The development of police infrastructure in Nagaland was marked on 23rd of July with the inauguration of the Nagaland Police Officers’ Central Mess (NPOCM) and the NGOs’ Mess at the Police Complex in Chümoukedima.
The event was graced by Chief Minister of Nagaland, Dr. Neiphiu Rio, as the Special Guest for the occasion and Deputy Chief Minister, Home & Border Affairs, Yanthungo Patton, attended as the Guest of Honour.
The inauguration ceremony began with the formal opening of the NGOs’ Mess by the Chief Minister, followed by the inauguration of the Officers’ Central Mess. The program then shifted to Rhododendron Hall at the NPOCM, where a formal function was held.
In the formal programme, Dr. Neiphiu Rio, Chief Minister highlighted the significance of these new facilities. “These buildings are symbols of our Government’s unwavering commitment to the welfare, dignity, and professional well-being of our police force,” he stated.
Dr. Rio emphasized that in uniformed services, the Mess is more than a shared facility—it serves as a centre of unity, discipline, mutual respect, and camaraderie, promoting reflection, bonding, and team spirit among personnel.
Tracing the legacy of the Officers’ Mess back to the establishment of the 1st NAP Battalion in 1964, he noted that the new complex will continue the proud traditions of the Nagaland Police and inspire future generations through stories of courage, brotherhood, and professional pride.
The Chief Minister commended the efforts of leaders, engineers, architects, contractors, and police personnel who ensured timely completion of the project. He also acknowledged the evolving challenges faced by the state, including cybercrime, organized crime, and drug trafficking, and reiterated the government’s commitment to equipping the force with modern technologies and infrastructure.
Touching on the police-population ratio (1136 officers per lakh), he stressed that policing must be grounded in cooperation and mutual respect, with officers upholding the highest standards of professionalism, impartiality, and integrity.
Dr. Rio also recognized the hardships faced by police personnel and their families, particularly regarding housing and working conditions. He assured continued efforts to enhance support systems and welfare measures.
Concluding his speech, the Chief Minister reaffirmed the state government’s full support and urged police officers to serve with honour, integrity, and dedication. He extended his heartfelt congratulations to all involved in the project and expressed best wishes to those who will benefit from the new facilities in the years to come.
Addressing the gathering, Y. Patton emphasized the importance of providing modern, dignified accommodations for police personnel. The newly inaugurated facilities replace the decades-old structures that had become dilapidated and unsuitable for use, he said. He further stated that originally constructed in the early 1970s, the old mess cottages had deteriorated over time, making it difficult for officers and jawans to function efficiently.
With the support of the Central Government under the Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI) 2023–24, ₹10.50 crore was sanctioned for the construction of both the Officer’s Mess and the NGO’s Mess. The Central Mess now accommodates 24 officers and their families, while the NGO’s Mess offers housing for 64 non-gazetted officers, complete with essential modern amenities, he said.
Highlighting the venue of the program, Patton noted that Rhododendron Hall, inaugurated in 1990, had served the police and government well over the last 35 years. However, he proposed the establishment of a State-of-the-Art Multi-Purpose Facility to replace the aging hall and better serve future programs in Dimapur.
He concluded his speech with a call to action, encouraging NGOs and officers to work harder, be persistent and uphold integrity in their service. “Together, we can all move forward to build a better place to live in,” he said.
IPS, DIGP (Training), Imnalensa chaired the proceedings and IPS, DGP Nagaland, Rupin Sharma delivered the welcome address, which was followed by a technical report presented by Chief Engineer, PEP PHQ, Er. K. Imnajungba Jamir.
The vote of thanks was delivered by IPS, ADGP (Administration), Nagaland, Renchamo P. Kikon.
(Limatoshi, IA Dimapur)
