Officials of CTS with MLA Lima Onen after unveiling the monolith at Chingmei Village in Tuensang on April 11. (Morung Photo)
Morung Express News
Tuensang | April 11
The 18th General Conference of the Changsao Thangjam Setshang (CTS) concluded at Chingmei Village with emphasis on unity, cultural preservation and collective responsibility, alongside recognition of outstanding contributions within the community.
The conference commenced on April 9 with the Executive Session, marked by the unfurling of the flag and chaired by Executive Chairperson L Mongsen and Executive Secretary A Akhumla. The session began with a prayer, followed by the Chang anthem and a welcome address by CTS President Asen C. Chang. Various reports, including general, executive, finance, social and cultural, and property, were presented by office bearers. The house deliberated on resolutions, agenda adoption and constitutional matters before concluding with a benediction.
The inaugural session later in the evening was graced by Imti Choba Chang, MLA, as the inaugural guest. Chaired by Vice President L Nayungsonla and Finance Secretary Moanaro, the programme featured Bible reading and prayer by I Naong Moung, APW, New Chingmei Baptist Lashong, followed by a welcome address from the Chingmei Village Council and a song by Legacy 6 Chingmei.
Short speeches were delivered by Chungke, Head GB, Tamkong Village; Ebesola I Chang, President, TCC&I; C. Pongsu, President, CWS; and Y. Akala, former President, CTS. Speakers stressed grassroots leadership, unity among organisations and the importance of guiding future generations. A special song was presented by Litem Saoshuong Thangjam.
In his address, Imti Choba Chang highlighted the need for collective progress and ensuring better opportunities for the youth. The session concluded with a benediction by Chupola, President, Chingmelen Saoshuong Thangjam.
On April 10, the cultural fiesta was held with Lima Onen Chang, MLA, as the cultural guest. The session was chaired by Chulongla, Social and Cultural Secretary, CTS, and N Asenla, Property Secretary, CTS.
A key highlight was the unveiling of a monolith. The programme included the Chang anthem, invocation by K. Mongkosangla, APW, Nyinyem Baptist Lashong, and a welcome address by CTS President Asen C. Chang, followed by a presentation by Dimapur Chang Saoshuong Thangjam.
Short speeches were delivered by Lithrongla Tongpi Rutsa, Deputy Commissioner, Tuensang; A. Chingmak Chang, President, ENPO; NY Choba, President, Chang Khulei Setshang; and the Village Council Chairman of Sangphur Village. They emphasised cooperation, strengthening of cultural institutions and shared responsibility in development.
Folk fusion performances by Donching Yangmei Saoshuong Thangjam and Hakchang Saoshuong Thangjam added vibrancy to the programme.
Addressing the gathering, Lima Onen Chang stated that culture is embodied in the people and its preservation depends on how traditions are lived and passed on. The session concluded with a benediction by Alemla, President, Chendang Saddle Saoshuong Thangjam.
Cultural displays featured participation from various Saoshuong Thangjam units including Waoshu, Chingmei, Yonyu, Yali, Yimrup and Noksen, showcasing traditional attire and heritage.
The valedictory session in the evening, chaired by CTS General Secretary Sonyasonla and Executive Member Tosangla, marked the culmination of the conference.
A significant highlight of the session was the conferment of the Lt BP Acharya Governor Award for Best Entrepreneur among Chang Women (2023–2026) to Songmo Kendang Chang, Nasen Kundang Chang, Asang Chang and L Dorothy Chang. The citation noted their remarkable achievements and unwavering commitment, recognising them as an inspiration to the community.
The programme also featured the Chang anthem, prayer led by Sungmo Kundang, and short speeches by Yingphe Konyak, President ENWO; Yongchingsonla, former President ENWO; Khaso, Head GB, Noklak Village; and H Yanchu, President CRPO.
Other highlights included a cultural presentation by Maksha Saoshuong Thangjam, addresses by the speaker and convenor of the planning committee, and concluding remarks by Bashang, Pastor, Chingmei Baptist Lashong. The event concluded with a benediction and a closing performance by the Waoshu Pipe Band.
