Meluri (Nagaland) [India], February 22 (HBTV): Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio officially inaugurated Meluri as the 17th district of the state on February 21. The event was marked by celebrations and a series of official speeches.

Addressing the gathering as the special guest, CM Rio highlighted that Meluri was notified as Nagaland's 17th district on November 2, 2024. He congratulated the Chakhesang Public Organisation (CPO) and its leadership for their support in recommending and issuing the 'No Objection Certificate' for the district's formation. He urged them to continue fostering brotherhood and unity between the Chakhesang and Pochury tribes, along with the rest of the Naga community.

Rio noted that Meluri's administrative centre was established 67 years ago, with a Chairman Bench Court set up in 1958. Calling Meluri the 'Land of Fortunes,' he emphasized the district's natural and cultural wealth, including Shiloi Lake, Tizu River (which connects to the Chindwin River), and the Trade Centre at Avakhung. He also highlighted Meluri's rich cultural heritage and economic potential as a newly formed district.

As part of the celebrations, the Chief Minister unveiled a monolith marking the inauguration and also inaugurated the Multidiscipline Sports Stadium. Short speeches were delivered by Chief Secretary J Alam, IAS; Advisor, N&RE, NSDMA, Z Nyusietho Nyuthe; and Minister for Power and Parliamentary Affairs KG Kenye. The welcome address was delivered by President of Pochury Hoho, Chonpa Jurry, while the profile of Meluri District was presented by the Deputy Commissioner of Meluri. Greetings were also extended by the President of Chakhesang Public Organisation.

The highlights of the event included a special song performed by Atusa Katiry and the South East Nagaland District (SEND) choir. Cultural dances were presented by the Lozaphuhu Cultural Troupe, Meluri Area Public Organisation, Apoksa Area Public Organisation, Kamalia Area Public Organisation, Phoyisha Area Public Organisation, and Phokhungri Area Public Organisation.

The invocation and benediction were delivered by Reverend Rumatho Nyusou, Executive Secretary of the Pochury Baptist Church Council, and Reverend Rathuvu Thuvuri, Executive Secretary of the Pochury Council, NCRC. The programme was chaired by Mhathung Tsanglao, NCS, Deputy Commissioner of Meluri.

The inauguration of Meluri District marks a significant milestone in the administrative and developmental landscape of Nagaland, promising new opportunities for the region and its people.

(ANI)