Uniform development essential for collective growth: WTR CAO
Source: Chronicle News Service / R Lester Makang
Ukhrul, January 24 2024:
The XXV Katho Katamnao Long (KKL) General Conference-cum-Sports Meet kicked off at Nungou Aze village under Ukhrul AC with great enthusiasm and cultural splendour on Wednesday.
The inaugural ceremony of the event, which is being held under the theme 'Heritage of Oneness', was attended by Wungnaoyung Sayai, CAO of Wung Tangkhul Region (WTR), as chief guest and Ngazipmi Chahong, a geologist of Geological Survey of India (GSI), as guest of honour.
The inauguration saw hoisting of the KKL flag by Sayai, in the presence of KKL president Mashungmi Zingkhai, KKL officials, and other dignitaries.
Addressing the audience, Sayai expressed his delight at allowing a small village like Nungou Aze to host this significant event.
He emphasised that this move was a step in the right direction and would pave the way for development of backward villages in the region.
He also stressed the need for uniform development in all villages for the collective growth of Katho region.
Sayai spoke highly of the Katho youths and their potential to become the future pillars of society.
He urged the young participants to utilize this platform to learn values such as discipline, teamwork, and leadership, instead of viewing it as mere merriment and time pass.
He also encouraged them to focus on raising the standards of society as responsible citizens.
In his speech, Chahong shed light on the essential pillars of society that are crucial for the overall growth and development of a community.
He emphasised the importance of family, spirituality, education, governance, media, and business.
Chahong then called for unity and cooperation among the people in promoting these pillars of society, adding that with collective efforts and support from each other, Katho can thrive and become a well-developed region.
In his presidential address, Zingkhai emphasised the mission of KKL to build human resources rather than materialistic growth.
He urged the youth to focus on personal and professional development, which would eventually lead to the progress of the entire society.
Acknowledging the rich culture and traditions of the Katho region, which have been passed down through generations, he stressed that these age-old customs and beliefs hold immense significance in shaping the identity of the community and should be preserved and revived by the younger generation.
Zingkhai also urged the community to work together and utilize their respective talents and resources for the progress and prosperity of the Katho region.
KKL pioneer AS Nganaimi unveiled the KKL monolith and recalled that the Katho students' organisation was established in 1981.The week-long event will include various activities and competitions such as traditional sports like tug of war, marathon, and football and volleyball, and cultural performances like Hao Laa, PJieichak and also, quiz, extempore speech, choreography, debate and discussions on topics related to the development of the Katho region.
It will also feature musical performances from Oking Band, Thangmeiso Shinglai, Ningshang Ngakang, Yuileichan Mahongnao, Yarshim Wungsek, Winso Chamroy, Pingmeiso Khapai and Reitimla Khapai.
The cultural session on January 28 will be attended by retired IRS K Timothy Zimik and Dr Soreingam Kasomhung, assistant professor, JNIMS Hospital, Imphal as chief guest and guest of honour.
Ukhrul MLA Ram Muivah and Remember Khapai proprietor, Messanger Sound, will attend the valedictory function as chief guest and guest of honour respectively.
The KKL event is being participated by a total of 17 units out of 22 units/villages under the KKL, and 815 delegates.
Located about 50 km from Ukhrul town, Nungou Aze has around 38 houses with a population of 220.The village is well known for production of banana and Naga king chilli.