Shamator, May 7: A formal ceremony marking the renaming of Sotokur village to Thsotoku was held at Thsotoku village in Nagaland’s Shamator district on Thursday.
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| Officials, village leaders and residents pose during the formal ceremony marking the renaming of Sotokur village as Thsotoku in Shamator district, Nagaland, on Wednesday. (Image: DIPR Nagaland) |
The programme was inaugurated by Mekato J. Aye, Extra Assistant Commissioner (EAC) Shamator and Additional Charge of Thsotoku Circle.
According to officials, the renaming of the village was carried out in accordance with a government order following due process and collective representation from the community.
During the programme, the EAC laid the foundation stones for a monolith commemorating the village’s new name and for the newly established Thsotoku Citizen Union Office.
The event was attended by community members and leaders from neighbouring villages, reflecting broad public participation and support.
Addressing the gathering, Mekato J. Aye congratulated the village council and community leaders for their efforts in preserving and asserting the identity of the village.
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He stated that names are not merely labels but symbols of memory, belonging and identity. Referring to the meaning of “Thsotoku,” which translates to “elephant’s head,” he said the elephant symbolises strength, wisdom and steady progress, and expressed hope that the village would embody these qualities.
The EAC also encouraged residents to move forward with unity, responsibility and shared progress while preserving their roots and traditions.
Short speeches were also delivered by Tokimong, Head GB; Kiuthsang, VCC of Thsotoku; and Kheanjimong, President of the Citizen Union. Speakers narrated that the village name originated nearly 400 to 500 years ago after early settlers observed a wooden log resembling an elephant’s head.
The programme also included a prayer by Pastor K. Yimto.
During the event, the village’s lone successful HSLC candidate after a decade was felicitated by the EAC, marking a significant achievement for the community and reflecting recent efforts to improve educational participation.
The ceremony concluded with renewed commitment among villagers towards unity, identity and development.
