The Federation of Nagaland State Engineering Service Associations (FONSESA) held its National Engineers’ Day Celebration cum Biennial General Conference 2026 at the Capital Convention Centre, Kohima on September 15. The celebration was held on the theme, “Engineering Excellence for a Sustainable and Technological Development.”
MLA, Dr Tseilhoutuo Rhutso, who graced the occasion as the Special Guest, recalled the contributions and legacy of Sir M Visvesvaraya, whose life, he said, was remembered not for his wealth but for his achievements and service to society.
Speaking on the significance of Engineers’ Day, Dr Rhutso said that no society could progress towards sustainable development without the involvement of engineers. He emphasised the importance of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics in driving sustainable development and urged senior professionals to inspire and guide the younger generation.
Drawing a parallel between engineering and the medical profession, he said both professions ultimately worked towards the comfort and well-being of humanity. He highlighted how various medical technologies and instruments were products of engineering innovation, stressing the need for greater convergence among professions.
Dr Rhutso further called for greater involvement of technical professionals in administration, stating that their expertise could improve the planning and implementation of development projects. He said Nagaland needed its best minds to contribute to governance and development.
He urged engineers and other professionals to use their knowledge and capabilities for the betterment of society, guide younger professionals to excel beyond their predecessors, and leave behind a meaningful legacy.
Er Fineson Pojar, in his address, briefly recalled M Visvesvaraya’s contributions, noting that he was born on September 15, 1861, and was honoured with the Bharat Ratna in 1955.
The FONSESA President highlighted the importance of dynamic and issue-based leadership that speaks for Nagaland as a whole rather than being confined to individual constituencies. He urged aspiring leaders to uphold a broader vision and work towards building a developed and united Nagaland.
Coming to FONSESA, he paid tribute to its pioneers for their farsighted vision in bringing engineers from different disciplines and areas of expertise onto a common platform to share knowledge, encourage one another and improve proficiency in public service.
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He stressed that professional contribution should not end with retirement and that engineers can continue to add value to society through the knowledge and systems they help build during their service. He reminded the gathering that no contribution is too small when carried out with dedication and sincerity.
Referring to this year’s theme of engineering excellence for a sustainable and technological development, he urged engineers to make it a driving force in their professional lives and strive towards achieving their collective aspirations.
He said that engineers are the real wealth of a nation, adding that engineers are problem-solvers who build a bridge between science and society and remain an important backbone of nation-building.
He emphasised that FONSESA’s purpose is to bring engineers together and support the government in functioning more effectively and efficiently. He sought the full cooperation of all members in strengthening the association and urged everyone to rise above individual interests and individualism. He called for greater unity, cooperation and professional integrity, reminding the gathering that “united we stand and divided we fall.
The technical presentation on Rooftop Solar (RTS) by APEN under the Nagaland Solar Mission, in convergence with PM-SURYA GHAR: MUFT BIJLI YOJANA, highlighted the benefits of adopting solar energy for household electricity requirements. It was informed that consumers could avail Central and State subsidies covering a substantial portion of the installation cost, with subsidies of ₹53,000 for 1 kW, ₹1.06 lakh for 2 kW and ₹1.35 lakh for 3 kW and above, subject to the scheme provisions.
The presentation also highlighted that consumers could select from 21 empanelled vendors in the State, with the installation process being undertaken by the vendor and the Department of Power, Nagaland. Consumers can apply through the official portal, www.pmsuryaghar.gov.in, using their mobile number, email ID and Consumer ID. The scheme is valid till March 31, 2027.
Welcome address was delivered by the Chairman, Vice President, FONSESA, Er Chirhotho Rasutho, and the presidential address by the President, FONSESA, Er Fineson Pojar. The programme was chaired by Vice President, FONSESA, Er Chirhotho Rasutho and invocation offered by Er N Myingthungo Ngullie, APEN. A special number was presented by Onensangla Lkr (PHED) and the programme ended with a vote of thanks by Vice President, FONSESA, Er Seyievizo Tsükrü.
The business session that followed reviewed the resolutions of the previous conference and deliberated on the agenda. The new office bearers were thereafter declared by the Search Committee.
