Late AM Gokhale’s family honoured as permanent citizens of Kütsapo village

In recognition of the contribution made by former chief secretary Nagaland late A.M. Gokhale IAS (Retd) for his pivotal role in launching the historic Village Development Board (VDB) first at Kütsapo village which catapulted the village’s economy, the Kütsapo village honoured the pioneer of VDB by bestowing permanent Citizenship Certificate on late AM Gokhale and his family on November 20, 2023.

Savita Gokhale, the wife of late AM Gokhale, was honoured with the recognition during her visit to Kutsapo Village, Phek. Savita Gokhale, in her address at the Gokhale Memorial Hall Kütsapo, recalled that her late husband’s dedication for educating villagers and the significance of Local Self-Government. She said her late husband’ tireless efforts were aimed at trying to improve the economic conditions of Nagaland’s villagers
through the independent implementation of schemes and projects.

The ‘Citizenship Certificate’, awarded by the Kutsapo Village Council and the general public, designated the generational Gokhale family as “Permanent Members/Citizens” of Kutsapo Village in acknowledgment of their enduring contributions.

Highlighting the history, the first VDB secretary Dukhuyi Vadeo said that the concept of VDB was formed keeping in mind the importance of self-governance. He said that the concept was first developed and initiated by late Vamuzo Phesao the then chief minister and late AM Gokhale IAS (Retd) then DC Phek. Accordingly, after the general meeting held at Rusozou khel on December 11, 1976 the first VDB was established.

Earlier, the welcome address was delivered by ex-VDB secretary Vechikhoyi Lohe, while invocation was said by assistant pastor N Vekuto Rhakho. The event was chaired by VCC Kutsapo, K. Shievotso Rhakho.