The 11th Peren District Inter-Departmental Tournament, organized by the District Planning & Development Board (DPDB), Peren, commenced at the Indoor Badminton Stadium, Jalukie Town, Peren on November 12. The opening ceremony was graced by Deputy Commissioner, Peren, Hiazu Meru as the special guest and chaired by SDO (C) Peren HQ, Sentilong Ozukum.
In his inaugural address, Meru highlighted that Nagaland’s economy is largely a salaried economy driven mainly by the government employees, with limited industries, factories, and multinational companies. Citing the 2011 Census, he stated that Nagaland, with a population of about 19 lakh and around 1.25 lakh government servants, has the highest ratio of government employees in the country.
Comparing this with Meghalaya, where fewer government servants are employed despite a similar population and where many locals are engaged in farming, entrepreneurship, and other business ventures, Meru encouraged government servants to take inspiration from such examples and perform their duties sincerely so that the state can progress through accountability, dedication, and hard work.
Referring to the Prime Minister’s vision of Viksit Bharat @2047, he said India is on its way to becoming one of the largest economies in the world, and urged all government servants to contribute meaningfully toward national and state development.
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Reminding that government employees are key stakeholders in the district’s progress, he appealed for sincerity and discipline in their official duties. While acknowledging the importance of social obligations in Naga society, he advised that such commitments should not hinder one’s responsibilities at the workplace.
Highlighting the values of the tournament, Meru stated that the discipline, teamwork, and hard work demonstrated in sports should also be reflected in the professional conduct of government employees.
During the programme, the Deputy Commissioner also handed over sports materials provided by the District Sports Officer, Peren, to the Principal of Peren Government College.
The opening programme began with an invocation by Pastor of District HQ Fellowship, Nlumbui, followed by a welcome address delivered by Additional Deputy Commissioner Peren, D. Robin. A special number was also presented by the District HQ Choir, adding a musical touch to the event, while District Sports Officer, Wutsutho, administered the oath-taking to the participants. The special guest then declared the tournament open.
The three-day tournament from November 12 to 14, features participation from 41 departments competing in various disciplines aimed at fostering unity, camaraderie, and sportsmanship among government employees of the district.
