Gorkha community in Kohima and Dimapur pays tribute to Major Durga Malla and Captain Neikezhakuo Kengurüse to mark Balidan Diwas.
DIMAPUR — Balidan Diwas (Martyrs’ Day) 2026 was observed in Kohima and Dimapur on Tuesday by the Gorkha community to honour the sacrifices of Major Durga Malla and Captain Neikezhakuo Kengurüse, with a commemorative programme organised by the Gorkha Public Panchayat Kohima (GPPK) and a voluntary blood donation camp organised by the Gorkha Youth Club Dimapur (GYCD).
In Kohima, Balidan Diwas was observed at the Multi-Utility Hall of the Gorkha Public Panchayat Complex, Chandmari, according to an update.
Addressing the gathering as the chief guest, Deputy Commissioner (DC) of Kohima B Henok Buchem said Martyrs’ Day is not merely an occasion for remembrance but also a time for reflection, gratitude and renewed commitment to the values for which the martyrs sacrificed their lives.
He said the freedoms, peace and opportunities enjoyed today had been built on the sacrifices of countless men and women who placed duty and the nation above personal interests.
The DC highlighted the long tradition of courage, discipline, loyalty and service associated with the Gorkha community and acknowledged its contribution to the defence and security of the country as well as to the social, cultural and economic life of Nagaland, particularly Kohima.
Buchem urged the younger generation to draw lessons from the lives of the martyrs and cultivate values of discipline, integrity, compassion, courage and respect for fellow citizens.
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Maintaining that the strongest tribute to martyrs would be to build a society that is peaceful, responsible, inclusive and just, he called for greater unity, communal harmony and mutual respect among communities in Kohima and Nagaland.
Guest of Honour and Deputy Registrar of Cooperative Societies, Cooperation Department, Nagaland, Bharati Chinhal, and Neisielie Kenguruse, father of late Captain Neikezhakuo Kengurüse, also exhorted the gathering.
In Dimapur, the Gorkha Youth Club Dimapur organised a voluntary blood donation camp at the District Hospital to honour the legacy of Major Durga Malla and Captain Neikezhakuo Kengurüse.
According to an update, attending the event as the representative of the special guest, Tungupu K Zhimomi, President of the Business Consultancy Network, Shikupu Zhimomi, General Secretary of the Business Consultancy Network, delivered the special address.
In his message, Shikupu lauded the GYCD for their social dedication, noting that blood donation is the ultimate gift of life to society.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Rongsenmar Longkumer, Consultant and In-charge of the Blood Bank at District Hospital, Dimapur, encouraged citizens to come forward and dismantle common myths and fears associated with blood donation. He stated that any individual aged 18 or above who fulfils the medical fitness criteria prescribed by a doctor can safely donate blood twice a year.
Detailing the spirit of the initiative, Sumit Sunar, President of the GYCD, stated that the Gorkhas have always stood on the frontlines for the nation, reiterating that the community remains ready to serve whenever there is a need.