Advisor S. Keoshu Yimkhiung with department staff and other officials. (NP)
Department of Youth Resources and Sports (YRS) celebrated advent Christmas at RK Farm, Zhadima, on Monday.
Sharing the season’s greetings, advisor of Youth Resources and Sports (YRS), S. Keoshu Yimkhiung, called on the Nagas to rediscover the true meaning of Christmas and embrace the values of unity, compassion, and gratitude.
Yimkhiung expressed concern over the gradual shift towards nominal Christianity and excessive outward celebrations during the festive season.
He emphasized that Christmas, celebrated for over 2,000 years, was not merely a time for merrymaking, shopping, and gifting. “We need to understand the true essence of Christmas and reflect on what Christ has done for us. We are incomplete without Christ, our saviour,” he said.
Yimkhiung encouraged the department’s employees to extend help to those in need, even in small ways, mentioning that such acts would give true meaning to the occasion. He warned against celebrating Christmas superficially, noting that it dishonors the solemnity and significance of the event.
Touching upon the unity among Nagas, Yimkhiung lamented the growing divisions and self-centered attitudes.
He urged the people to cherish the sacrifices made by their forefathers during the Naga National Movement and to remember the privileges they enjoy today due to those sacrifices. “Our parents walked across the length and breadth of our land for our survival. They chose not to be under Indian rule. Today, we are reaping the fruits of their bloodshed,” he stated.
He also highlighted the importance of respecting the responsibilities entrusted to government employees. He reminded the YRS staff to honor their roles, assist those seeking help, and avoid dishonesty in their work. “Do not misuse the chairs and tables bought with the blood of our forefathers. Respect the department that feeds you and pays your salary. Even after retirement, this job and government will continue to sustain you,” he said.
He further urged the staff to set an example for employees in other departments by upholding Christian values and working with integrity.
“Children of those toiling in search of jobs or resources today may switch places with your children tomorrow if you practice dishonesty,” he warned.
Yimkhiung expressed gratitude to Roko Angami, OSD Sports YRS, for hosting the event at his farm.
Sharing the exhortation, director of Youth Resources and Sports (YRS), Kethosituo Sekhose, reflected on the accomplishments and challenges faced by the department during the year, attributing their progress to divine guidance.
“We have had an eventful year and achieved a lot, although the year is not over yet,” he stated. Sekhose noted that despite the various challenges encountered, it was God’s providence that had brought them through.
He underscored the significance of humility and God’s ability to use seemingly insignificant individuals to fulfill His plans.
Sekhose commended the collective hard work of the YRS team, stating that their dedication had contributed significantly to the department’s achievements. Recognizing outstanding contributions, he announced awards for the best-performing staff members.
The department awardees included Petekhrietuo Sote as Best Multi-Tasking Staff (MTS), Kevisalie Dino as Best Driver, and Vekhozulu Thingo as Best Ministerial Staff. Each recipient was presented with a cash prize for their exemplary service.
Earlier, the programme was chaired by Megolhu Dolie, additional director, YRS, invocation by Vekhozolu Thingo, UDA.
Scripture reading was by Lilo Awomi, LDA, while special number was presented by Thechano Lotha, LDA, Anthony Ngullie, secretary YRS department and Tokavi Zhimomi, LDA. As part of the celebration, the department staff of various branches took part in the futsal and tug-o-war
