MLA Dr Tseilhoutuo Rhutso, along with other official during the launch of the Ward Adoption Programme held at Lerie Junction, Kohima on June 10. (DIPR Photo)
Kohima, June 11 (MExN): The District Planning and Development Board (DPDB), Kohima, on June 10 launched the Ward Adoption Programme (2025-26) for Ward 16, comprising Lerie, Lerie Chazou, New Minister’s Hill and New Reserve Colony, under the 9th Kohima Town Assembly Constituency.
The launching programme was held at the Lerie Junction Waiting Shed in Kohima.
Addressing the gathering, MLA Dr Tseilhoutuo Rhutso acknowledged the limited resources available under the Ward Adoption Programme but appreciated the collective efforts of various government departments in undertaking developmental and welfare activities in the ward, which, he said, would 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 commitment to the ward’s development, he said he would contribute to the best of his ability towards the progress of the area and other parts of Kohima.
He also informed that a mega medical camp would be organised in the ward on June 27 and invited 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 said Lerie Ward was fortunate to enjoy active cooperation between community leaders and ward representatives, which would contribute to the successful implementation of the programme.
Presenting the Action Plan for 2025-26, Dr. Khutso said departments would undertake a range of activities, including registration of Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) and Priority Household (PHH) beneficiaries under the National Food Security Act (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.
He added that Kohima College would conduct skill classes in government schools and undertake beautification of the Lerie Heliport.
Other planned initiatives include the installation of solar street lights in all colonies and the organisation of a mega health camp. Dr. Khutso called for active participation 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 significant step towards strengthening grassroots development and improving the welfare of the community.
Speaking on behalf of the ward, Chairman of New Reserve Colony, Vikehiekho Kintso, said Ward 16 is the largest ward comprising four colonies and assured full support and cooperation from residents to all departments implementing activities under the programme.
The programme was chaired by Principal of Kohima College, Dr Vitsosie Vupru, while the closing prayer was pronounced by Lerie Council Treasurer Orenthung.
