Union Minister of State George Kurian, Pro Chancellor, NECU, Prof Darlando Khathing, along with the faculty and students of NECU after the inauguration of the Dr Peter Armacost Multi-Purpose Hall in Dimapur on March 1.
Cornerstone laid for North-East Village Retreat during Foundation Day ceremony
Morung Express News
Dimapur | March 1
Union Minister of State for Minority Affairs and Animal Husbandry, Fisheries and Dairying George Kurian on Sunday said peace, preservation of identity and promotion of traditional knowledge are essential for building a prosperous and secure India, while underlining the Centre’s infrastructure and skill development initiatives in the Northeast.
He was addressing students and faculty at NECU’s City Campus at Anchor Complex, Burma Camp, during the university’s Foundation Day programme, which also marked the inauguration of the Dr Peter Armacost Multi-Purpose Hall.
Kurian lauded the university’s emphasis on character-building and value-based education, describing it as “rare in Asia” and crucial for shaping responsible citizens. Stressing the importance of indigenous knowledge systems, he said he hailed from Kerala, “the land of Ayurveda”, and highlighted the need to promote traditional studies and certification of traditional healing practices alongside modern education.
“Peace is not merely an ideal but the foundation for a prosperous and secure India,” he said, adding that strong communities must be built on sound moral values.
Describing the Northeast as a hub of cultural exchange, the minister said development must go hand in hand with safeguarding identity. Referring to initiatives undertaken since 2018 under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he said infrastructure gaps in the region were being systematically addressed.
“In this district alone, 11 projects have been completed, and several others are underway for infrastructure development,” Kurian said, adding that skill training programmes for minority students have been launched, including in Nagaland. He also underscored the importance of digital connectivity, stating that expanding internet access would empower students and better prepare them for emerging opportunities.
Earlier, the minister was accorded a traditional welcome by students in ethnic attire, followed by a cultural dance showcasing the diversity of the Northeast. He unveiled the commemorative plaque of the newly inaugurated hall before proceeding to the formal ceremony.
The programme was chaired by Dr Kangzangding Thou, Director of Academics, NECU, and began with a dedicatory prayer by Rev Dr Bonny Resu, Governing Council Member. Prof Darlando Khathing, Pro-Chancellor, delivered the welcome address, outlining the university’s academic vision and commitment to holistic and inclusive education.
Messages from the family of Dr Peter Armacost, shared by his wife and daughter, recalled his enduring contribution to education. Alemtemshi Jamir, IAS (Retd.), former Chief Secretary of Nagaland and Governing Council Member, reflected on Dr Armacost’s association with NECU.
The event also included the laying of the cornerstone for the NECU North-East Village Retreat, envisioned to reflect the architectural styles and cultural ethos of the region. The programme concluded with a song by students, a vote of thanks by Registrar Vizeto Kin and the National Anthem, in the presence of officials, faculty, students and invited guests.
