Deputy Commissioner, Kohima, B Henok Buchem and Thejao Vihienuo, President, Angami Public Organisation seen with the NGOs/CSOs who were presented with Certificates of Appreciation, along with other Officials at Kohima DC's Office on August 21.
Morung Express News
Kohima | August 21
Underscoring that the true strength of a society is reflected in the manner in which it treats its most vulnerable members, Deputy Commissioner of Kohima, B Henok Buchem, NCS on Friday asserted that the government and district administration have an important responsibility to ensure welfare, social security and inclusive development.
However, he said government alone cannot address every need of society and urged that, “the partnership between government, civil society, NGOs, community organisations, faith-based organisations, philanthropic groups and responsible citizens is indispensable for building a compassionate and inclusive society.
He was delivering the keynote address during the programme on presentation of certificates of appreciation to NGOs/CSOs in recognition of philanthropic activities undertaken on the occasion of the 80th Independence Day Celebrations, 2026 at the DC conference hall on August 21.
In this regard, he noted that the organisations being recognised have demonstrated precisely the spirit of building a compassionate and inclusive society while acknowledging their service towards strengthening the social fabric of communities.
Stating that NGOs and CSOs possess valuable grassroots knowledge, he said that they understand local communities, identify emerging needs and often reach people much faster than formal systems can. Towards this end, he said that the administration can facilitate convergence of government schemes, provide institutional support and help connect deserving beneficiaries with appropriate services.
This complementary relationship, he underlined can create a much greater impact and encouraged them to continue maintaining close communication with the district administration while assuring that the district administration remain committed to facilitating genuine and constructive initiatives undertaken for public welfare. “We must strive to build a culture where government schemes and community initiatives reinforce each other rather than operate in isolation.”
Urging the gathering to continue their work with the same commitment, transparency, compassion and dedication, he said, “let us promite volunteerism and strengthen networks of care within our communities. Most importantly, let us never allow any person in our society to feel that they have been forgotten.”
In his special address, Thejao Vihienuo, President of Angami Public Organisation remarked that this is the first time that the government is giving recognition to NGOs/CSOs for their philanthropic works and acknowledged the Deputy Commissioner's Office for showing appreciation in a befitting manner.
He commented that many of those whom the organisations have visited may not be aware of what Independence Day is, he exuded belief that the little token given must have given them a sense of what it means.
“Your visit to these homes must have really impacted them in their lives and I call upon you to continue this service even in the days to come”, he urged.
While Nagaland state is also known for its increasing number of organisations/societies, he maintained that as compared to other towns, Kohima has the least number of NGOs/Societies, which are also determined and meaningful.
Each NGO in Kohima, he further remarked is tirelessly working to make Kohima a better place and thanked them for the services they have been rendering in various ways. “May your endeavour go to higher heights”, he added.
Highlights of the event included sharing of experiences by Kohima Chamber of Commerce & Industry, Nagaland Contractor's and Supplier's Union, and Classic Club while President of Kohima Press Club, Vishü Rita Krocha spoke on the “role of Civil Societies & Media in amplifying the voices of vulnerable sections & strengthening social responsibility.”
The programme was chaired by Er Seyiekhrietuo Solo, NCS, SDO (C) Kohima while Additional Deputy Commissioner, Kohima, Ruopfukuotuo Noudi, NCS proposed the vote of thanks.