(Left) Lanu Toy officialy releases the ‘Chubala’ book in the presence of the author I T Longkumer at Tia Ki, Bank Colony, Dimapur on April 11. (Photo Courtesy: Imchatsung Imchen)
Morung Express News
Dimapur | April 11
A new book titled “Chubala” was officially launched at a programme held at Tia Ki, Nagaland Art Space, Bank Colony, Dimapur on April 11, with speakers highlighting the life, achievements and enduring legacy of Chubala Longkumer.
Former Meghalaya Director General of Police I T Longkumer, the author, described the publication as the fulfilment of a “long-cherished dream” that took nearly 25 years to materialise. Recalling the journey, he said the idea of writing the book had remained dormant for years due to family responsibilities and personal challenges.
He said he initially began with a manuscript but had to rework his style after his son pointed out that it resembled a government report, reflecting his 37-year career in official government-related writing. Despite interruptions, he remained determined to complete the work, driven largely by the deep bond he shared with his sister, who mentored him throughout his education and played a key role in shaping his career, including his eventual entry into the Indian Police Service.
Longkumer said the book draws from personal memories, family narratives and stories shared by his sister and mother, offering insights into their lives, struggles and achievements. He noted that it seeks to give younger readers an understanding of past generations and their way of life.
Highlighting her legacy, he said Chubala Longkumer achieved significant milestones in education and public service at a time when societal attitudes towards women were discouraging, yet she persevered without directly confronting such prejudices and went on to set benchmarks for others.
Detailing her career, he said she was among the early batch of officers in 1956, served in various capacities including in education, became the first secretary of the Nagaland Public Service Commission, and was later inducted into the IAS, making her one of the first women from the state to attain such distinction.
He added that the book, described by publishers as a tribute to an “outstanding lady”, is not for sale and will instead be distributed to libraries and institutions for public access.
Retired Nagaland Director General of Police T J Longkumer, in his address, paid a heartfelt tribute, recalling her as a “guardian angel” who played a pivotal role in shaping his life, education and career.
He said she took him under her care from a young age when he was sent to Kohima for schooling and credited her with laying the foundation of his education, improving his English and helping him overcome severe stammering through patient mentoring and daily practice.
He further recounted that she later arranged specialised speech therapy for him in Mumbai at considerable personal expense, which enabled him to overcome the condition significantly. In his early adulthood, she again guided him by encouraging him to appear for the NPSC and UPSC examinations, a turning point that eventually shaped his career.
Describing her as a unifying force, he said she maintained strong bonds among siblings and relatives, with her home serving as a refuge and gathering place during both difficult and celebratory times.
He highlighted her qualities of discipline, compassion and generosity, noting that she was deeply religious, socially graceful and remained calm under all circumstances, extending kindness to family members and others in need.
He also acknowledged the contributions of extended family members and thanked the author for documenting her life through a “truthful and sensitive” account, adding that her enduring influence continues to inspire generations.
The programme was chaired by Prof J Longkumer, while the invocation was led by Shilula, Pastor, MBTA. A musical interlude in memory of Chubala was presented by the Nagaland Conservatory of Music. The book was officially launched by Lanu Toy, Retd Chief Engineer and Secretary, Nagaland, followed by a dedicatory prayer by Rev Kilang Longkumer, Pastor, Nukmen Ao Baptist Church, Darogapathar.
Moa Longkumer delivered the word of gratitude, while the benediction was pronounced by Prof Dr Darlando T Khathing, Pro Chancellor, North East Christian University, Dimapur.
