On October 11, Süngratsü village, Mokokchung, witnessed the transition of leadership from the Medemsanger Putu to the Mejensanger Putu, as part of a generational change of guard ceremony. This transition, occurring roughly every 30 years, saw the new council assume leadership responsibilities for the next three decades.
During the ceremony, five Zünga (peer groups) comprising over 400 members were inducted into the Mejensanger Putu. Eight Tatars (elders), along with key leaders such as priests from both the Mongsen and Chungli clans, were appointed to lead the village. The morning’s ceremonies were held separately for the Mongsen and Chungli, followed by a combined gathering in the afternoon at Senden Salang.
Addressing the gathering, Sentiyanger, Additional Chief Secretary & Finance Commissioner, commended the new council for their unifying efforts in combining the treasury systems of Mongsen and Chungli. He emphasized the importance of upholding traditions while adapting to modern realities, and stressed that councils rooted in fairness and justice would lead the village to prosperity.
Sentiyanger also addressed the issue of rural-to-urban migration, driven by limited economic opportunities in villages. Highlighting the INR 70 lakhs received annually by the Süngratsü village from government programs, he urged the new leadership to channel these funds into sustainable livelihood schemes to promote local development and curb migration.