Foundation stone laid for DPIN

Foundation stone for Development of Pilgrimage Infrustructure in Nagaland (DPIN) was laid under PRASAD Scheme at Molungkimong village on May 16 by advisor of Tourism, Art and Culture, Khehovi Yepthomi along with minister for Higher Education, Technical Education and Tribal Affairs, Temjen Imna Along.

According to a press release, Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Augmentation Drive (PRASAD) scheme aims at integrated development of pilgrimage destinations to provide complete religious tourism experience. It also aims to enhance tourist attraction by developing world class infrastructure in religious destinations.

It also seeks to promote local art, culture, handicrafts, cuisine etc. and the ministry of tourism provides central financial assistance to state government to promote tourism at identified places and is funded for the projects under PRASAD scheme.

Molungkimong was identified as a place of religious importance and development of pilgrimage infrastructures under PRASAD scheme for the early Christian significance the village holds. The village has monuments for Rev. Dr. E.W. Clark on the site where he stayed, first baptistery, first chapel hall monument, monolith erected in the name of 60 Molungkimong warriors. 

The press release further stated that to begin the project works at the earliest the foundation stone was laid despite the lockdown. The event was witnessed by Molungkimong Baptist church leaders and Molungkimong village council.

Earlier, face masks were distributed to all the attendees and social distancing was also maintained. Minister of Housing and Mechanical, Tongpang Ozukum also attended the programme.