Delivering a stirring address that combined administrative urgency with spiritual depth Y. Kikheto Sema, IAS, Principal Secretary to the Government of Nagaland, laid out a transformative vision for the Northern Sumi (Sema) region during the 67th Northern Sumi Baptist Churches Association (NSBAK) gathering, held from December 16–18, 2025, under the theme "Walk with God". The event served as a platform for Sema to call for a "New Vision" to uplift the 24 border villages that serve as the strategic guardians of Nagaland.
In his address, Kikheto Sema highlighted the stark developmental gap in the Northern Sumi area, noting that despite their historical and strategic importance since 1905, these villages remain deprived of basic administrative, educational, and healthcare facilities.
He pointed out the irony that while Aghautio is only minutes away from major hubs in Assam like Titabar and Mariani, it remains hours away from Nagaland's own service centers. "We have guarded the gates of our land for generations," he stated, urging the government to acknowledge this sacrifice by establishing a dedicated administrative headquarters and providing essential infrastructure.
Drawing a profound analogy to the nation of Israel, Kikheto Sema challenged the community to overcome a "deserted mindset." He observed that while Israel transformed a barren desert into a flourishing land through vision and hard work, Nagas sit upon fertile soil but often lack the mental application to make it productive. He proposed a shift toward economic self-reliance through the cultivation of cash crops like betel nuts, Agarwood (Agur), and fruits, specifically targeting the Assam markets during their off-seasons.
He further exhorted families to prioritize investments in their children's education and spiritual upbringing over material status symbols like luxury vehicles.
The Principal Secretary also addressed the role of the Church in social reformation. He called for prudent financial management and a shift in focus toward practical compassion, such as supporting rural healthcare and education. He lauded the sacrifice of local pastors who serve on meager salaries and urged the wider Church and able-bodied citizens to adopt these border areas for development missions.
Emphasizing the theme of "Walk with God," he reminded the youth to distance themselves from social evils and foster peaceful, cooperative relationships with neighboring Lotha and Ao communities to maintain regional tranquility.
The Principal Secretary was accompanied by a distinguished delegation of retired and active officials, including: Shiwoto Wotsa, Rtd. DIG Vigilance and President Kohima Sumi Hoho; Tsashika Wotsa, Rtd. Chief Engineer, PWD; Lujeka Assumi, Associate Pastor, SBCK, and Kughavi Chisho, Associate Pastor SBCK.
During the event, Vihoto Tuccu, Field Secretary of the Nagaland Sumi Baptist Akukuhou Kuqhakulu (NSBAK), expressed gratitude to the Principal Secretary. He lauded Sema’s "tireless contribution" and credited him for providing a roadmap that successfully bridges the gap between modern administrative growth and the traditional spiritual values that define the Naga identity.
The program also featured a sermon by Khehoto Yeptho, Evangelist, further reinforcing the spiritual foundations of the day's message.
(DIPR)
