Army Chief General Manoj Naravane, who is on a three-day visit to Northeast, inaugurated a new residential facility at Kohima Orphanage and Destitute Home (KODH) in Kohima on November 25, 2020. Assam Rifles will run this facility.
Assam Rifles organised the construction and furnishing of this facility which presently takes care of 95 children, including 26 girls. These children are also provided education in local schools and colleges. Over the years, Assam Rifles has extended its support to many such social organisations, through various Civic Action projects.
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Earlier, items worth about Rs 4.5 lakh were provided to the orphanage for construction of two toilet blocks, two computers and one television. Some basic rations were also provided in April and June 2020 in order to ensure supply of basic amenities during the pandemic. A medical camp was also organised wherein all children underwent basic tests for health and hygiene, a necessary component for their healthy upbringing.
‘Kohima Orphanage and Destitute Home’ is located on NH-29, about 8 km from Kohima Town. The orphanage was established in 1973, having been founded by a local Mrs Zaputo Angami. She was sometimes referred to as Mother Teresa by the local populace. The home is now run by her daughter Mrs Neibano Angami.
With crowdfunding, the benevolence of various philanthropists, and NGOs like Sunbird Trust headed by Col (Retd) Christopher Rego and the Armed Forces, the orphanage continues to provide a safe haven for the kids.
Provisioning of a new home with requisite educational and sports infrastructure will go a long way in their wellbeing and empowerment.
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