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{{short description|Capital of Nagaland}}
{{short description|Capital of the Indian state of Nagaland}}
{{about|the capital city of Nagaland|other uses|Kohima (disambiguation)}}
{{about|the capital city of Nagaland|other uses|Kohima (disambiguation)}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=May 2018}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=May 2018}}
{{Use British English|date=January 2022}}
{{Use British English|date=January 2022}}
{{Citation style|date=September 2025}}
{{Infobox settlement
{{Infobox settlement
| name                   = Kohima
| name               = Kohima
| native_name             =
| native_name        = Kewhira
| native_name_lang       =  
| official_name      = City of Kohima
| other_name              =  
| settlement_type   = [[Capital city]] and [[municipality]]
| settlement_type         = [[Capital city]] and [[municipality]]
| image_skyline     = {{multiple image
| image_skyline = {{multiple image
| border = infobox
| border = infobox
| total_width = 290
| total_width = 285
| image_style = border:1;
| image_style = border:1;
| perrow = 1/2/1
| perrow = 1/2/1/2
| image1 = Kohima 24 July 2021.jpeg
| image1 = Kohima skyline from Bara Basti (2024).jpg
| image2 = Kohima_Street_in_December_2016.jpg
| caption1 = Kohima skyline from [[Kohima Village]]
| image3 = PR Hill Junction, Kohima.jpg
| image2 = Kohima War Cemetery (2024).jpg
| image4 = Kohima city.jpg
| caption2 = [[Kohima War Cemetery]]
| image3 = Kohima 9.jpg
| caption3 = [[Kohima Science College]]
| image4 = Vertical cityscape of Kohima (2024).jpg
| caption4 = Vertical cityscape of Kohima
| image5 = View of Naga Bazaar, Kohima (2024).jpg
| caption5 = Naga Bazaar
| image6 = Kohima Jain Temple (2024).jpg
| caption6 = [[Kohima Jain Temple]]
}}
}}
| image_caption = From Top {{small|(Left To Right)}}: Kohima skyline, Kohima street, PHQ Junction, Aradurah Hill
| image_caption     =  
| nickname                =  
| image_seal         =  
| image_seal = Seal of Kohima.png
| image_blank_emblem =  
| seal_type                      =  
| blank_emblem_type = Logo
| image_blank_emblem             = Kohima Smart City Logo.jpg
| motto             = "Work is Pride"
| blank_emblem_type               = Logo
| mapframe = yes
| motto = "Work is Pride"
| mapframe-zoom = 12
| image_map1 =
| mapframe-point = none
{{maplink|frame=yes|frame-width=250|frame-align=center|plain=yes|type=shape|stroke-width=8|stroke-color=#000000|zoom=12|frame-lat=25.67|frame-long=94.10}}
| pushpin_map       = India Nagaland#India
| map_alt                =
| pushpin_label_position = left
| map_caption            =  
| pushpin_map_caption = Location of Kohima in Nagaland
| pushpin_map             = India Nagaland#India#Asia#Earth
| coordinates       = {{coord|25.67|N|94.10|E|region:IN|display=inline,title}}
| pushpin_label_position = left
| subdivision_type   = Country
| pushpin_map_alt        =
| subdivision_name   = {{flag|India}}
| pushpin_map_caption     = Location of Kohima in Nagaland
| subdivision_type1 = [[Administrative divisions of India#Regions|Region]]
| coordinates             = {{coord|25.67|N|94.10|E|display=inline,title}}
| subdivision_type2 = [[States and territories of India|State]]
| subdivision_type       = Country
| subdivision_type3 = [[List of districts of India|District]]
| subdivision_name       = {{flag|India}}
| subdivision_name1 = [[Northeast India]]
| subdivision_type1       = [[Administrative divisions of India#Regions|Region]]
| subdivision_name2 = [[Nagaland]]
| subdivision_type2       = [[States and territories of India|State]]
| subdivision_name3 = [[Kohima district|Kohima District]]
| subdivision_type3       = [[List of districts of India|District]]
| established_title = <!-- Established -->
| subdivision_name1       = [[Northeast India]]
| established_date   = 1879
| subdivision_name2       = {{flagicon image|..Nagaland Flag(INDIA).png}} [[Nagaland]]
| parts_type         = Divisions
| subdivision_name3       = [[Kohima District]]
| parts             = [[Municipal Wards of Kohima|19 municipal wards]]
| established_title       = <!-- Established -->
| government_type   = [[Municipality]]
| established_date       = 1879
| governing_body     = [[Kohima Municipal Council]]
| founder                =
| leader_title       = Chairperson
| named_for              =
| leader_name       = Neikhozo Suokhrie
| parts_type                   = Divisions
| leader_party      = [[Naga People's Front]]
| parts                       = [[Municipal Wards of Kohima|19 municipal wards]]
| leader_title2      = Deputy Chairperson
| government_type         = [[Municipality]]
| leader_name2      = Khrielievi Chüsi ([[Naga People's Front]])
| governing_body         = [[Kohima Municipal Council]]
| leader_title3      = Administrator
| leader_title           = Administrator
| leader_name3      = Lanusenla Longkümer
| leader_name             = T. Lanusenla Longkümer
| unit_pref         = Metric
| unit_pref              = Metric
| area_total_km2     = 20
| area_footnotes          =  
| elevation_m       = 1444
| area_rank              =  
| population_total   = 115283
| area_total_km2         = 20
| population_as_of   = 2011
| elevation_footnotes     =  
| population_density_km2 = auto
| elevation_m             = 1444
| population_demonym = Kohimian <br> ''kewhi–mia''
| population_total       = 115,283<ref name="census2011"/>
| population_footnotes = <ref name="census2011"/>
| population_as_of       = 2011
| demographics_type1 = Languages
| population_rank        =
| demographics1_title1 = Official
| population_density_km2 = auto
| demographics1_info1 = [[English language|English]]
| population_demonym     = Kohimian <br> ''kewhi–mia''
| demographics1_title2 = Major languages
| population_footnotes   = <!-- population is for municipality, not the district! -->
| demographics1_info2 = [[Angami language|Angami]] • [[Ao language|Ao]] • [[Chakhesang language|Chakhesang]] • [[Lotha language|Lotha]] • [[Sümi language|Sümi]]
| demographics_type1     = Languages
| timezone1         = [[Indian Standard Time|IST]]
| demographics1_title1   = Official
| utc_offset1       = +5:30
| demographics1_info1     = [[English language|English]]
| postal_code_type   = [[Postal Index Number|PIN]]
| demographics1_title2   = Major languages
| postal_code       = 797001
| demographics1_info2     = [[Angami language|Angami]] • [[Ao language|Ao]] • [[Chakhesang language|Chakhesang]] • [[Lotha language|Lotha]] • [[Sümi language|Sümi]]
| area_code_type     = Telephone code
| timezone1               = [[Indian Standard Time|IST]]
| area_code         = 91 (0)370
| utc_offset1             = +5:30
| registration_plate = [[List of RTO districts in India#NL.E2.80.94Nagaland|NL-01]]
| postal_code_type       = [[Postal Index Number|PIN]]
| blank1_name_sec1   = [[Human sex ratio|Sex ratio]]
| postal_code             = 797001
| blank1_info_sec1   = 927 [[male|♂]]/[[female|♀]]
| area_code_type         = Telephone code
| blank1_name_sec2   = [[Climate of India|Climate]]
| area_code               = 91 (0)370
| blank1_info_sec2   = [[Climatic regions of India|Temperate]] <small>([[Köppen climate classification|Köppen]])</small>
| registration_plate     = [[List of RTO districts in India#NL.E2.80.94Nagaland|NL-01]]
| website           = {{URL|kmc.nagaland.gov.in/}}
| blank1_name_sec1       = [[Human sex ratio|Sex ratio]]
| blank1_info_sec1       = 927 [[male|♂]]/[[female|♀]]
| blank1_name_sec2       = [[Climate of India|Climate]]
| blank1_info_sec2       = [[Climatic regions of India|Temperate]] <small>([[Köppen climate classification|Köppen]])</small>
| website                 = {{URL|kmc.nagaland.gov.in/}}
| footnotes              =
}}
}}
'''Kohima''' ({{IPAc-en|k|oʊ|ˈ|h|iː|m|ə}} {{audio|Kohima.ogg|pronunciation}}) ([[Angami language|Angami Naga]]: ''Kewhi-ra''), is the [[Capital city|capital]] of the [[North East India|Northeastern]] [[India]]n state of [[Nagaland]]. With a resident population of almost 100,000, it is the second largest city in the state.<ref name="census2011"/> Originally known as '''''Kewhira''''', Kohima was founded in 1878 when the [[British Empire]] established its headquarters of the then [[Naga Hills District, British India|Naga Hills District]] of [[Assam Province]]. It officially became the capital after the state of Nagaland was inaugurated in 1963. Kohima was the site of one of the bloodiest battles of [[World War II]]. The battle is often referred to as the ''‘[[Battle of Stalingrad|Stalingrad]] of the East’''.<ref>Dougherty 2008, p. 159.</ref><ref>Ritter 2017, p. 123</ref> In 2013, the British [[National Army Museum]] voted the [[Battle of Kohima]] to be ''‘Britain's Greatest Battle’''.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.nam.ac.uk/exhibitions/online-exhibitions/britains-greatest-battles |title=Britain's Greatest Battles |publisher=National Army Museum |access-date=15 December 2015}}</ref>
'''Kohima''' ({{IPAc-en|audio=Kohima.ogg|k|oʊ|ˈ|h|iː|m|ə}}; [[Angami language|Tenyidie]]: Kewhira ({{IPA|njm|ˈkɛʍɪɻə|IPA}})) is the [[Capital city|capital]] of the [[Northeast India|North East Indian]] state of [[Nagaland]]. With a resident population of almost 100,000, it is the second largest city in the state.<ref name="census2011"/> Kohima constitutes both a [[Kohima District|district]] and a [[Kohima Municipal Council|municipality]]. The municipality covers {{convert|20|km²|sqmi|abbr=on}}. The city lies on the foothills of [[Mount Japfü|Japfü section]] of the [[Barail Range]] located south of the district ({{Coord|25.67|N|94.12|E|}})<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.fallingrain.com/world/IN/20/Kohima.html|title=Maps, Weather, and Airports for Kohima, India|access-date=10 June 2015}}</ref> and has an average elevation of {{cvt|1261|m|ft}}.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://kohima.nic.in/|title=Kohima Home NIC|access-date=10 June 2015}}</ref>


