The launching programme for the adoption of Ward 16 comprising Lerie, Lerie Chazou, New Minister’s Hill and New Reserve Colony under the Ward Adoption Programme (2025-26) of the District Planning and Development Board (DPDB), Kohima for the 9th Kohima Town Assembly Constituency was held at Lerie Junction Waiting Shed, Kohima on June 10, 2026.
Addressing the gathering, MLA Dr. Tseilhoutuo Rhutso acknowledged the limited resources available under the Ward Adoption Programme but appreciated the efforts of the various departments for coming together and contributing their part towards carrying out developmental and welfare activities in the ward, which would help bring meaningful improvements to the community.
Describing Ward 16 as the backbone of the constituency, Dr. Rhutso thanked the residents for their continued support and cooperation. Assuring his continued support, he said he would contribute to the best of his ability towards the development of the ward and other areas of Kohima. He further informed that a mega medical camp would be organised in the ward on June 27 and invited all residents to avail themselves of the services.
Delivering the keynote address, EAC Sadar and Convener of the Ward Adoption Committee, Dr. Riku Khutso, said the Ward Adoption Programme is a unique initiative of DPDB Kohima under which various departments undertake developmental and welfare activities in selected wards every year. He stated that Lerie Ward was fortunate to have active cooperation between community leaders and ward representatives, which would contribute to the success of the programme.
Presenting the Action Plan for 2025-26, Dr. Khutso informed that departments would undertake various activities including registration of AAY and PHH beneficiaries under NFSA, e-KYC updation, digital registration and awareness on births and deaths, restoration of water supply facilities, installation of footpath railings, sports coaching camps, PM SVANidhi registration drives, solid waste management awareness campaigns, financial literacy programmes, GST registration camps for entrepreneurs and consumer rights awareness programmes. Kohima College will also conduct skill classes in government schools and undertake beautification of the Lerie Heliport.
Additional initiatives include installation of solar street lights in all colonies and a mega health camp. Dr. Khutso called for active participation and contribution from youths, women and community leaders for the successful implementation of the programme.
Ward Councillor Ane-Ü Khaming expressed gratitude to DPDB Kohima, the MLA and the Ward Adoption Committee for selecting the ward under the programme. She described the initiative as a commendable step towards strengthening grassroots development and improving the welfare of the ward community.
Speaking on behalf of the ward, Chairman, New Reserve Colony, Vikehiekho Kintso, said Ward 16 is the largest ward comprising four colonies and assured full support and cooperation from the residents to all departments implementing activities under the programme.
The programme was chaired by Principal, Kohima College, Dr. Vitsosie Vupru, while the closing prayer was pronounced by Treasurer, Lerie Council, Orenthung.
(Molungnenla, IA Kohima)
