February 28, Kohima: Nagaland joined the rest of the country in observing National Science Day 2026 under the theme "Women in Science: Catalysing Viksit Bharat".
At the state-level celebration held in Kohima, Principal Secretary I. Himato Zhimomi emphasized the critical role of science and technology in addressing unemployment and driving development.
He urged students and parents to prioritize science education, stating that strengthening scientific capacity is essential for Nagaland's progress and for contributing to a developed India by 2047.
In a first-of-its-kind initiative, the state government awarded prizes under the Nagaland Science Mission, recognizing pioneers in science and technology.
The "Girl Child Award 2025" was awarded to Sashimongla Longkumer of Government High School, Longjang in Mokokchung district for achieving the highest marks in both Science and Mathematics in the Elementary School Leaving Examination for Government Schools.
Under the "Research Grant for Indigenous Nagas of Nagaland", four research and development projects were approved for implementation from 2025 to 2027, each receiving a grant of five lakh rupees. These include:
* Dr. Visesato Mor (NIST, Kohima) for establishing Nagaland's first Galleria mellonella facility for pathogenicity and drug discovery studies.
* Dr. Samadangla Ao (Kohima Science College, Jotsoma) for research on optimizing the jhum agro-ecosystem.
* Dr. Limamanen Phom (Sao Chang College, Tuensang) for a study on ichthyofaunal diversity and ecology of selected rivers in the Noklak district.
* Thsope Medo (Nagaland Science & Technology Council, Kohima) for a pilot study on tree Diversity Mapping and Landscape Assessment of the Japfu Range.
The "Awards for Outstanding Achievement in Science and Technology 2025" were jointly awarded to Dr. Sapu Changkija for his contributions to ethnobotany and sustainable farming systems, and Dr. Vinotsole Khamo for advancing clinical research and medical science facilities in Nagaland.
The "Young Scientist Award 2025" was presented to Dr. Imlisongla Aier, a Ph.D. graduate from IIT Delhi, for her work in clean energy, indoor air quality, and environmental health.
The event also featured exhibition stalls showcasing science and technology-themed innovations by colleges, government departments, and local start-ups.