Dr.
Tseilhoutuo Rhutso inaugurating the new gymnasium in Kohima on Wednesday.
DIMAPUR — In an effort towards promoting health and
community well-being in Kohima, Member of the Nagaland Legislative Assembly (MLA),
Dr. Tseilhoutuo Rhutso, inaugurated a new outdoor gymnasium under the LAPD
2024–2025 ‘Iconic Project’ on Wednesday.
Speaking at
the inaugural programme, Dr. Rhutso has urged everyone to make use of the
facility and take ownership stating that its belongs to the people.
“This space
is for all young and old and will benefit every individual who chooses to stay
active and healthy,” stated a DIPR report quoting the MLA.
Dr. Rhutso
also announced the upcoming launch of a community-led initiative titled “One
rupee project for change.” The project encourages citizens to voluntarily
contribute INR 1 a day, INR 30 a month or INR 365 a year toward public welfare
efforts across the city.
The
initiative aims to foster a culture of civic responsibility and shared
investment in development especially among urban residents.
“We should
not depend solely on the government,” he said adding that “This project is
about people coming together, giving back and building a better Kohima through
collective effort.”
As part of
the Iconic Project, a small gym has also been installed at the Mental Hospital
in Aradura, underscoring the importance of supporting mental health
infrastructure with dignity and encouraging physical well-being for patients.
Additionally,
plans are underway to construct a pay-and-use toilet at the outdoor gym- a move
aimed at promoting hygiene and creating employment opportunities for local
youth.
The event
concluded with a strong message of unity and civic participation, calling
everyone to take care of those spaces, use them responsibly and commit
themselves to the welfare of our society.
Speaking at
the inaugural programme, the deputy commissioner (DC) of Kohima, B Henok
Buchem, has appreciated the initiative and called for greater civic engagement
and collective responsibility in making Kohima a cleaner, healthier, and more
vibrant town.
Henok
emphasised that the gym is strategically located in one of the busiest public
spaces in the city, frequently visited by people of all ages, especially during
morning and evening hours.
“Health is
wealth and this project is a step in the right direction in helping citizens
take care of their well-being,” he said.
Asserting
that ‘Kohima is our town, our responsibility,’ the DC urged the gathering to do
their part to keep it clean, healthy and peaceful. He added that success of gym
depended on how they care and use it. He further thanked the MLA and the Iconic
Project Committee for the thoughtful initiative and looked forward to many more
such impactful projects in the days to come.
The outdoor
gym is located just below Kohima Law College and is opened to all members of
the public for use.