the opportunity to lead the music department.
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He shared that during his tenure, he did things with good intentions, and while a lot of things may not have been up to the pace of some people, the goal was clear, which was to give opportunities to musicians and to let them earn a living for themselves.
Sothu thanked all those who stood with him through thick and thin over the years. He also expressed gratitude to every individual, group, and organisation he worked with and who influenced him.
Keoshu Yimkhiung, Advisor for Youth Resource and Sports (YRS), commended the leadership of Sothu, citing that there had been much improvement during his tenure. He said that under Sothu's leadership and the initiative of TaFMA, Nagaland has been able to showcase its culture to the outside world. He added that the team unitedly uplifted the Naga youth in various capacities.
Anthony Ngullie, Commissioner and Secretary of YRS, commended Sothu for his dedication to work, which always stood out, and said that he performed his job wel.
Theja Meru, Chairman of TaFMA, described Sothu as a "true officer and gentleman" and recalled how he felt blessed with the relationship and partnership they shared in building the ecosystem to serve the arts and music community.
Abu Metha, Advisor to the Chief Minister of Nagaland and Chairman of the Investment and Development Authority of Nagaland (IDAN), opined that Sothu has been disciplined and compassionate. He cited that, working behind the scenes, Sothu was the backbone of TaFMA, which enabled dreams and aspirations to come true, and appreciated him for his sacrifices and contributions.
Alobo Naga, Kuvelu Tetseo, and Khyochano TCK delivered short speeches as tributes on behalf of the music fraternity. The programme also featured performances by various musicians, including Inato Assumi, Nise Meruno, Azi Rudy, and Bright Lights.