The Morakjo Village today commemorated the inauguration of three major projects– the Morakjo Cultural Heritage Centre & Art Exhibition, Village Approach Road, and Community Hall marking a historic milestone for the village and its people. MLA and Advisor for Agriculture, Mhathung Yanthan graced the occasion as special guest.
The celebration commenced with the formal inauguration of the Morakjo Cultural Heritage Centre and Art Exhibition under the theme “Hands of the People” – Art from the Community, for the Community. The exhibition showcased the works of emerging local artists, Myingthunglo Y Tsopoe and Merilo Y Tsopoe, who shared reflections on their artistic journeys and the value of art in preserving community heritage.
A dedication prayer was offered by Pastor Yankhosao Odyuo of Morakjo Baptist Church, followed by a ribbon-cutting ceremony led by the special guest. The Cultural Heritage Centre was designed by architect OKIRU and executed by the Morakjo Cultural Heritage Club with financial backing from the Department of Art & Culture, Government of Nagaland, along with community-led and in-kind contributions.
Following this, the Morakjo Village Approach Road was officially inaugurated with a prayer by Pastor Phyolumo Odyuo of Morakjo AG Church. The project, developed under the PMAAGSY scheme by the Department of Tribal Affairs, aims to improve rural connectivity in select areas.
The final highlight of the day was the inauguration of the Morakjo Community Hall, architectural designed by Lichan L Odyuo amd constructed under the LADP Iconic Project 2024–25. Rev Tachow Odyuo, Pastor of Morakjo CRC, offered the prayer of dedication.
Addressing the gathering, Advisor Mhathung Yanthan termed the day as a “historic” one for the people of Morakjo, citing the inauguration of not one but three major projects. He commended the architectural excellence and community cooperation behind the Community Hall project, praising the efforts of architect Lichan L Odyuo and the villagers.
“Despite financial constraints, the workmanship here speaks for itself,” he said, expressing hope that the hall would serve as “a house of unity” and collaboration.
Speaking on the Cultural Heritage Centre, Advisor Yanthan acknowledged the execution by the Morakjo Cultural Heritage Club and support from the Department of Art & Culture. He encouraged continued enrichment of the space and stated, “Let this not be a one-time effort—add more, preserve more, and let future generations see what we’ve safeguarded today.”
On the newly inaugurated Approach Road, the Advisor reiterated the importance of infrastructure in development. “With roads come development—better access to healthcare, education, and opportunity,” he remarked, urging villagers to maintain the road well.
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He also addressed the issue of Human-Elephant Conflict (HEC) in the region, stating that while government departments face limitations, peaceful coexistence is vital. He informed that Dr. Rudra, a specialist veterinarian, would soon be visiting to train locals on elephant conflict management. “Let us equip ourselves with knowledge and skill to handle such challenges wisely,” he urged.
Concluding his address, Advisor Yanthan extended gratitude to all stakeholders — from government departments to architects and villagers — emphasising that the day’s celebration was not just about physical infrastructure, but about the unity and resilience that built them. “Continue to walk together in unity, and progress will surely follow,” he added.
Architect Lichan L Odyuo, who designed both the Community Hall and Cultural Heritage Centre, in his brief speech, shared insights into his architectural approach. He highlighted the use of Morak stone — a locally abundant material also used to sharpen machetes — as the primary construction material. “This approach not only reduces cost but honours our identity and surroundings,” he stated. He hoped the project would inspire others to utilise available local resources.
Lichan expressed heartfelt thanks to the villagers for their cooperation and to Advisor Mhathung Yanthan for the trust placed in him. “I thank God, and everyone involved, for their support,” he said.
