The 18th Peace Knit Fest 2025, organized by Peace Channel and the North East Institute of Social Sciences and Research (NEISSR) in collaboration with the North Eastern Diocesan Social Service Society (NEDSSS), concluded on September 21 at the Peace Centre, 7th Mile, Chümoukedima. The event was held in observance of the International Day of Peace and was graced by Most Rev. Dr. James Thoppil, Bishop of Kohima, as the Chief Guest. Other dignitaries present included Shri. Videlalie Zashumo, IPS, Inspector General of Police (Admin), Shri Kekongchim Yimkhiung, State Information Commissioner and others. On the occasion, Shri. Nosazol Charles Chaya, State Information Commissioner, Nagaland Information Commission and Advisor, Catholic Association of Nagaland (CAN) was conferred the Peace Award 2025.
In his address, Most Rev. Dr. James Thoppil emphasized that peacemaking is not an option but a divine mission, affirming that peace is upheld by every religion and must be pursued as a universal responsibility. He highlighted that peacebuilding is a gradual and continuous process that begins with small steps, much like nurturing a tree that requires care and patience to bear fruit. Stressing that peace must involve collective participation of churches, communities, leaders, and individuals, he reminded all that with God’s grace and sincere effort, peace is possible. Concluding, he urged everyone to be everyday agents of peace, building character and habits rooted in harmony.
Peace Award recipient Shri. Nosazol Charles Chaya reflected on the honor as a learning step, noting that even the smallest gesture of kindness creates ripples of positive change. He emphasized honesty, forgiveness, and reconciliation over conflict and urged the youth to be torchbearers of peace and justice. Appreciating the visionary leadership of Dr. Fr. C. P. Anto and the Peace Channel team, he acknowledged their tireless efforts in transforming Peace Channel into a living movement of peace.
A moving testimony was shared by Mr. Aloka Yeptho, a Peace Club member, who recounted how the platform provided him opportunities for workshops, dialogue, and mediation, shaping his leadership skills and perspective on empathy and compassion.
On the occasion, Dr. Fr. C. P. Anto, Director of Peace Channel and Principal of NEISSR, urged the Government of Nagaland to establish a Commission for Peace and Justice to build sustainable communities rooted in dialogue and harmony. Acknowledging the invaluable support of religious leaders since Peace Channel’s inception, he reaffirmed that religion should unite people in peace, not divide them.
The event saw launching of the Peace Channel App and a Peace Certificate Course. The fest witnessed a variety of peace-centered activities, including interfaith dialogue, peace celebrations, peer mediation sessions, mental health awareness programs, cultural presentations, and competitions. The much-awaited titles of the evening, Miss Peace Knit and Mr. Peace Knit, were awarded to Ms. Mughashi Achumi of St. Mary Hr. Sec. School, Padumpukhuri and Mr. Bokivi Yeptho of St. Joseph University, Chümoukedima, respectively.
The program also featured invocation by Fr. Chacko Karinthayil, Governing Board Member, NEISSR, cultural songs by NEISSR’s Cultural Club and the Yimkhiung Cultural Team, and a special folk presentation by the Sumi group. The Peace Award ceremony was hosted by Ms. Elizabeth Pojar, Assistant Professor, while Mr. James Phanungkiu, Convenor, delivered the vote of thanks. The event was moderated by Ms. Tshekukhro-u Akami.
The 18th Peace Knit Fest 2025 concluded with renewed calls for fostering compassion, inclusivity, and justice, reminding all participants that peace begins with each individual and extends to families, communities, and the world at large.
https://www.easternmirrornagaland.com/nosazol-charles-chaya-receives-peace-award-2025