The monthly meeting of the Kohima District Planning and Development Board (DPDB) was held on May 15 at DPDB Hall, Kohima, under the chairmanship of Deputy Commissioner, B. Henok Buchem.
The session marked a significant transition in leadership, with the formal induction of Kevipodi Sophie, MLA, as the new Chairman of the Kohima DPDB.
In his speech, Buchem extended his appreciation to the outgoing Chairman, Dr. Tseilhoutuo Rhutso, MLA, for his leadership and invaluable contributions to the board. Welcoming the new Chairman, Buchem expressed confidence in continued development and progress under MLA Sophie’s guidance.
Newly elected Chairman Sophie, in his address, thanked the state government for the trust placed in him and assured full support to the officers in implementing government policies. He called for sincerity and honesty among the officials and affirmed his commitment to supporting all developmental initiatives.
According to DIPR, among the key agenda items discussed was the proposal to upgrade GMS Daklane to a Government High School. Based on the report from DEO Kohima, confirming that all required criteria had been met, the Board unanimously agreed to recommend the proposal.
A comprehensive PowerPoint presentation was delivered by Tourist Officer Abigail Solo of the Tourism Department. She shared insights on current tourist data, pointing out that Kohima has 40 hotels and 91 homestays, with growing pressure on infrastructure.
She stressed the importance of privatization and communitization of tourism assets, and provided updates on several key tourism projects. She also shared updates on the 25th Hornbill Festival and ongoing projects including the Enopen Resort and Services Block at Khonoma, Kohima View Point and Aradura Hills trekking route, The Dawn Chalet at Chakhabama, and eco-tourism development at Jotsoma.
Abigail appealed for stronger coordination and strategic support to address challenges facing the department. DC Buchem noted the lack of a tourist-friendly environment in some areas and urged the department to initiate skill development programs. He also emphasized the need for all departments to regularly update their websites and asked the relevant department to repair damaged drainage covers in Kohima town, citing risks to commuters.
New members welcomed to the board included the Chairman of Kohima Municipal Council, President of the Angami Public Organisation, ADC Kohima Hq Ruopfükuotuo Noudi, Assistant Controller LM&CP Shiekhozo Rhakho, SDO (C) Sechü-Subza Imliakum Sanglir, and SDO (C) Jakhama Vineikho Tetso.
The Social Welfare Department has been entrusted with the next PowerPoint presentation. A highlight of the meeting was the felicitation of Riya Gupta, the HSLC topper among Government High Schools in Kohima District.