The people of Sanphure village today re-dedicated their village to Christ and also declared the village an ‘alcohol free village’.

A procession with people singing gospel hymns was organised from the village to the village gate. It was led by Sepikyu Sangtam, Sanphure Village Council Chairman, along with representatives from United Sangtam Likhüm Pumji (USLP), United Sangtam Baptist Lithro Ashimukhong (USBLA) and Akehda Sangtamlarü Thsimüjüng (AST).

Villagers of Sanphure and dignitaries walking and singing gospel hymns on their way to the village gate on 9 October 2022.

On reaching the village gate, two signboards with the writings ‘Christ is the Head of the United Sangtam Heritage Village Sanphure’ and ‘Alcohol Free Zone’ were jointly unveiled by Rev Y. Imtiba Sangtam, executive secretary USLB, Apila, president AST and Kipitong, vice president Likhüm Pumjü.

Sepikyu Sangtam, VCC of the heritage village, told Nagaland Tribune that the village is commiting itself anew to Christ because of the blessings that God has been bestowing upon the village. He added that he believed his co-villagers will set a good example by adhering to the new rules.

The chairman also expressed his appreciation to USLP and USBLA, the apex Sangtam tribal and church bodies for their dedication and support towards the village’s recognition.

Sanphure village, located 26 kilometres from Kiphire, was declared United Sangtam Heritage Village on 3 June 2022.

The village is famous for its salt cakes. There are over thirty specific places around the river Tsülote where salt is made.

Rev Y Imtiba Sangtam, executive secretary USLB, asking for God’s blessings at the United Sangtam Heritage Village gate at Sanphure on 9 October 2022.