Kohima constitutes both a [[Kohima District|district]] and a [[Kohima Municipal Council|municipality]]. The municipality covers {{convert|20|km²|sqmi|abbr=on}}. Kohima lies on the foothills of [[Mount Japfü|Japfü section]] of the [[Barail Range]] located south of the District ({{Coord|25.67|N|94.12|E|}})<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.fallingrain.com/world/IN/20/Kohima.html|title=Maps, Weather, and Airports for Kohima, India|access-date=10 June 2015}}</ref> and has an average elevation of 1,261 metres (4137 feet).<ref>{{cite web|url=http://kohima.nic.in/|title=Kohima Home NIC|access-date=10 June 2015}}</ref>
Originally known as Kewhira, the city's history goes back to a time when it was a village of the [[Angami Naga]]s. It became an urban centre in 1878 when the [[British Empire]] established its headquarters of the then [[Naga Hills District, British India|Naga Hills District]] of [[Assam Province]]. Kohima was the site of one of the bloodiest battles of [[World War II]] during the [[Imperial Japan|Japanese]] [[Operation U-Go|U-Go offensive]] into [[British Raj|British India]] in 1944. The battle is often referred to as the ''[[Battle of Stalingrad|Stalingrad]] of the East''.<ref>Dougherty 2008, p. 159.</ref><ref>Ritter 2017, p. 123</ref> In 2013, the British [[National Army Museum]] voted the [[Battle of Kohima]] to be ''Britain's Greatest Battle''.<ref>{{cite web |title=Britain's Greatest Battles |url=http://www.nam.ac.uk/exhibitions/online-exhibitions/britains-greatest-battles |access-date=15 December 2015 |publisher=National Army Museum}}</ref>


==Etymology==
It officially became Nagaland's capital after the state was inaugurated in 1963.
Kohima was originally known as ''Kewhi–ra''.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://kohima.nic.in/history/|title=History|website=District Kohima|access-date=2019-10-08}}</ref> The name, Kohima, was officially given by the British as they could not pronounce the Angami name of {{lang|njm|Kewhi–ra}} ([[Angami language|Tenyidie]] for "the land where the flower ''‘Kewhi’'' grows"). It is called after the wild flowering plant ''‘Kewhi’'', found in the mountains. Most local people prefer to use ''‘Kewhi–ra’''.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.incredibleindia.org/content/incredible-india-v2/en/destinations/kohima.html#:~:text=Kohima%20is%20called%20the%20land,and%20tribal%20traditions%20and%20culture.|title=Kohima - Incredible India|website=[[Incredible India]]|access-date=24 April 2022}}</ref>


==History==
== Etymology ==
Kohima was originally a large village named ''[[Kohima Village|Kewhira]]'', which is located in the northeastern part of the present day Kohima Urban Area. The village is divided into four large clans (''[[Clan|thinuo]]''): ''Tsütuonuomia'', ''Lhisemia'', ''Dapfhütsumia'' and ''Pfüchatsumia'' (T, L, D, and P Khel respectively).
Kohima was originally known as ''Kewhi–ra''.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Nesarikar |first=Vidya |date=2024-06-18 |title=Where heroes lie |url=https://www.thehindu.com/education/where-heroes-lie/article68277098.ece |access-date=2025-03-28 |work=The Hindu |language=en-IN |issn=0971-751X}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=History {{!}} District Kohima, Government of Nagaland {{!}} India |url=https://kohima.nic.in/history/ |access-date=2023-10-31 |language=en-US}}</ref> People from different places and directions came in search of a place to settle down and formed a homogenous group that necessitated the establishment of a village. They named it Kewhira which is derived from the Angami word ''kephfükewhi'' which means to "meet and assemble together" and ''ra'' means "village" with its area jurisdiction.<ref>{{Cite web |last=PTI |date=2023-10-14 |title=The original name of Kohima is Kewhira |url=https://nagalandtribune.in/the-original-name-of-kohima-is-kewhira/ |access-date=2025-03-28 |website=Nagaland Tribune |language=en-US}}</ref> The people of ''Kewhira'' are called ''Kewhimia'' (''mia'' means people) who are the indigenous inhabitants and hereditarily owned the land of ''Kewhira''.<ref name=":0">{{cite web |date=14 October 2023|title=The original name of Kohima is Kewhira,' clarifies KVC|url=https://morungexpress.com/the-original-name-of-kohima-is-kewhira-clarifies-kvc|access-date=15 September 2024|website=[[The Morung Express]]}}</ref>


