The Gorkha Union Mokokchung (GUM) celebrated its Golden Jubilee under the theme “Adapt and Move Forward” on December 16 at the Town Hall, Mokokchung. The program was graced by Nagaland Legislative A ssembly Speaker Sharingain Longkumer as the special guest and Deputy Commissioner Ajit Kumar Verma, as the guest of honour.

Addressing the gathering, Speaker Longkumer said that the history of the Gorkha community in Mokokchung extended far beyond the 50 years of the Gorkha Union, stating that the community has been living in Mokokchung for “exactly 154 years.”

He said areas such as parts of Kumlong, Arkong and Aongza, known as the “Faltu Line”,

witnessed socio-economic upliftment after the arrival of the Gorkha community. He noted that the Gorkhas came with skills in machinery and carpentry and played a key role in infrastructure development, while also contributing to education, sports and governance, eventually becoming an integral part of the government system.

Longkumer said the strong culture of social networking within the Gorkha community had played a central role in building towns like Mokokchung, Zunheboto and Kohima as they are today. He reminded that the Gorkhas had adapted with the Naga communities, and how the Naga communities, in turn, had adapted with them.

On the issue of Register of Indigenous Inhabitants of Nagaland (RIIN) issue, the Speaker said he had “no doubt” on the matter and assured the community of his full support.

“I assure you that you have my full support and I will pursue it,” he said, adding that he

stood by the statement made by Minister K.G. Kenye.

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Linking national development goals with local aspirations, the Speaker spoke on Viksit Bharat 2047 and said the vision must also translate into Viksit Nagaland 2047 and Viksit Mokokchung 2047. He informed that investors had already begun coming to Nagaland to explore opportunities and said preparedness was essential.

Highlighting the sacrifices made by earlier generations in building Mokokchung and Nagaland, Longkumer said development should be based on collective aspiration, not limited to any single tribe or individual. He termed Viksit Nagaland 2047 a clarion call and extended the vision further to Viksit 26 Aonglenden Assembly Constituency 2047.

Seeking cooperation, he appealed to the Gorkha community for support, participation and contribution, particularly in strengthening social networks, skill development and entrepreneurship.

Further calling for unity, Longkumer said that while the Gorkha population in Mokokchung may have reduced in number, “the spirit has not.” “You are part of this Land of Pioneers. Let us move forward together, as we have already adapted with one another,” he said.

A Jubilee Souvenir was formally released by NLA Speaker Sharingain Longkumer during the event under the supervision of Prof. Rev. K. Dhanbir Rai. Following the formal programme, Longkumer also inaugurated an exhibition stall.

Meanwhile, DC Ajit Kumar Verma described the Gorkha community as one of the most patriotic communities, acknowledging their historic and selfless contributions to both Mokokchung and the nation. Highlighting the beauty of unity in diversity, he noted that the Gorkhas are widely regarded as a trustworthy community that has played a significant role in strengthening social harmony.

Verma emphasised the need for reflection and responsibility in nation-building and inter-community harmony, urging the youth to carry forward the legacy of their elders. He encouraged the younger generation to understand and take pride in the values upheld by their community. Observing that a society’s true strength lies in the security, comfort, and well-being of its minorities, he underscored the importance of mutual respect and inclusive growth.

President of the Nagaland Gorkha Association, Nobin Pradhan, stated that the Gorkha community has been able to settle and live in Nagaland for decades due to the love and acceptance shown by the Naga people. He said that Gorkhas in Mokokchung, Kohima and other districts have coexisted peacefully for nearly 50 years, particularly acknowledging the support of the Naga people.

Referring to Mokokchung as “land of pioneers,” Pradhan paid tribute to late Dr. Imkongliba Ao, stating that the land and its people have contributed significantly to shaping Naga society and values.

Commenting on the state government’s proposed Register of Indigenous Inhabitants of Nagaland (RIIN), Pradhan said that the exercise defines indigeneity strictly on the basis of Naga blood lineage, which would remove the “indigenous” status previously available to the Gorkha community. Despite this, he said the Gorkhas continue to expect the same love, respect and acceptance they have received from the Naga people over the years.

Pradhan also referred to assurances given earlier by Minister of Power and government spokesperson KG Kenye during the 75th Platinum Jubilee celebration of the Gorkha Students’ Union in Kohima. He said Kenye had spoken about exploring “special arrangements” for the Gorkha community, including the possibility of providing OBC status, and expressed hope that the government’s assurances would be realised.

Recalling recent developments in the Nagaland Legislative Assembly, Pradhan said the Gorkha community was thankful to an MLA who had raised their concerns during the last assembly session. He stated that the community was fortunate to have leaders who understand the Gorkhas, have worked with them, and are aware of their contributions, expressing confidence that the community would not be let down.

He further said that while the Gorkha community has expectations from Naga society, it also carries responsibilities towards the state. He said Gorkhas across districts must contribute positively to society through honesty, loyalty and service.

Pradhan also noted that during the last election, the contestation of a Gorkha candidate on an NPF ticket had not been opposed, which he said reflected the trust and acceptance extended by the Naga people.

He concluded by stating that while the Gorkha community accepts the decisions of the state

government, it continues to hope that the love and goodwill shown to them over the years will remain unchanged.

Sanjay Rai, Director (Retd.), highlighting the significance of the Golden Jubilee of the Gorkha Union, Mokokchung, said the occasion was not merely a celebration of 50 years but a tribute to the resilience, unity and enduring contributions of the Gorkha community to the social, cultural and economic fabric of Mokokchung. He recalled that the roots of the Gorkha community in the district date back to the 1800s, even before the Second World War, with many forefathers later choosing Mokokchung as their home after military service. Engaged in professions such as farming, masonry, carpentry, cattle rearing and sawing, they gradually assimilated with the Ao community, earning respect and trust through integrity and hard work. Their leadership led to their appointment as Mauzadars and later as Goan Buras, a

practice that continues till today. He reflected upon the strong and reciprocal relationship between the Aos and the Gorkhas share with each other.

Rai further said that over the past five decades, the Gorkha Union, Mokokchung has played a vital role in community service, cultural preservation and social harmony through initiatives in education, welfare and cultural activities. He highlighted key milestones, including the formation of the Gorkha Students Union in 1957, the establishment of a Gorkha Middle School in 1976, and the creation of religious and community institutions. He noted the community’s achievements in academics, professional fields, public service and sports, stating that these accomplishments reflect the community’s commitment to

education, discipline and service. Expressing gratitude to the Nagas, particularly the Ao community, for their continued support and brotherhood, he said the Golden Jubilee serves as a reminder of the shared journey and the responsibility of the younger generation to carry forward the legacy of unity, integrity and service.

The programme was attended by members of the Gorkha community, invited guests, and

representatives from various civil organisation and villages.