Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio celebrated the 50th anniversary of his political carreer on February 18, 2025 at Tsiesema Basa Village which also coincidentally celebrated its 50th anniversary on the same day.
As a gesture of appreciation, the Tsiesema Basa Women’s Organization presented the Chief Minister with 50 baskets of rice grains, symbolizing 50 years of dedicated service to the people.
Gracing the Golden jubilee celebration of the Village as the Special Guest, Rio reflected on the village’s journey, emphasizing that reaching 50 years is a remarkable achievement made possible by God’s blessings and the visionary leadership of their forefathers. He urged the youth to cherish and uphold the hard work and sacrifices of their ancestors, which laid the foundation for the village’s progress.
Rio expressed gratitude to Tsiesema Basa Village for honoring him on the same day as his 50th anniversary in politics and for their steadfast support throughout his political career and reaffirmed his government’s commitment to advancing development in Nagaland. The Chief Minister acknowledged that progress has been hampered by the unresolved political issue with the Government of India (GoI). Despite this, he assured the people that efforts are ongoing to find an early resolution and stressed the importance of unity, peace, and harmony among the Naga people, urging them to recognize and preserve their unique identity.
Rio also addressed challenges posed by the reinstatement of the Protected Area Regime and disruptions caused by the Free Movement Regime in border areas. He reiterated his government’s dedication to addressing these issues through thorough discussions and understanding. To demonstrate unity and a collective voice, he highlighted how the 60 legislators came together to form an opposition-less government, advocating for an early solution to the Naga political issue.
Reflecting on Nagaland’s history, Rio noted that even during British rule, Naga customary laws, identity, and traditions remained intact and preserved, and called for the continued preservation of these rich cultural heritages, lamenting that while outsiders recognize Naga uniqueness, Nagas themselves often overlook it.
On the political front, Rio pointed out that regional parties in Nagaland have historically struggled to complete a full 5-year term due to interference from the Indian Government. However, when regional parties align with national parties, they have been able to achieve this milestone.
Rio highlighted key government initiatives, including the Chief Minister Health Insurance Scheme (CMHIS), which provides accessible and affordable healthcare through 65 empaneled hospitals in Nagaland and 64 outside the state. While acknowledging challenges such as fraudulent claims, he urged people to use the scheme responsibly to ensure its sustainability.
He also mentioned the Chief Minister Micro-Finance Scheme, which offers financial assistance of up to INR 15 lakh (extendable to INR 50 lakh) to support Self-Help Groups (SHGs), farmers, and entrepreneurs, fostering economic growth and self-reliance.
On the Jal Jeevan Mission, Rio reported that 92% of households have been covered but criticized villages that submitted false completion reports. He warned that such actions could lead to confusion and delays in development, ultimately harming the villages themselves. Rio advised villagers to plan for sustainable water sources and assured them that he would address the water scarcity issue in Tsiesema Basa.
Rio encouraged the Angami community to leverage their geographical advantage for economic growth through a proactive approach.
Happy to attend the 50th anniversary celebration of Tseisema Basa Village, Kohima. Today the Village has grown from 24 households to 106, reflecting the efforts of the visionary founders to create a vibrant community. pic.twitter.com/lTrEZpvhFB
— Neiphiu Rio (@Neiphiu_Rio) February 18, 2025
Two monoliths were unveiled on the occasion – one commemorating the 50th anniversary of Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio’s political career, unveiled by Village Council Chairman Razoukhrielie Khro, and the other marking the 50th anniversary of Tsiesema Basa Village, unveiled by the Chief Minister himself. The unveiling ceremony was blessed with a prayer by Pastor TBBC Lhoukuolie Khro.
The event began with an invocation by Assistant Pastor TBBC Mezhiivolie Khrabvü, followed by a welcome address by Chairman Razoukhrielie Khro. Greetings were delivered by Chairman Tsiesema Village Khrielezo Khro, and the history of the village’s establishment was narrated by Chüpfhü Khrodi. The program concluded with a vote of thanks by NDPP Village Unit President Ruokuovolie Khro.