===Colonial era===
== History ==
The [[East India Company]] [[Company rule in India|Administration]] started to expand into Kohima beginning the 1840s.<ref>Col Ved Prakash, ''Encyclopaedia of North-East India, Volume 5'', Atlantic Publishers & Dist, India, 2007, p. 2158</ref> The progress made by the [[Presidency armies|company armies]] in annexing the region continued after the [[Indian Rebellion of 1857]], although now under the auspices of the [[British Indian Army]]. Kohima was the first seat of modern administration as the Headquarters of [[Naga Hills District, British India|Naga Hills District]] (then under [[Assam Province]]) with the appointment of [[Guybon Henry Damant]] as Political Officer in 1879.
=== Medieval era ===
According to oral history, the historical founder of [[Kohima Village|Kewhira]] (Kohima Village) was ''Tsiera'' (stone defender). The village is said to be more than 700 years old and is believed to be the second largest village in Asia.<ref name=":0"/> The village is divided into four large clans (''[[Clan|thinuo]]''): ''Tsütuonuomia'', ''Lhisemia'', ''Dapfhütsumia'' and ''Pfüchatsumia'' (T, L, D, and P Khel respectively).<ref>{{cite web |date=30 December 2010 |title=Clarification on the founder of Kewhira (Kohima) village |url=https://morungexpress.com/clarification-founder-kewhira-kohima-village |access-date=3 April 2023 |website=[[The Morung Express]]}}</ref>


===Battle of Kohima===
=== Colonial era ===
{{Main|Battle of Kohima|Battle of the Tennis Court}}
The [[East India Company]] [[Company rule in India|Administration]] started to expand into Kohima beginning the 1840s.<ref>Col Ved Prakash, ''Encyclopaedia of North-East India, Volume 5'', Atlantic Publishers & Dist, India, 2007, p. 2158</ref> The progress made by the [[Presidency armies|company armies]] in annexing the region continued after the [[Indian Rebellion of 1857]], although now under the auspices of the [[British Indian Army]]. Kohima was the first seat of modern administration as the Headquarters of [[Naga Hills District, British India|Naga Hills District]] (then under [[Assam Province]]) with the appointment of [[Guybon Henry Damant]] as Political Officer in 1879.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://nagalandgk.com/history-battle-of-khonoma-naga-resistance-to-the-british/|title=BATTLE OF KHONOMA: THE LAST AND FINAL RESISTANCE OF THE NAGAS TO THE BRITISH|website=Nagaland GK|date=5 August 2021 |access-date=17 December 2024}}</ref>
[[File:IND 003483 tennis court at Kohima.jpg|thumb|300px|The mined tennis court and terraces of the District Commissioner's bungalow in Kohima.]]


In 1944 during the [[World War II|Second World War]] the [[Battle of Kohima]] along with the simultaneous [[Battle of Imphal]] was the turning point in the [[Burma Campaign]].<ref>Anbarasan Ethirajan, [https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-55625447 Kohima: Britain's 'forgotten' battle that changed the course of WWII], bbc.com, India, February 13, 2021</ref> For the first time in [[South-East Asian Theatre of World War II|South-East Asia]], the [[Empire of Japan|Japanese]] lost the initiative to the [[Allies of World War II|Allies]], which the Allies then retained until the end of the war. This hand-to-hand battle and slaughter prevented the [[Imperial Japanese Army|Japanese Army]] from gaining a base from which they might have easily gone into the plains of India.<ref>Bert Sim, Mosstodloch, Aberdeenshire, Scotland: Pipe Major of the Gordon Highlanders at Kohima: his home is named "Kohima." -- RJWilliams, Slingerlands, NY/USA</ref>
=== Battle of Kohima ===
{{Main|Battle of Kohima|Battle of the Tennis Court}}In 1944 during the [[World War II|Second World War]] the [[Battle of Kohima]] along with the simultaneous [[Battle of Imphal]] was the turning point in the [[Burma Campaign]].<ref>Anbarasan Ethirajan, [https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-55625447 Kohima: Britain's 'forgotten' battle that changed the course of WWII], bbc.com, India, February 13, 2021</ref> For the first time in [[South-East Asian Theatre of World War II|South-East Asia]], the [[Empire of Japan|Japanese]] lost the initiative to the [[Allies of World War II|Allies]], which the Allies then retained until the end of the war. This hand-to-hand battle and slaughter prevented the [[Imperial Japanese Army|Japanese Army]] from gaining a base from which they might have easily gone into the plains of India.<ref>Bert Sim, Mosstodloch, Aberdeenshire, Scotland: Pipe Major of the Gordon Highlanders at Kohima: his home is named "Kohima." -- RJWilliams, Slingerlands, NY/USA</ref>


[[File:Kohima War Cemetery, Kohima, Nagaland (89).jpeg|thumb|Kohima War Cemetery, Kohima, Nagaland]]
[[File:Kohima War Cemetery, Kohima, Nagaland (89).jpeg|thumb|centre|[[Kohima War Cemetery]]]]


Kohima has a large cemetery known as the [[War Cemetery in Kohima]] for the Allied war dead; it is maintained by the [[Commonwealth War Graves Commission]]. The cemetery lies on the slopes of Garrison Hill, in what was once the Deputy Commissioner's tennis court, which was the scene of intense fighting known as the [[Battle of the Tennis Court]]. The [[epitaph]] carved on the memorial of the 2nd British Division in the cemetery has become world-famous as the Kohima poem.
Kohima has a large cemetery known as the [[Kohima War Cemetery]] for the Allied war dead; it is maintained by the [[Commonwealth War Graves Commission]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=CWGC |title=Kohima War Cemetery {{!}} Cemetery Details |url=https://www.cwgc.org/visit-us/find-cemeteries-memorials/cemetery-details/2058100/kohima-war-cemetery/#:~:text=KOHIMA%20WAR%20CEMETERY%20lies%20on%20the%20battle,Second%20World%20War%20and%201%20non-war%20burial. |access-date=2025-03-28 |website=CWGC |language=en}}</ref> The cemetery lies on the slopes of Garrison Hill, in what was once the Deputy Commissioner's tennis court, which was the scene of intense fighting known as the [[Battle of the Tennis Court]]. The [[epitaph]] carved on the memorial of the 2nd British Division in the cemetery has become world-famous as the Kohima poem.
<blockquote>
<blockquote>
''When You Go Home, Tell Them of Us and Say,''
''When You Go Home, Tell Them of Us and Say,''
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The verse is attributed to [[John Maxwell Edmonds]] (1875–1958), and is thought to have been inspired by [[Battle of Thermopylae#Epitaph of Simonides|the epitaph]] written by [[Simonides of Ceos|Simonides]] to honour the Greek who fell at the [[Battle of Thermopylae]] in 480 BC.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.burmastar.org.uk/epitaph.htm |title=Epitaph |access-date=10 June 2015 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150510152752/http://www.burmastar.org.uk/epitaph.htm |archive-date=10 May 2015 }}</ref>
The verse is attributed to [[John Maxwell Edmonds]] (1875–1958), and is thought to have been inspired by [[Battle of Thermopylae#Epitaph of Simonides|the epitaph]] written by [[Simonides of Ceos|Simonides]] to honour the Greek who fell at the [[Battle of Thermopylae]] in 480 BC.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.burmastar.org.uk/epitaph.htm |title=Epitaph |access-date=10 June 2015 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150510152752/http://www.burmastar.org.uk/epitaph.htm |archive-date=10 May 2015 }}</ref>


