Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio marked the inauguration of the Sechüma Mechü Zie (Playground) at Sechü village today. In his address during the inauguration ceremony, Rio emphasized that the progress of the state hinges not solely on the government but on the collective efforts and unity of its people. He underscored how lack of unity among village leaders often impedes development projects undertaken by the government.
Rio commended the leaders and residents of Sechü village for their exemplary unity and selflessness in driving development initiatives within their community. He stressed the importance of transparent and dedicated utilization of funds allocated for development projects, expressing confidence that such practices will accelerate Nagaland’s progress.
Highlighting the significance of the newly inaugurated playground, Rio underscored its role in fostering youth health and talent development, positioning the youth as the cornerstone of the state’s future. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to youth empowerment through the promotion of sports, culture, traditional music, and cuisine of the Naga people. Rio also announced plans to elevate sporting facilities to national and international standards, with the completion of the Kohima Local Ground and the transformation of the old secretariat area into a commercial hub.
Rio revealed the state cabinet’s aspiration to host the National Games once local athletes are adequately trained and groomed for competitive sports. The Chief Minister also unveiled the Playground Commemoration stone during the event.
In her address, Minister for Horticulture & Women Resource Development Salhoutuonuo Kruse underscored the importance of youth engaging in farming ventures, leveraging science and technology for sustainable livelihoods, and reducing dependence on government employment.
Earlier in the day, Rio laid the foundation stone for the Mere-Sechü-Rau Seyie Complex site at Sechü (Zubza), while Kruse inaugurated the Sechüma Village Approach road constructed under MGNREGA, signifying a broader commitment to infrastructural development and rural empowerment in Nagaland.