The Kohima District VDB Conference 2012 was held on 20th February 2012 at Khuochiezie (local ground) Kohima with the Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio gracing the occasion as the chief guest.
Addressing the inaugural session, Rio appealed the Angami people to be an asset to Naga society as Kohima being the first district they are more fortunate in many respects.
Rio also urged the VDB members to utilise the schemes judiciously for the development of the district and encouraged them to have far sightedness, as VDB is the most powerful agency in present scenario, which can bring about changes and development in the Naga society in a much bigger way. He opined that if the schemes sanctioned are utilised judiciously, capital city and sub-urban can come up in Kohima district. He therefore encouraged the people to bring about more development in construction of roads and other activities and maintained transparency and accountability in every action of developmental works. “One should earn, save, invest and get multiplied to enjoy the fruits for many years’, he said and further added that if there is more development, peace and prosperity will prevail amongst us. Rio also called upon the Angami people to uphold their ancestral character and identity such as honesty and reliability and further added that the Naga history, culture, traditions, dress and food should be maintained as it is our identity.
The Speaker NLA, Kiyanilie Peseyie who also addressed the Conference said that the VDB, which is the most important agency of government should utilise its funds judiciously in implementing the projects. He also encouraged the VDB Kohima district to bring about more developmental activities in the district.
The Parliamentary Secretary for Rural Development, S. Pangnyu Phom also addressed the conference and said that the VDBs should take up works of income generating schemes and encouraged the Kohima District VDB to take initiative as an example to others.
The Minister for Urban Development, Dr. Shürhozelie Liezietsu and General Secretary VDB, Nagaland, John Kath also spoke on the occasion.
On the occasion, the best 4 (four) VDBs were awarded with cash amount of Rs. 25,000/- and certificates each. They were Khonoma village from Kohima Block, Zhadima village from Chiephobozou Block, Phesama village from Jakhama Block and Zisunyu village from Tseminyu Block. The longest serving VDB Secretary was awarded to Zhavikuolie Keyie from Sirhima village who has been serving for 25 years.
The programme was chaired by Commissioner & Secretary RD, V. Sakhrie while invocation prayer was pronounced by Pastor BMC Rev. Moa Longchari and vote of thanks was delivered by Director RD, Metsubo Jamir. Cultural items and feast marked the occasion.