===1963–present===
=== 1963–present ===
When Nagaland became a full-fledged state on 1 December 1963, Kohima was christened as the state capital.<ref>District Kohima, [https://kohima.nic.in/history/ Demography], kohima.nic.in, India, retrieved February 12, 2021</ref>
When Nagaland became a full-fledged state on 1 December 1963, Kohima was named as the state capital.<ref>District Kohima, [https://kohima.nic.in/history/ Demography], kohima.nic.in, India, retrieved February 12, 2021</ref>


====Killings of Kekuojalie Sachü and Vikhozo Yhoshü====
==== Killings of Kekuojalie Sachü and Vikhozo Yhoshü ====
{{main|1986 Killings of Kekuojalie Sachü and Vikhozo Yhoshü}}
{{main|1986 Killings of Kekuojalie Sachü and Vikhozo Yhoshü}}
On 20 March 1986, two students Kekuojalie Sachü and Vikhozo Yhoshü were killed in indiscriminate firing by [[Nagaland Police]] when they participated in a peaceful protest called by the [[Naga Students' Federation]] (NSF) to rally against the state government's decision on the introduction of [[Indian Police Service]] (IPS) cadres and the extension of the Disturbed Area Belt from 5 to 20&nbsp;km along the Indo-Myanmar (Indo-[[Burma]]) border. The event was so tumultuous that it led three Cabinet ministers and five State Ministers of Nagaland to resign.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://morungexpress.com/remembering-kekuojalie-sachu-vikhozo-yhoshu/|title=Rememembering Kekuojalie Sachü & Vikhozo Yhoshü|website=Morung Express|access-date=2020-07-05}}</ref>
On 20 March 1986, two students Kekuojalie Sachü (19) and Vikhozo Yhoshü (14) were killed and over 50 others were injured in indiscriminate firing by [[Nagaland Police]] when they participated in a peaceful protest called by the [[Naga Students' Federation]] (NSF) to rally against the state government's decision on the introduction of [[Indian Police Service]] (IPS) cadres and the extension of the Disturbed Area Belt from 5 to 20&nbsp;km along the Indo-Myanmar (Indo-[[Burma]]) border. The event was so tumultuous that it led three Cabinet ministers and five State Ministers of Nagaland to resign.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://morungexpress.com/remembering-kekuojalie-sachu-vikhozo-yhoshu/|title=Rememembering Kekuojalie Sachü & Vikhozo Yhoshü|website=Morung Express|access-date=2020-07-05|archive-date=25 September 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160925225207/http://morungexpress.com/remembering-kekuojalie-sachu-vikhozo-yhoshu/|url-status=dead}}</ref>


====1995 Kohima Massacre====
==== 1995 Kohima Massacre ====
{{main|1995 Kohima Massacre}}
{{main|1995 Kohima Massacre}}
On March 5, 1995, when a convoy of the 16th [[Rashtriya Rifles]] of the [[Indian Army]] was traversing through Kohima, a tyre burst from one of the convoy's own vehicle led the armed troops to mistake the sound of the tyre bursting for a bomb attack. The troops reacted immediately and started firing at civilian populace. A total of 7 were killed and 36 were left injured. The incident is widely referred to as the 1995 Kohima Massacre.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Naleo|first=Villo|url=https://easternmirrornagaland.com/remembering-truthfully-and-forgiving-generously/|title=Nagaland:Remembering Truthfully and Forgiving Generously|date=August 23, 2016|website=[[Eastern Mirror]]|access-date=5 December 2021}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.satp.org/satporgtp/countries/india/states/nagaland/timeline/1995.htm|title=Nagaland Timeline - Year 1995|website=[[South Asia Terrorism Portal]]|access-date=5 December 2021}}</ref>
On 5 March 1995, when a convoy of the 16th [[Rashtriya Rifles]] of the [[Indian Army]], comprising 63 vehicles with 5 officers, 15 [[junior commissioned officer]]s and approximately 400 [[soldier]]s was traversing through the densely populated AOC and BOC areas of Kohima en route from [[Bishnupur, Manipur|Bishnupur]] to [[Dimapur]], a [[Blowout (tire)|tyre burst]] from one of the convoy's own vehicle led the armed troops to mistake the sound of the tyre bursting for a bomb attack by insurgents. The troops reacted immediately and started firing at civilian populace. The firing lasted approximately 1:30&nbsp;p.m. to 3:30&nbsp;p.m., during which the soldiers discharged 1,207 rounds of [[Gunshot|gunfire]] and 5 [[Mortar (weapon)|mortal shell]]s into civilian areas. A total of 7 were killed and 36 were left injured. Eyewitness accounts and subsequent investigations found no evidence of an actual ambush or crossfire with insurgents. The incident is widely referred to as the 1995 Kohima Massacre.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Naleo|first=Villo|url=https://easternmirrornagaland.com/remembering-truthfully-and-forgiving-generously/|title=Nagaland:Remembering Truthfully and Forgiving Generously|date=August 23, 2016|website=[[Eastern Mirror]]|access-date=5 December 2021}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.satp.org/satporgtp/countries/india/states/nagaland/timeline/1995.htm|title=Nagaland Timeline - Year 1995|website=[[South Asia Terrorism Portal]]|access-date=5 December 2021}}</ref>


==Geography==
==== 2017 Nagaland protests ====
===Topography===
{{main|2017 Nagaland protests}}
Kohima is located at 25°67' North, 94°10' East, in the southern part of Nagaland. It lies north of the [[Mount Japfü|Japfü]][[Barail Range|Barail]] intersection with [[Pulie Badze]] to the southwest overlooking the city.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://rootsandleisure.com/pulie-badze-nagaland/|title=Find Out Why Locals in Nagaland Love Trekking to “Pulie Badze” in Jotsoma Village, Kohima|website=Roots and Leisure|access-date=1 January 2022}}</ref> The hills on which Kohima is located has an elevation ranging from {{convert|1345|to|1560|m|abbr=off}}.
On 2 February 2017, the office building of the [[Kohima Municipal Council]] was burned down by a [[Crowd|mob]] as part of the [[2017 Nagaland protests|boycott of the Civic Elections]]. The fire significantly damaged adjoining government and private buildings.<ref>{{cite web|last=Rutsa|first=Xavier|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/government-offices-torched-in-kohima-situation-worsening-in-nagaland/articleshow/56938643.cms|title=Violence in Nagaland: Protesters attack government offices in Kohima|date=3 February 2017|website=[[The Times of India]]|access-date=24 September 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://indianexpress.com/article/india/nagaland-violence-all-you-need-to-know-4505445/|title=Nagaland violence: What is the protest all about? All you need to know|date=3 February 2017|website=[[Indian Express]]|access-date=24 September 2022}}</ref> On 19 February, in response against the backdrop of widespread protests and civil unrest in the state, [[T. R. Zeliang]] announced his resignation as the Chief Minister of Nagaland.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.firstpost.com/politics/nagaland-cm-tr-zeliang-resigns-amid-protests-all-you-need-to-know-about-the-unrest-3291688.html|title=Nagaland CM TR Zeliang resigns amid protests: All you need to know about the unrest|date=20 February 2017|website=[[First Post]]|access-date=24 September 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.cmie.com/kommon/bin/sr.php?kall=warticle&dt=20170220112633&msec=210&ver=pf|title=TR Zeliang steps down as Nagaland Chief Minister|date=20 February 2017|website=Centre for Monitoring Indian Economy Pvt. Ltd.|access-date=24 September 2022}}</ref>


