The Hope Channel Dimapur inaugurated its Shelter Home for Beggars and Homeless under the initiative “Manna for a Soul” at the IHSDP Complex, Netaji Colony, Dimapur on April 1, 2025. La. Ganesan, the Governor of Nagaland graced the occasion as the chief guest.
The event commenced with a welcome address and introduction of the programme by Reshimenla Longchari. Prof. Dr. Darlando Khathing, Pro-Chancellor of North East Christian University, led the invocation.
In her keynote address, Tiakala Amri, founder of Hope Channel expressed gratitude, emphasizing that the shelter symbolizes compassion and collective responsibility. She shared that Hope Channel, started in 2019 under the Ebenezer Society, initially provided refuge for women in distress but later expanded to support the homeless, recognizing the growing need for assistance in Nagaland.
Amri highlighted that the initiative was made possible by the contributions of individuals, churches, and NGOs. She explained that ‘Manna for a Soul’ represents sustenance and dignity, not just offering food and shelter but restoring hope and self-worth to those in need. She urged society to measure progress not by wealth but by how it uplifts the marginalized, highlighting the organization’s mission to provide shelter and support to the underprivileged.
Speaking at the event, Governor, La. Ganesan highlighted the significance of the initiative, emphasizing that the shelter was not merely a place of refuge but a step towards restoring hope and purpose in the lives of those abandoned by society. He noted that poverty is not a crime, but ignoring it is, and stressed the importance of distinguishing between those who beg out of helplessness and those who exploit public sympathy for personal gain.
La. Ganesan referenced the Bombay Prevention of Begging Act, 1959, which criminalizes begging in several states, including Delhi, Maharashtra, Karnataka, and West Bengal, allowing authorities to detain beggars and place them in rehabilitation homes. Expressing hope that similar measures could be adopted in Nagaland, he underscored the need for compassionate implementation of such laws to address the issue effectively.
Hope Channel’s “Manna for the Soul” initiative was lauded as a pioneering effort in Nagaland, aiming not only to provide food and shelter but also to offer education, vocational training, and reintegration opportunities for the homeless. The initiative aspires to create a beggar-free Nagaland through sustained rehabilitation and empowerment.
He called upon individuals, businesses, and institutions to actively participate in this mission, asserting that the government alone cannot eradicate beggary. He urged civil society organizations and faith-based institutions to collaborate in addressing this social challenge, advocating for a society where compassion leads to action and empathy results in empowerment.
Commending Hope Channel for its dedicated efforts, the event concluded with a collective pledge to work towards a future where every individual can live with dignity and self-reliance. The inauguration marked a significant step in addressing homelessness and beggary in Dimapur, reinforcing the commitment to social welfare and humanitarian aid.
The program started with a dedicatory prayer which was offered by Rev. Lipokinba Ao, Secretary of Nagaland Mission Movement. Short speeches were delivered by Zasivikho Zakiesato, President of DUCCF, and Nino Kire, President of Naga Women Hoho. A special presentation of “We Are the World” was performed by children from Ebenezer Orphanage Home and Pastor K. Benjamin Sumi of Dimapur Sumi Baptist Church pronounced the benediction.
( I. Tiakumla Ao, IA, Dimapur)
