Our Correspondent
Kohima | October 4
The government has called for greater and concerted efforts to sustain and develop the ‘symbiotic relationship’ of men and space, men and the land he lives in. Nagaland state today joined the rest of the world in observing World Habitat Day, under the theme ‘Better City, Better Life’ here at Chaü Parking with minister for urban development Dr. Shürhozelie Liezietsü gracing the occasion as the chief guest.
World Habitat Day officially designated by the United Nations, is observed every year on the first Monday of October throughout the world. Since 1986 the event has marked a purpose to reflect on the state of cities and towns, basic human rights or shelter. The day aims to remind the world of its collective responsibility for the habitat of future generations.
Speaking at the occasion, Liezietsü congratulated the department for taking the initiative in organizing the programme, disseminating awareness to the people. He said awareness-creation is critical for improvement of human habitat. Over the past few years, he said, there has been an increased share of the population in the urban areas mainly due to rural-urban migration, in search of employment and better livelihood.
“A combined and concerted effort is of paramount importance, the state government and the local bodies along with active and sustained participation of the citizen need to work in symbiotic relationship to provide the enabling support system; our society will never be great until out towns and cities are great”, commented Liezietsü.
Director for urban development Ken Keditsu in his brief address highlighted the significance of the day. He said World Habitat Day provides an opportunity to reflect on how one can make towns and cities a better place for all. As a part of the occasion, urban development has organized publicity awareness programmes by advertising in local dailies, hoardings and banners for raising awareness; essay competitions, awareness campaigns in the form of radio talks and television shows among others.
With the launch of the Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission (JNNURM) in 2005, the state capital has today added 25 JNNURM buses under the initiative of the ministry of urban development. The buses will be monitored by Unified Metropolitan Transport Authority (UMTA) under the directive of the Deputy Commissioner. The Urban Development officer also informed that, the rate of the buses will be cheaper than the private city buses.
As part of the day’s programme, winners of an essay competition were awarded prizes. Abraham Kath of Mt. Olive College bagged the 1st position and was awarded with a cash prize of `15, 000 and a certificate. Chubabenla M Longkumer of Kohima Science College and Niriezono Punyü of Alder College got the second and third positions, respectively. They were awarded with a certificate and a cash of `10, 000 and `5000, respectively.
Consolation prizes, cash of Rs. 1000 and a certificate were awarded to Niboli of Mt. Olive College, Enino Whiso of Sazolie College and Kikhriezonuo Yore of Sazolie College.