===Climate===
==== 2023 Kohima fire ====
{{Main|2023 Kohima fire}}
On 27 February 2023, a massive fire broke in Mao Market and NN Market, one of the biggest commercial areas in Kohima, causing complete damage to the markets.<ref>{{cite web |date=27 February 2023 |title=Massive fire breaks out at Mao Market in Nagaland's Kohima |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/massive-fire-breaks-out-at-mao-market-in-nagaland-kohima-2340384-2023-02-27 |access-date=3 April 2023 |website=[[India Today]]}}</ref>
 
== Geography ==
=== Topography ===
Kohima is located at 25°67' North, 94°10' East, in the southern part of Nagaland. It lies north of the [[Mount Japfü|Japfü]]–[[Barail Range|Barail]] intersection with [[Pulie Badze]] to the southwest overlooking the city. The hills on which Kohima is located has an elevation ranging from {{convert|1345|to|1560|m|abbr=off}}.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://rootsandleisure.com/pulie-badze-nagaland/|title=Find Out Why Locals in Nagaland Love Trekking to "Pulie Badze" in Jotsoma Village, Kohima|website=Roots and Leisure|date=20 July 2018 |access-date=1 January 2022}}</ref>
 
=== Climate ===
The city experiences a [[subtropical highland climate]] ([[Köppen climate classification|Köppen]]: ''Cwb''), with greater contrast between summer and winter than in other continents due to the [[monsoon]]s but mild temperatures even for latitude and altitude. The months of June to September concentrate much of the precipitation.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.weatherbase.com/weather/weather-summary.php3?s=590733&cityname=Kohima,+Nagaland,+India&units=|title=Kohima, India Köppen Climate Classification (Weatherbase)|website=Weatherbase|access-date=2019-02-15}}</ref>
The city experiences a [[subtropical highland climate]] ([[Köppen climate classification|Köppen]]: ''Cwb''), with greater contrast between summer and winter than in other continents due to the [[monsoon]]s but mild temperatures even for latitude and altitude. The months of June to September concentrate much of the precipitation.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.weatherbase.com/weather/weather-summary.php3?s=590733&cityname=Kohima,+Nagaland,+India&units=|title=Kohima, India Köppen Climate Classification (Weatherbase)|website=Weatherbase|access-date=2019-02-15}}</ref>


Kohima has pleasant winters with little rainfall and very warm, very rainy summers. The coolest months are from December to February, when frost may occur and in the highest altitudes occasional snowfall is possible. During the height of summers, from June to August, temperatures range on average from {{convert|65|-|80|F|order=flip}}, with heavy and frequent rainfall.{{Citation needed|date=February 2019}}
{{Weather box
{{Weather box
|collapsed =
|collapsed =
|location = Kohima (1961–1990, extremes 1952–2012)
|location = Kohima (1991–2020, extremes 1952–2020)
|metric first = Y
|metric first = Y
|single line = Y
|single line = Y
Line 150: Line 159:
| Dec record high C = 26.0
| Dec record high C = 26.0
| year record high C = 33.9
| year record high C = 33.9
| Jan high C = 15.5
| Jan high C = 16.1
| Feb high C = 17.7
| Feb high C = 19.0
| Mar high C = 21.7
| Mar high C = 23.5
| Apr high C = 23.8
| Apr high C = 25.2
| May high C = 23.8
| May high C = 25.1
| Jun high C = 24.7
| Jun high C = 26.0
| Jul high C = 25.1
| Jul high C = 25.8
| Aug high C = 25.3
| Aug high C = 26.2
| Sep high C = 24.8
| Sep high C = 25.6
| Oct high C = 23.7
| Oct high C = 24.2
| Nov high C = 20.7
| Nov high C = 21.8
| Dec high C = 17.9
| Dec high C = 17.0
|year high C = 22.1
|year high C = 22.8
| Jan mean C = 11.6
| Jan low C = 5.1
| Feb mean C = 13.4
| Feb low C = 6.6
| Mar mean C = 17.3
| Mar low C = 10.6
| Apr mean C = 19.6
| Apr low C = 13.3
| May mean C = 20.4
| May low C = 14.7
| Jun mean C = 21.6
| Jun low C = 16.7
| Jul mean C = 21.5
| Jul low C = 17.2
| Aug mean C = 21.6
| Aug low C = 17.2
| Sep mean C = 21.3
| Sep low C = 16.4
| Oct mean C = 20.1
| Oct low C = 13.5
| Nov mean C = 16.6
| Nov low C = 8.8
| Dec mean C = 13.4
| Dec low C = 5.2
|year mean C = 18.2
| year low C = 11.9
| Jan low C = 8.0
| Feb low C = 9.3
| Mar low C = 11.2
| Apr low C = 15.0
| May low C = 16.6
| Jun low C = 17.8
| Jul low C = 18.7
| Aug low C = 18.9
| Sep low C = 17.9
| Oct low C = 16.7
| Nov low C = 13.1
| Dec low C = 9.2
| year low C = 14.5
| Jan record low C = 0.6
| Jan record low C = 0.6
| Feb record low C = 2.3
| Feb record low C = 2.3
Line 197: Line 193:
| Jul record low C = 7.8
| Jul record low C = 7.8
| Aug record low C = 8.3
| Aug record low C = 8.3
| Sep record low C = 8.9
| Sep record low C = 7.5
| Oct record low C = 5.0
| Oct record low C = 5.0
| Nov record low C = 3.1
| Nov record low C = 3.1
| Dec record low C = 2.2
| Dec record low C = 0.7
| year record low C = 0.6
| year record low C = 0.6
| rain colour = green
| rain colour = green
| Jan rain mm = 9.6
| Jan rain mm = 12.1
| Feb rain mm = 24.0
| Feb rain mm = 28.5
| Mar rain mm = 48.4
| Mar rain mm = 48.6
| Apr rain mm = 92.2
| Apr rain mm = 100.1
| May rain mm = 133.4
| May rain mm = 188.5
| Jun rain mm = 323.6
| Jun rain mm = 248.3
| Jul rain mm = 363.3
| Jul rain mm = 334.7
| Aug rain mm = 360.7
| Aug rain mm = 344.0
| Sep rain mm = 228.6
| Sep rain mm = 268.2
| Oct rain mm = 134.8
| Oct rain mm = 125.2
| Nov rain mm = 32.5
| Nov rain mm = 22.9
| Dec rain mm = 5.8
| Dec rain mm = 6.4
| year rain mm = 1756.9
| year rain mm = 1727.6
| Jan rain days = 1.2
| Jan rain days = 1.4
| Feb rain days = 2.5
| Feb rain days = 3.0
| Mar rain days = 4.5
| Mar rain days = 4.6
| Apr rain days = 8.3
| Apr rain days = 9.2
| May rain days = 12.2
| May rain days = 13.8
| Jun rain days = 19.0
| Jun rain days = 17.7
| Jul rain days = 22.1
| Jul rain days = 20.7
| Aug rain days = 19.3
| Aug rain days = 19.0
| Sep rain days = 16.4
| Sep rain days = 16.1
| Oct rain days = 9.1
| Oct rain days = 8.0
| Nov rain days = 2.3
| Nov rain days = 1.8
| Dec rain days = 0.6
| Dec rain days = 0.7
| year rain days = 117.5
| year rain days = 116.1
| Jan humidity = 74
| Jan humidity = 74
| Feb humidity = 67
| Feb humidity = 67
Line 242: Line 238:
| Dec humidity = 71
| Dec humidity = 71
|year humidity = 78
|year humidity = 78
|source 1 = [[India Meteorological Department]]<ref name=IMDnormals>{{cite web
|source 1 = [[India Meteorological Department]] (humidity 1961-1990)<ref>{{cite web
| url = https://imdpune.gov.in/library/public/Climatological%20Tables%201991-2020.pdf
| title = Climatological Tables of Observatories in India 1991-2020
| publisher = [[India Meteorological Department]]
| access-date = April 8, 2024
}}</ref><ref name=IMDnormals>{{cite web
| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20200216160549/http://imdpune.gov.in/library/public/Climatological%20Normals%20%281961-1990%29.pdf
| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20200216160549/http://imdpune.gov.in/library/public/Climatological%20Normals%20%281961-1990%29.pdf
| archive-date = 16 February 2020
| archive-date = 16 February 2020
Line 263: Line 264:
| page = M158
| page = M158
| access-date = 16 February 2020}}</ref>
| access-date = 16 February 2020}}</ref>
}}Kohima has been ranked 36th best “National Clean Air City” under (Category 3 population under 3 lakhs cities) in India.<ref>{{Cite web |date=7 September 2024 |title=Swachh Vayu Sarvekshan 2024 |url=https://prana.cpcb.gov.in/ncapServices/robust/fetchFilesFromDrive/Swachh_Vayu_Survekshan_2024_Result.pdf |website=Swachh Vayu Sarvekshan 2024}}</ref>


