‘Nagaland needs its best minds in governance’

FONSESA celebrates Engineers’ Day with focus on sustainable development

Kohima, September 15 (MExN): Nagaland needed its best minds to contribute to governance and development, MLA Dr Tseilhoutuo Rhutso said on Tuesday, stressing, “No society can progress towards sustainable development without the involvement of engineers.” 

He was addressing the National Engineers’ Day Celebration cum Biennial General Conference 2026 of the Federation of Nagaland State Engineering Service Associations (FONSESA) at the Capital Convention Centre, Kohima. The event was held on the theme “Engineering Excellence for a Sustainable and Technological Development.”

Dr Rhutso, the special guest at the event, recalled the contributions and legacy of Sir M Visvesvaraya, whose life, he said, was remembered not for his wealth but for his achievements and service to society.

The MLA emphasised the importance of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) in driving sustainable development and urged senior professionals to inspire and guide the younger generation.

Drawing a parallel between engineering and the medical profession, he said both ultimately worked towards the comfort and well-being of humanity. He highlighted how various medical technologies and instruments were products of engineering innovation, stressing the need for greater convergence among professions.

Dr Rhutso further called for greater involvement of technical professionals in administration, stating that their expertise could improve the planning and implementation of development projects.

He urged engineers and other professionals to use their knowledge and capabilities for the betterment of society, guide younger professionals to excel beyond their predecessors, and leave behind a meaningful legacy. 

FONSESA President Er Fineson Pojar in his address called for dynamic, issue-based leadership that represents Nagaland as a whole, not just individual constituencies. He urged aspiring leaders to embrace a broader vision for a developed, united Nagaland.

He stressed that professional contribution should not end at retirement, noting that engineers can continue serving society through the knowledge and systems they build. No contribution is too small if done with dedication and sincerity, he said.

Speaking on this year’s theme, Er Pojar encouraged engineers to let it drive their professional lives. He described engineers as a nation’s real wealth-problem-solvers who bridge science and society and remain a backbone of nation-building.

He said FONSESA exists to unite engineers and help government function more effectively, urging members to rise above individual interests and strengthen the association through unity, cooperation and professional integrity. “United we stand and divided we fall,” he reminded the gathering.

A technical presentation by APEN on Rooftop Solar (RTS) under the Nagaland Solar Mission, in convergence with PM-SURYA GHAR: MUFT BIJLI YOJANA, highlighted the benefits of solar energy for household electricity needs.

Consumers can avail Central and State subsidies covering a substantial portion of installation costs: Rs 53,000 for 1 kW, Rs 1.06 lakh for 2 kW, and Rs 1.35 lakh for 3 kW and above, subject to scheme provisions.

Applicants may choose from 21 empanelled vendors in the State, with installation carried out by the vendor and the Department of Power, Nagaland. Applications can be submitted through www.pmsuryaghar.gov.in using a mobile number, email ID and Consumer ID. The scheme is valid till March 31, 2027.

FONSESA Vice President Er Chirhotho Rasutho delivered the welcome address and chaired the programme. Er N Myingthungo Ngullie, APEN, gave the invocation, Onensangla Lkr (PHED) presented a special number, and Vice President Er Seyievizo Tsükrü offered the vote of thanks. The business session reviewed previous conference resolutions and discussed the agenda, after which the Search Committee declared the new office bearers.