Kohima: Nagaland mourned the passing of Naga Mothers’ Association (NMA) president Vilanuo Angela Yhome on Friday, with Governor Nand Kishore Yadav, Deputy Chief Minister T.R. Zeliang and several organisations paying tribute to her decades of service in peacebuilding, women’s empowerment and community welfare.
In a condolence message, Governor Nand Kishore Yadav said he was saddened by the sudden demise of Yhome, describing her as a leader whose unwavering commitment and dedicated service left a lasting impact on society.
“Late Ms. Vilanuo Angela Yhome will be remembered for her unwavering commitment, dedicated service and invaluable contributions to the welfare of the community. Her leadership, compassion and tireless efforts have left a lasting impact on the lives of many, and her absence will be deeply felt,” the Governor said.
On behalf of the people of Nagaland and in his personal capacity, Yadav conveyed his condolences to the bereaved family, members of the Naga Mothers’ Association and all those whose lives she touched.
“May the Almighty grant them strength and solace to bear this irreparable loss. May her soul rest in peace,” he added.
Deputy Chief Minister T.R. Zeliang also expressed grief over her demise in a post on X.
“Deeply saddened by the passing of Smti. Vilanuo Angela Yhome, President of the Naga Mothers’ Association. Her unwavering dedication to public service and the welfare of society will always be remembered. My heartfelt condolences to her family, the Naga Mothers’ Association, and all who mourn this great loss. May her noble soul rest in eternal peace,” he wrote.
Born on June 5, 1959, in Kohima Village, Yhome was the daughter of late Zetseilie Yhome and late Zakietuoü Yhome. She studied at Little Flower School, Kohima, graduated from Kohima College and later obtained a Bachelor of Education degree from NCERT. After a career in teaching and educational administration, she retired from government service.
Beyond her role as NMA president, Yhome held several leadership positions in social, church and community organisations. She served as a board member of the Cradle Ridge Centre and was a long-time member of the Naga Mothers Peace Committee, where she played an active role in peace initiatives for the Naga people.
She also served as general secretary of the Tenyimia Women Union, was an active member of the Global Naga Forum, and held the positions of president and later adviser of the Nagaland Catholic Women Association.
Her contributions extended to the Angami Catholic Union Bible Review Committee, the Council of Catholic Women of India, and the Lhisema Council of Kohima Village, where she became the first woman to serve as joint secretary and later as secretary.
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Yhome also served the Catholic Association of Nagaland (CAN) as joint secretary and general secretary between 2000 and 2003, and later as its Chief Election Commissioner during 2015-16.
Widely respected for her advocacy for women’s rights, peacebuilding and social justice, Yhome’s passing marks the end of a distinguished career in public and community service in Nagaland.
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