}}
== Environment ==
=== Water supply and availability ===
Most Wards in Kohima experiences severe water shortages during the dry seasons.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.nagalandpost.com/index.php/kohima-set-to-become-smart-sans-running-water/|title=Kohima set to become 'smart' sans running water|date=10 March 2022|newspaper=[[Nagaland Post]]|access-date=24 April 2022}}</ref> The current water resources from the reservoirs of Zarü River and the streams from the slopes of [[Pulie Badze]] do not fulfill the needs of the rapidly growing population of Kohima. With the augmentation of the Zarü River project and several other upcoming water projects to be supplied from [[Dzüko Valley]] and others. The water supply is expected to cover more wards.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://easternmirrornagaland.com/nagaland-chief-minister-commissions-kohima-water-supply-project/|title=Nagaland Chief Minister commissions Kohima water supply project|date=27 March 2021|newspaper=[[Eastern Mirror]]|access-date=30 July 2021}}</ref>


==Environment==
== Administration ==
===Water supply and availability===
The [[Kohima Municipal Council]] (KMC) was established in 2005 under India's Constitution (Seventy-Fourth Amendment) Act, 1992. It has waste management, drainage and trade licensing and other responsibilities.<ref>{{cite web|title=Kohima Municipal Council, Location of Kohima Municipal Council|url=http://www.kohimaonline.in/city-guide/kohima-municipal-council|website=kohimaonline.in|publisher=India Online}}</ref><ref name="Kohima-admin">{{cite web|title=Administration of Kohima, Kohima District Administration|url=http://www.kohimaonline.in/city-guide/administration-of-kohima|website=kohimaonline.in|publisher=India Online}}</ref>
Most Wards in Kohima experiences severe water shortages during the dry seasons.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.nagalandpost.com/index.php/kohima-set-to-become-smart-sans-running-water/|title=Kohima set to become ‘smart’ sans running water|date=10 March 2022|newspaper=[[Nagaland Post]]|access-date=24 April 2022}}</ref> The current water resources from the reservoirs of Zarü River and the streams from the slopes of [[Pulie Badze]] do not fulfill the needs of the rapidly growing population of Kohima. With the augmentation of the Zarü River project and several other upcoming water projects to be supplied from [[Dzüko Valley]] and others. The water supply is expected to cover more wards.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://easternmirrornagaland.com/nagaland-chief-minister-commissions-kohima-water-supply-project/|title=Nagaland Chief Minister commissions Kohima water supply project|date=27 March 2021|newspaper=[[Eastern Mirror]]|access-date=30 July 2021}}</ref>
 
==Administration==
The [[Kohima Municipal Council]] (KMC) was established in 2005 under India's Constitution (Seventy-Fourth Amendment) Act, 1992. It has waste management, drainage and trade licensing and other responsibilities.<ref>{{cite web|title=Kohima Municipal Council, Location of Kohima Municipal Council|url=http://www.kohimaonline.in/city-guide/kohima-municipal-council|website=kohimaonline.in|publisher=India Online}}</ref><ref name="Kohima-admin">{{cite web|title=Administration of Kohima, Kohima District Administration|url=http://www.kohimaonline.in/city-guide/administration-of-kohima|website=kohimaonline.in|publisher=India Online}}</ref>  


Other departments of the [[Government of Nagaland|state government]], which sit in Kohima, also have a role in the administration of Kohima.<ref name="Kohima-admin"/> The "City Development Plan" for the town, for example, was written by state Urban Development Department.<ref name="cdp-2006">{{cite web|title=Kohima CDP Revised|url=http://jnnurmmis.nic.in/toolkit/Kohima_CDP_Revised.pdf|publisher=[[Government of Nagaland]]|date=July 2006|access-date=11 October 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120107005341/https://jnnurmmis.nic.in/toolkit/Kohima_CDP_Revised.pdf|archive-date=7 January 2012|url-status=dead}}</ref>
Other departments of the [[Government of Nagaland|state government]], which sit in Kohima, also have a role in the administration of Kohima.<ref name="Kohima-admin"/> The "City Development Plan" for the town, for example, was written by state Urban Development Department.<ref name="cdp-2006">{{cite web|title=Kohima CDP Revised|url=http://jnnurmmis.nic.in/toolkit/Kohima_CDP_Revised.pdf|publisher=[[Government of Nagaland]]|date=July 2006|access-date=11 October 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120107005341/https://jnnurmmis.nic.in/toolkit/Kohima_CDP_Revised.pdf|archive-date=7 January 2012|url-status=dead}}</ref>


=== Wards ===
=== Wards ===
{{seealso|Municipal Wards of Kohima}}
{{see also|Municipal Wards of Kohima}}
Kohima is divided into nineteen sectors with a total of thirty-three administrative wards under the authority of the [[Kohima Municipal Council]], covering an area of about {{convert|35|km²|sqmi|abbr=on}}. Each ward has its own council government and handles many of the functions that are handled by city governments in other jurisdictions.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://kmc.nagaland.gov.in/map.html|title=Map of Kohima|website=Kohima Municipal Council|access-date=1 December 2021}}</ref>
Kohima is divided into nineteen sectors with a total of thirty-three administrative wards under the authority of the [[Kohima Municipal Council]], covering an area of about {{convert|35|km²|sqmi|abbr=on}}. Each ward has its own council government and handles many of the functions that are handled by city governments in other jurisdictions.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://kmc.nagaland.gov.in/map.html|title=Map of Kohima|website=Kohima Municipal Council|access-date=1 December 2021|archive-date=28 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210728210828/https://kmc.nagaland.gov.in/map.html|url-status=dead}}</ref>
{{columns-list|colwidth=25em|
{{columns-list|colwidth=25em|
* [[Agri Farm Ward]]
* [[Agri Farm Ward]]
Line 291: Line 291:
* [[Kitsübozou Ward]]
* [[Kitsübozou Ward]]
* [[Lerie Ward]]
* [[Lerie Ward]]
* [[Lower Agri Ward]]
* [[Lower Mediezie Ward]]
* [[Lower Chandmari Ward]]
* [[Lower Chandmari Ward]]
* [[Lower Police Reserve Hill Ward]]
* [[Lower Police Reserve Hill Ward]]
Line 309: Line 309:
* [[Thegabakha Ward]]
* [[Thegabakha Ward]]
* [[Tsiepfü Tsiepfhe Ward]]
* [[Tsiepfü Tsiepfhe Ward]]
* [[Upper Agri Ward]]
* [[Upper Mediezie Ward]]
* [[Upper Chandmari Ward]]
* [[Upper Chandmari Ward]]
* [[Upper PWD Ward]]
* [[Upper PWD Ward]]
}}
}}


