GK Rengma inducted as president of Naga Council Dimapur for 2025–30 tenure

DIMAPUR — The Naga Council Dimapur (NCD) for the term 2025–30 will be headed by GK Rengma, who served as its vice president during the last term.

An oath-taking and induction ceremony of the office bearers and councillors of the NCD for the new tenure was held on Wednesday at Town Hall in Dimapur.

Rengma, who has been in public service for almost four decades in various capacities, remarked upon his induction as head of the council, saying, “This victory is not mine alone – it belongs to every citizen who dreams of a Dimapur united in purpose, rich in culture, and strong in values.”

He expressed that his life’s work has been to serve the state and its people and affirmed, “Today, as I take up this responsibility, I do so with the same spirit of service that has guided me all these years. The Naga Council is not just an institution; it is the collective voice of our people. Our task is to preserve our identity, protect our rights, and work tirelessly for the welfare of every citizen – irrespective of tribe, faith, or background.”

Also read: Eri farmers trained on Integrated Pest Management under Mera Resham Mera Abhiman at Vidima

Along with his team and fellow councillors, he pledged to co-operate with the district administration and the police in keeping Dimapur safe, to create a conducive environment where businesses will thrive, and a place where all fellow citizens, irrespective of caste and religion, will call home.

Outgoing NCD President Etsungmomo Kikon described the day as a turning point, marking the organisation’s transition into a new era after 75 years of service. He emphasised the need for introspection, reformation, and renewal, stressing that the future requires strengthening systems, refining functioning, and upholding inclusiveness, transparency, and accountability.

Kikon reminded the gathering that NCD has been recognised as a legitimate and respected non-political organisation dedicated to promoting justice and fairness among citizens over the decades. He noted that NCD stands as a leading umbrella body with 20 affiliated tribal hohos/unions comprising 16 tribes from Nagaland and four from South Nagas, along with four prominent Dimapur-based civil society organisations (CSOs): Naga Women Hoho Dimapur, Dimapur Naga Students’ Union, GB Union Dimapur (Sadar), and DUCCF.

The outgoing president also reminded the new councillors that they have been entrusted with a sacred responsibility to uphold fairness, promote unity, and work for the welfare of all. He emphasised that their role transcends politics and that they must serve with honesty, listen to the people’s voices, and stand firm for what is just and righteous, as the council exists for the people, not individuals.

He expressed hope and confidence that the NCD would continue to uphold the people’s trust and heritage, serving as a voice for the community, a guardian of unity, and a beacon of service.

Preserving NCD assets and properties

The outgoing president reminded the council that the assets and properties of the NCD, which include land, buildings, and all physical holdings, are the collective inheritance of the people. These assets symbolise the sacrifices of pioneers, the trust of citizens, and the foundation of the Naga cultural identity.

He urged the council members and the community to preserve and safeguard these assets with integrity, ensuring they remain dedicated to public welfare and showcase rich Naga traditions and cultures. These spaces, he said, should celebrate heritage, strengthen unity, and pass on identity to future generations.

“We must be vigilant that under no circumstances should these collective properties be reduced to personal or private assets or be misused for personal gain. To do so would not only weaken the moral fabric of the Council but also rob future generations of their rightful inheritance of tradition, culture, and pride. Such an act would amount to the erosion of our very identity as a people," he asserted.

Kikon maintained that the NCD is not a developmental agency but a guardian of public welfare and a voice of collective conscience. One of the greatest strengths of the council, he noted, has been its deep-rooted relationship and cooperation with the civil society organisations (CSOs) in Dimapur.

This enduring bond, he acknowledged, has created a congenial atmosphere of trust and mutual respect, enabling the Council to work hand in hand with CSOs in addressing important matters and issues of public interest.

Achievements during 2020-2025 tenure

According to Kikon, the induction of the NCD president as a co-opted member in the District Planning and Development Board was an achievement, along with acquiring land for the extension of the new Naga cemetery in the Zani area of around eight bighas and funds for the NCD building. The state government approved a budget of INR 5 crore under the scheme NESIDS-OTRI during 2025–2026 for the construction of a new Naga Council Office building in Dimapur.

Commitment was also secured from Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio to develop Dimapur District Sports Council Stadium (DDSCS) into a world-class stadium.

Issues and challenges ahead

Kikon reminded the new council that the challenges ahead for them included the Indo-Naga political issue. Although not a negotiating body, the NCD, he said, must continue its role as a pressure group, reminding all stakeholders that Naga aspiration cannot be compromised.

On the Nagaland Liquor Total Prohibition (NLTP) Act of 1989, though rooted in noble intentions, the NCD, he said, recognises that this is more than just a legal matter; it is a moral and social question of deep significance.

According to him, the development of Dimapur Railway Station into a world-class hub is another pressing challenge and aspiration for the people. The issue of the Inner Line Permit and illegal immigration is also a pressing concern. In this regard, the NCD has already submitted recommendations to the government and must continue to engage in dialogue so that Naga integrity and identity are safeguarded and never compromised by illegal immigrants or external forces.

DC Dimapur urges unity

Deputy Commissioner of Dimapur, Dr. Tinojongshi Chang, said that the Naga Council Dimapur’s new office bearers’ induction ceremony signifies a renewed commitment to unity, peace, and collective welfare for the Naga community.

He thanked the outgoing team for their dedication, sacrifices, and service, acknowledging their integrity and wisdom in handling responsibilities despite challenges. Dr. Chang urged the new office bearers to lead with humility, courage, and vision, emphasising that their role is a sacred responsibility to serve the people, not just a position of status.

The DC described Dimapur as a culturally diverse city of strategic importance and stressed that the Naga Council Dimapur must continue to safeguard the rights and interests of its people while promoting peaceful coexistence, inter-community harmony, and cooperation with stakeholders.

He urged the newly inducted NCD team to lead with transparency, accountability, and inclusiveness, listening to the people’s voices, respecting elders’ wisdom, and empowering the youth. He emphasised that every action should be guided by a deep sense of responsibility and justice.

He reminded them that unity is key to strength and peace, citing the wisdom of their forebears: “When the clan is united, the village is strong. When the village is united, the land is at peace.”

The newly inducted Naga Council Dimapur 2025–30 members are president GK Rengma; vice-president (administration) M Biremong; vice-president (council bench) M Sapong Chang; general secretary LK Peter; joint secretary (administration) Levusie Nyuthe; joint secretary (attached president) Thejangule Kire; finance secretary Medovie Koza; media cell Tiatemsu Longchar; and treasurer Hotoshe Sumi.