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KOHIMA — New Market Youth Organisation (NMYO) in Kohima celebrated its golden jubilee on Sunday on the theme "Retrospect the past, celebrate the present, welcome the future."
Speaking on the occasion as the special guest, Salhoutuonuo Kruse, minister of Women Resource and Horticulture, emphasised the importance of recognising and appreciating the pioneers and leaders who laid the foundation for NMYO's jubilee celebration.
She commended the organisation for providing a platform where young individuals can discover their potential, refine their skills, and contribute significantly to the colony and community, particularly in areas such as games, sports, literary activities, arts, music, and sanitation.
Kruse highlighted the noteworthy achievements of NMYO's football team, stating that its success extended beyond the town to make a mark at the state and regional levels.
Emphasising the vital role of youth in society, she urged them to learn from the past, remain vigilant in the present, and envision a future that is brighter and more promising for the coming generations.
The minister underscored the significance of a hardworking and progressive youth population in ensuring the progress and growth of society.
Addressing the challenges faced by the present society including unemployment, factionalism, immigration issues, laziness and a gap between religion and moral practice, Kruse pointed out the government's efforts to address those challenges under the leadership of Chief Minister, Neiphiu Rio.
She highlighted various programmes, trainings and employment opportunities initiated by the government to address the concerns of over 90,000 registered unemployed youth in the state.
Kruse encouraged the youth to actively seek and avail themselves of those opportunities provided by different government departments.
She called for collective efforts to support the youth in leveraging the benefits offered by the government.
As one of the oldest youth bodies in the town, with pioneers having carried the torch to its current milestone, Kruse reminded NMYO members of their responsibility to uphold the torch for future generations.
Expressing anticipation for the organisation's continued contributions, she looked forward to witnessing NMYO's sustained efforts in advancing the progress of society as it embarks on a new chapter.
Ruokuobeizo Nyusou, chairman of New Market Area Panchayat, conveyed greetings on the occasion and emphasised that jubilee is more than a time for celebration—it's an opportunity to express gratitude to God for His abundant blessings.
As a founding member of NMYO, Nyusou expressed appreciation for the valuable lessons instilled by their parents.
He recounted a significant moment when an elderly man gathered them on a roadside, offering prayers that became a tradition before commencing any activities while mentioning about the good lessons bestowed to them by their parents.
Nyusou highlighted the biblical essence of jubilee, signifying freedom, forgiveness, and the release of slaves, callimg for forgiveness, urging everyone to let go of unpleasant pasts.
Offering best wishes as the guest of honour, Dr. Tseilhoutuo Rhutso, MLA from 9th Kohima town, reminisced about New Market's bustling meat business four decades ago.
Despite the colony being once considered among the dirtiest localities in Kohima, it has now earned the distinction of being the cleanest, receiving an award for its cleanliness.
Rhutso urged other wards to follow suit highlighting the atmosphere of understanding and peace in the colony while commending the visionary pioneers of NMYO.
He also acknowledged the accomplishments of the New Market Football Team, a local favourite and recognised their journey.
Rhutso praised the youth's proactive approach in ensuring every colony member receives government benefits, such as the fair distribution of essential items like rice.
However, he revealed concerns about unfair practices in the distribution of these items in other colonies, emphasizing the need to address such issues and eliminate tribalism.
Assuring corrective measures, he urged the residents of New Market colony (Ward - 8) to discard tribalism, emphasizing its detrimental impact.
Rhutso called on everyone to responsibly contribute to the colony and society, emphasizing the importance of timely service.
Highlights of the celebration included unfurling of NMYO flag by Kuotsuwhelie Kehie, first president of NMYO; unveiling of golden jubilee clock tower, releasing of golden jubilee baloons and souvenir by special guest and guest of honour; special performance from jubilee choir; extravaganza night by various artistes, etc.