===Public safety===
=== Public safety ===
====Police and law enforcement====
==== Police and law enforcement ====
The [[Kohima Police]] of the [[Nagaland Police]] is the police force responsible for maintaining security, law and order in the [[Kohima district|Kohima Metropolitan Area]]. It is headed by a [[Superintendent of police (India)|Superintendent of Police]] (SP). Kevithuto Sophie is the current SP of Kohima.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://police.nagaland.gov.in/sp-co/|title=SP/CO - NAGALAND POLICE|website=www.police.nagaland.gov.in|access-date=12 April 2022}}</ref> The municipal area of Kohima is served by two police stations—[[Kohima North Police Station]] and [[Kohima South Police Station]].
The [[Kohima Police]] of the [[Nagaland Police]] is the police force responsible for maintaining security, law and order in the [[Kohima district|Kohima Metropolitan Area]]. It is headed by a [[Superintendent of police (India)|Superintendent of Police]] (SP). Kevithuto Sophie is the current SP of Kohima. The municipal area of Kohima is served by two police stations—[[Kohima North Police Station]] and Kohima South Police Station.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://police.nagaland.gov.in/sp-co/|title=SP/CO - NAGALAND POLICE|website=www.police.nagaland.gov.in|date=25 June 2019 |access-date=12 April 2022}}</ref>


In 2020, the Kohima North Police Station became the first police station and a government facility in the entire [[North East India|North Eastern Region]] of India to receive the [[International Standard Organization]] (ISO) 9001 Certification for quality management system.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://easternmirrornagaland.com/north-police-station-in-kohima-becomes-first-government-agency-in-nagaland-to-receive-iso-certification/|title=North Police Station in Kohima becomes first government agency in Nagaland to receive ISO certification|date=19 November 2020|newspaper=[[Eastern Mirror]]|access-date=12 April 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.news18.com/news/india/kohima-police-station-becomes-first-of-its-kind-in-north-east-india-to-receive-iso-certification-3108836.html|title=Kohima Police Station Becomes First of Its Kind in North East India to Receive ISO Certification|date=23 November 2020|publisher=[[News18]]|access-date=12 April 2022}}</ref>
In 2020, the Kohima North Police Station became the first police station and a government facility in the entire [[North East India|North Eastern Region]] of India to receive the [[International Organization for Standardization]] (ISO) 9001 Certification for quality management system.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://easternmirrornagaland.com/north-police-station-in-kohima-becomes-first-government-agency-in-nagaland-to-receive-iso-certification/|title=North Police Station in Kohima becomes first government agency in Nagaland to receive ISO certification|date=19 November 2020|newspaper=[[Eastern Mirror]]|access-date=12 April 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.news18.com/news/india/kohima-police-station-becomes-first-of-its-kind-in-north-east-india-to-receive-iso-certification-3108836.html|title=Kohima Police Station Becomes First of Its Kind in North East India to Receive ISO Certification|date=23 November 2020|publisher=[[News18]]|access-date=12 April 2022}}</ref>


==Demographics==
== Governance ==
===Census data===
Nagaland's traditional governance system persists in rural areas and urban Kohima through ward panchayats. Each ward elects a panchayat chairman every five years by a show of hands, who then appoints officials, including joint secretaries and Gaon Burhas (GBs). Recognized by the District Commissioner, ward panchayats oversee peaceful community coexistence, resolve disputes, and communicate community concerns to the government. GBs manage house tax collection due to their familiarity with households. These traditional bodies are integral to development work within their wards and hold meetings as needed. Institutionalizing them under the municipal act could formalize their roles, transferring councillors' duties to panchayat chairmen and integrating them into municipal councils as ward committees.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Kohima Study |url=https://www.praja.org/praja_docs/praja_downloads/UGN%2023%20-%20Kohima%20Study.pdf |access-date=18 December 2024 |website=praja.org}}</ref>   The Kohima Town Committee (KTC) was established in 1957 with 8 wards, 8 elected members, and 4 government nominees. Key pioneers include Shri Yusuf Ali as the first Ex-Officio Chairman, Late Dr. Neilhouzhu Kire as the first Vice-Chairman (1957–1967), and Late Joseph Jasokie as the first elected Chairman (1982–1983).<ref>{{Cite web |title=District Kohima, Government of Nagaland {{!}} The Land of Festivals {{!}} India |url=https://kmc.nagaland.gov.in/ |access-date=2024-12-18 |language=en-US}}</ref>
 
In 2005, Kohima's first municipality was formed under the Nagaland Municipal Act, 2001, with 19 elected councillors. The [[Kohima Municipal Council]] (KMC) remains in a transitional phase, with its powers and functions under the 74th Constitutional Amendment Act yet to be fully transferred by state government departments.
 
Currently, KMC governs 19 wards, covering nearly 11 sq. km (17% of the greater Kohima planning area) with a population of 98,000 as per the 2011 census.<ref>{{Cite web |title=District Kohima, Government of Nagaland {{!}} The Land of Festivals {{!}} India |url=https://kohima.nic.in/ |access-date=2024-12-18 |language=en-US}}</ref>
 
== Demographics ==
=== Census data ===
{{Historical populations|1910|2423|1920|2790|1930|2759|1940|3507|1950|4125|1960|7246|1970|21,545|1980|34,340|1990|51,418|2000|77,030|2010|99,039|align=right|footnote=Kohima Decadal Growth:<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.ceicdata.com/en/india/census-population-by-towns-and-urban-agglomerations-nagaland/census-population-nagaland-kohima|title=Census: Population of Kohima |access-date=1 January 2022 }}</ref>}}
{{Historical populations|1910|2423|1920|2790|1930|2759|1940|3507|1950|4125|1960|7246|1970|21,545|1980|34,340|1990|51,418|2000|77,030|2010|99,039|align=right|footnote=Kohima Decadal Growth:<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.ceicdata.com/en/india/census-population-by-towns-and-urban-agglomerations-nagaland/census-population-nagaland-kohima|title=Census: Population of Kohima |access-date=1 January 2022 }}</ref>}}


As of 2011, Kohima had a population of 99,039 of which males and females were 51,626 and 47,413 respectively. Kohima has an average literacy rate of 90.76%, higher than the national average of 79.55%.<ref name="census2011">{{cite web|title=Kohima City Population Census 2011 - Nagaland|url=http://www.census2011.co.in/data/town/801466-kohima-nagaland.html|website=[[2011 Census of India]]|date=2015}}</ref>
As of 2011, Kohima had a population of 99,039 of which males and females were 51,626 and 47,413 respectively. Kohima has an average literacy rate of 90.76%, higher than the national average of 76.55%.<ref name="census2011">{{cite web|title=Kohima City Population Census 2011 - Nagaland|url=http://www.census2011.co.in/data/town/801466-kohima-nagaland.html|website=[[2011 Census of India]]|date=2015}}</ref>
 
The city's population is composed of the 17 [[List of Naga tribes|Ethnic Groups of Nagaland]]. The population of the [[Angami Naga|Angamis]], [[Ao Naga|Aos]] and [[Lotha Naga|Lothas]] are the largest in present-day Kohima Urban Area.


