🎓🌟 A grand felicitation programme was organised by the Zou Officers’ Welfare Association (ZOWA) in honour of Calvin Ginminlien Zou, who secured an impressive All India Rank (AIR) 134 in the UPSC Civil Services Examination 2025–26, emerging as one of the best performers from Northeast India 🇮🇳✨.
The programme was held at the ZOWA Office, Zomi Colony, from 9:00 AM to 10:30 AM, under the conductorship of Lawrence K. Munluo, Joint Secretary. The event began with an invocation prayer led by Upa Nangkhanlal, Finance Secretary, followed by a warm welcome address delivered by Pi Mannuamching, Chairperson 🙏.
The felicitation ceremony featured presentation of mementos by ZOWA and individual presentations, recognising the remarkable achievement of the young IAS officer 🎖️.
In his speech, Calvin Ginminlien Zou shared a heartfelt message, stating that while the community identifies strongly as Christian and community-oriented, there is often a lack of support for others once success is achieved.
“We call ourselves Christians and we have a community-based society, but when we achieve something big, we tend to forget to help others to become successful. This has to stop. I am not criticizing but I want to change this,” he said.
He further revealed that he has started a Telegram platform to guide aspiring candidates on UPSC-CSE preparation, aiming to prevent mistakes he faced due to lack of mentorship 📚💡.
He emphasized the importance of unity, selflessness, and learning from other communities, particularly citing the Rajasthan tribal Meenas.
Highlighting spiritual values, he added that God must be placed above clans and tribes, quoting Saint Augustine:
“Spread the gospel and if necessary, use works,” stressing that actions should reflect faith and that professions can serve as a ministry ✝️.
He also expressed his vision to build a forum of Christian officers who would lead by example and encourage one another to be witnesses through their lives.
Senior officers of ZOWA shared words of encouragement and advice during the programme 🗣️.
Notable speakers included Pi Mannuamching IAS/DC Pherzawl, Dr. Dongkhanlal, Chairman ZOWA, Associate Professor T. Ginzamang, Lawrence K. Munluo MPS Addl. SP/Churachandpur, Dr. Hegin Tungdim, and others.
The programme also included a discussion and interaction session, followed by a vote of thanks delivered by Pu Ginjamang T. Zomi, Vice-Chairman.
The event concluded with a benediction prayer by Upa Dongkhanlal Taithul, Advisor 🙌.
The felicitation programme ended on a warm note with high tea, celebrating not just an individual achievement but a collective pride and inspiration for the community ☕🎉.
