Itanagar: The Hija Officers’ Welfare Society (HOWS) recently organised the second leg of its Annual Felicitation Programme here to honour retired officers of the Hija community, reaffirming its commitment to recognising the lifetime contributions of its senior members.
The event, held under the ongoing tenure of the current executive body, was part of a sustained initiative launched after the 7th General Conference of the society held in February 2023.
HOWS general secretary, Pura Baku, while addressing the gathering, described the occasion as a moment of pride and reflection for the community. He stated that the felicitation ceremony serves as an important reminder to the younger generation about the values of public service, dedication, and integrity.
During Saturday’s programme, six retired officers were felicitated for their distinguished service.
Among them were Kago Habung, who served as secretary in the state legislative assembly, Hajo Dodung, former director of the department of textiles and handicrafts, Kime Aya, a retired IAS officer and former DIGP, Pura Tupe, who retired as chief engineer from the department of hydro power development, Dani Yubbe, former director of agriculture and Kime Halyang, who served as deputy superintendent of police.
The society also used the occasion to announce the newly elected executive body for the term 2025–2027.
Taru Majhi was elected as the new chairman, with Dr Dani Kacha as secretary and Dani Tasser as treasurer, ushering in a fresh phase of leadership for the community-based organisation.
According to the bi-ennial report presented during the event, the outgoing leadership under chairman Dani Lampung and secretary Pura Baku had initiated several developmental projects and social interventions. These included the construction of a new water treatment plant at Pakho-Putu, development of a new entry gate along National Highway 13 leading into Hija village, and installation of CCTV cameras across the village during the Myoko Festival preparations.
In addition to infrastructure and security initiatives, the society has also remained active in promoting education. It instituted the Routine Academic Excellence Awards for the academic sessions 2022–23 and 2023–24, aimed at encouraging meritorious students from the community. The leadership also worked closely with youth and community-based organisations to tackle urgent issues such as clean water supply and public welfare.
The second leg of the felicitation programme, marked by traditional rituals and community participation, concluded with renewed commitment by HOWS to preserve the legacy of its senior members while working towards inclusive growth and unity within the Hija community.
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