A book launch ceremony for two new publications authored by Rev. Dr. Yanbemo Lotha was held on April 13, 2026, at Lotha Baptist Church, Dimapur, in the presence of church leaders, scholars, officials, and invited guests.
The book launch was carried out by Advisor for Agriculture, Mhathung Yanthan, who attended the programme as the special guest. Addressing the gathering, he lauded the author for his sacrifice, determination, and dedication in pursuing literary work despite his busy schedule and active involvement in extending support to those in need during the Covid-19 pandemic. He described book writing as a “special gift from God” that demands discipline, preservation of knowledge, research, and dedicated effort.
He further noted that with the government approving the introduction of local languages in academics, the time had come for Lotha writers to produce more books that could eventually be inducted at the degree level. Stressing the importance of maintaining clarity and standardization in literature, he said literature boards must be consulted before the release of books to avoid confusion among younger learners.
Encouraging the younger generation to cultivate reading habits, Yanthan said that reading sharpens the mind and intellect, adding that books remain more enriching and engaging than mobile phones. He also appealed to the gathering to purchase the newly released books as a way of encouraging writers and inspiring more individuals to contribute to literature.
The two books released highlight important aspects of Naga society—one documenting the experiences and rebuilding journeys of returnees in the aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic, and the other contributing to the preservation and promotion of the Lotha language through conversational learning.
Principal Secretary, Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Fisheries & Aquatic Resources, and Parliamentary Affairs, Y. Kikheto sema, IAS shared a note of concern during the COVID crisis management in Dimapur. He recalled how the State Government, following the nationwide lockdown in 2020, set up a special team to manage the return of stranded citizens. He highlighted that 52 quarantine centres with around 4,000 beds were established to accommodate nearly 65 percent of the returnees. The first special train, carrying 2,469 returnees from Chennai, arrived on May 22, 2020, followed by several more trains, buses, and a flight. In total, around 17,000 returnees were received in Dimapur within 28 days.
He acknowledged the dedicated service of Rev. Dr. Yanbemo Lotha, describing him as a “Man of Action” who stood firmly with the core team during both the first and second waves of the pandemic. The crisis, he said, was overcome through the “4 Cs” — Cooperation, Coordination, Confidence, and Contribution. Speaking on the significance of the newly released book, Sema said the publication captures the journeys of those who became “returnees” during the pandemic and documents the untold stories of compassion, resilience, and sacrifice.
He stated that the book serves as an important record of the time when countless people faced uncertainty and hardship, ensuring that future generations will remember the sacrifices made by the Covid warriors.
The two books launched were “Basic Lotha (Kyong Yi) English Yilanglita (Conversation)” and “The Naga Returnees: Rebuilding Lives (Post Covid-19 Pandemic)”, highlighting both the importance of language preservation and the lived experiences of Naga returnees in the aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic.
The first book, “The Naga Returnees: Rebuilding Lives (Post Covid-19 Pandemic), the core genre and thematic essence of the book was presented by Dr. S. Ekonthung Ezung, Associate Professor, ETC Jorhat, who expressed deep appreciation for the author and described the occasion as a rare and significant milestone, stating that the release of two books by a single author on the same day was a remarkable achievement, particularly in a context where literary contributions are still developing.
Speaking on the book, he said it critically examines the struggles faced by returnees during the pandemic, including transportation issues, quarantine challenges, access to healthcare, and social stigma, while also raising important theological and practical questions for the Church. He added that the work calls for a shift from fear to compassion, from charity to dignity, and from reactive to proactive ministry. He expressed hope that the book would not only be read but also lived out, transforming the way people think, respond, and care in times of crisis.
The second publication, “Basic Lotha (Kyong Yi) English Yilanglita (Conversation),” was highlighted by Professor Ezamo Murry, former Principal, ETC Jorhat, who emphasise the importance of preserving and promoting the Lotha language through accessible educational resources and conversation-based learning. He noted that the book would serve as a valuable tool in strengthening language skills and encouraging the continued use of the Lotha language among younger generations and learners.
Speaking during the programme, the author, Rev. Dr. Yanbemo Lotha, delivered words of appreciation, expressing gratitude to all guests, scholars, and supporters who contributed to the successful release of the books. The programme concluded with a benediction pronounced by Pastor, Meripeni Lotha.
(Tovikali, IA, Dimapur)
