DC Kohima, B Henok Buchem (1st from left) and APO President Thejao Vihienuo (extreme right) handing over a certificate of appreciation to Max Marius Menuse-O and Ketoukholie Whuorie of International Lions Club Kohima, during the felicitation programme at the Office of the Deputy Commissioner, Kohima on August 21.
The Deputy Commissioner (DC), Kohima has felicitated several voluntary organisations with Certificates of Appreciation for their goodwill visits and philanthropic activities undertaken on the occasion of the 80th Independence Day.
The certificates were handed over by Deputy Commissioner, Kohima, B. Henok Buchem and President, Angami Public Organisation (APO), Thejao Vihienuo to the various non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and civil society organisations (CSOs) at the Office of the Deputy Commissioner, Kohima on Friday (August 21, 2026).
The felicitation programme was held exclusively for NGOs and CSOs in recognition of their philanthropic activities undertaken during this year’s Independence Day celebrations.
It is said to be the first time that the government has recognised philanthropic activities carried out by voluntary organisations.
Addressing the programme, Deputy Commissioner B. Henok Buchem appreciated the social service organisations who devoted time and resources to reach out to the disadvantaged groups.
“Visit to older persons, family in distress, vulnerable children, disability, care for the sick or simply an act of listening to someone who felt alone or forgotten… this is humanity,” the DC said.
He said the administration ensures well-being of all but it alone cannot do so, and only in partnership with all and through philanthropic work can an inclusive society be achieved. “You have demonstrated precisely that spirit,” he said.
Buchem said the administration had identified individuals who are often overlooked, and the philanthropic organisations have reached out to those who felt neglected and isolated, for which he expressed his gratitude.
The official said Independence Day also reminds every citizen of their responsibility in line with the aspirations of the freedom fighters and that extending help to the helpless would contribute to the growth of the economy, adding that it should not be seen merely as an act of charity but as a duty of every citizen.
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The DC said the administration must work closely with civil societies as they have a better understanding of their communities, enabling the administration to extend better support, and urged the voluntary organisations to continue their genuine efforts in facilitating those in need.
Also speaking on the occasion, APO President Thejao Vihienuo lauded the DC for recognising NGOs and CSOs for extending help to the less privileged on the occasion of Independence Day.
“True kindness is given to someone who cannot return it back to you,” he said, adding that for many years, voluntary organisations have been extending kindness in different ways to the homes of the less privileged.
He said that though many charitable organisations in Kohima may be small, they have been playing a commendable role in their own way, emphasising the importance of spreading the message of Independence Day to those who may not fully understand it.
He further said that recognition should not be seen as the end but as encouragement to continue reaching out while thanking all for their sacrifices for the people of Kohima over the years and wishing the voluntary organisations to scale greater heights.
Several NGOs and CSOs also shared their activities during the programme and said they felt privileged and honoured, as well as encouraged to be recognised for their service to society.
Er Seyiekhrietuo Solo, SDO (C) Kohima chaired the programme while the vote of thanks was proposed by Ruopfukuotuo Noudi, Additional Deputy Commissioner, Kohima.