===Religion===
=== Religion ===
{{Pie chart
{{Pie chart
|thumb = right
|thumb = right
Line 334: Line 339:
|label1 = [[Christianity]]
|label1 = [[Christianity]]
|value1 = 80.22
|value1 = 80.22
|color1 = crimson
|color1 = Blue
|label2 = [[Hinduism]]
|label2 = [[Hinduism]]
|value2 = 16.09
|value2 = 16.09
|color2 = #32127A
|color2 = DarkOrange
|label3 = [[Islam]]
|label3 = [[Islam]]
|value3 = 3.06
|value3 = 3.06
|color3 = #FFEF00
|color3 = Green
|label4 = [[Buddhism]]
|label4 = [[Buddhism]]
|value4 = 0.45
|value4 = 0.45
|color4 = #DAA520
|color4 = Gold
|label5 = [[Jainism]]
|label5 = [[Jainism]]
|value5 = 0.01
|value5 = 0.01
|color5 = Maroon
|color5 = Brown
|label6 = [[Sikhism]]
|label6 = [[Sikhism]]
|value6 = 0.08
|value6 = 0.08
Line 360: Line 365:
The major religion in Kohima is [[Christianity in Nagaland|Christianity]] which is practised by 80.22% of the population. Other religions includes [[Hinduism]] (16.09%), [[Islam]] (3.06%) and [[Buddhism]] (0.45%).<ref name="Kohima City religion"/>
The major religion in Kohima is [[Christianity in Nagaland|Christianity]] which is practised by 80.22% of the population. Other religions includes [[Hinduism]] (16.09%), [[Islam]] (3.06%) and [[Buddhism]] (0.45%).<ref name="Kohima City religion"/>


==Economy==
== Economy ==
===Commerce===
[[File:Kohima Central Aerial View.jpg|thumb|right|Kohima Central]]
Kohima has numerous shopping centers ranging from traditional markets to modern shopping malls. There are many dedicated markets for local products such as traditional handlooms and handicrafts.
 
Some major shopping areas of the city are:
* Bamboo Market
* Khedi Market
* Main Town Area
* Mao Market
* Super Market
* Tibetan Market
* T-Khel Market


===Tourism===
=== Tourism ===
Tourism plays an important role in the city's economy. The number of tourists visiting Kohima has been increasing significantly each year.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.financialexpress.com/lifestyle/its-a-record-nagaland-hornbill-festival-attracts-2-69-lakh-visitors/1791104/|date=11 December 2019|title=Its a record! Nagaland Hornbill Festival attracts 2.69 lakh visitors|website=[[The Financial Express (India)|The Financial Express]]|access-date=3 January 2022}}</ref>
Tourism plays an important role in the city's economy. The number of tourists visiting Kohima has been increasing significantly each year.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.financialexpress.com/lifestyle/its-a-record-nagaland-hornbill-festival-attracts-2-69-lakh-visitors/1791104/|date=11 December 2019|title=Its a record! Nagaland Hornbill Festival attracts 2.69 lakh visitors|website=[[The Financial Express (India)|The Financial Express]]|access-date=3 January 2022}}</ref>


==Cityscape==
== Cityscape ==
===Historical sites===
=== Historical sites ===
[[File:Kohima Cemetery.jpeg|thumb|Kohima War Cemetery]]
[[File:Kohima War Cemetery (2024).jpg|thumb|Kohima War Cemetery]]
 
*'''Kohima War Cemetery'''
*'''Kohima War Cemetery'''
{{main|Kohima War Cemetery}}
{{main|Kohima War Cemetery}}
Kohima War Cemetery is a memorial dedicated to soldiers of the 2nd British Division of the Allied Forces who died in the Second World War at Kohima in April 1944. There are 1,420 Commonwealth burials of the Second World War at this cemetery.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.cwgc.org/find-a-cemetery/cemetery/2058100/KOHIMA%20WAR%20CEMETERY|title=Kohima War Cemetery|publisher=Commonwealth War Graves Commission}}</ref>
Kohima War Cemetery is a memorial dedicated to soldiers of the 2nd British Division of the Allied Forces who died in the Second World War at Kohima in April 1944. There are 1,420 Commonwealth burials of the Second World War at this cemetery.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.cwgc.org/find-a-cemetery/cemetery/2058100/KOHIMA%20WAR%20CEMETERY|title=Kohima War Cemetery|publisher=Commonwealth War Graves Commission}}</ref>
[[File:Typical scenery in Kohima village (2024).jpg|thumb|Old houses in [[Kohima Village]]]]


===Parks===
=== Parks ===
*'''Sakhrie Park'''
*'''Sakhrie Park'''
{{main|Sakhrie Park}}
{{main|Sakhrie Park}}
Sakhrie Park is a recreational park located at [[Tsiepfü Tsiepfhe Ward|Middle Tsiepfü Tsiepfhe Ward]] (Middle AG) located between the [[Asian Highway 1]] and the Tsiepfü Tsiepfhe Road (AG) .<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://thenortheasttoday.com/states/nagaland/nagaland-the-story-of-how-a-garbage-dump-turns-into-a/cid2553904.htm|title=Nagaland: The story of how a garbage dump turns into a recreational park|website=[[The Northeast Today]]|date=8 April 2016|access-date=1 January 2022}}</ref>
Sakhrie Park is a recreational park located at [[Tsiepfü Tsiepfhe Ward|Middle Tsiepfü Tsiepfhe Ward]] (Middle AG) located between the [[Asian Highway 1]] and the Tsiepfü Tsiepfhe Road (AG).<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://thenortheasttoday.com/states/nagaland/nagaland-the-story-of-how-a-garbage-dump-turns-into-a/cid2553904.htm|title=Nagaland: The story of how a garbage dump turns into a recreational park|website=The Northeast Today|date=8 April 2016|access-date=1 January 2022}}</ref>
 
*'''Sokhriezie Park'''
{{main|Sokhriezie Park}}
Sokhriezie Park is a centrally located lake that sits below the PHQ Junction.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://morungexpress.com/sokhriezie-park-inauguration-on-december-4|date=1 December 2020|title=Sokhriezie Park inauguration on December 4|website=[[The Morung Express]]|access-date=13 June 2022}}</ref>


*'''Kohima Botanical Garden'''
*'''Kohima Botanical Garden'''
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Kohima Botanical Garden is located at [[New Ministers' Hill Ward]] and is looked after by the [[Nagaland Forest Department]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://forest.nagaland.gov.in/forestry-research/|title=Forestry Research - Nagaland Forest Department|website=forest.nagaland.gov.in|access-date=15 April 2022}}</ref>
Kohima Botanical Garden is located at [[New Ministers' Hill Ward]] and is looked after by the [[Nagaland Forest Department]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://forest.nagaland.gov.in/forestry-research/|title=Forestry Research - Nagaland Forest Department|website=forest.nagaland.gov.in|access-date=15 April 2022}}</ref>


==Culture==
== Culture ==
===Cultural centers===
=== Cultural centers ===
The [[Kohima Capital Cultural Center]] is a cultural center which has a multipurpose hall that provides various facilities for its citizens.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://morungexpress.com/world-class-capital-cultural-hall-in-nagaland|title=‘World Class’ Capital Cultural Hall in Nagaland|website=[[The Morung Express]]|date=1 December 2021|access-date=1 January 2022}}</ref> The [[Regional Centre of Excellence for Music & Performing Arts]] (RCEMPA) is a contemporary arts and music centre located in [[Jotsoma]], about {{Convert|6|km|abbr=on}} west of the city centre.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://easternmirrornagaland.com/rio-inaugurates-rcempa/|title=Rio inaugurates RCEMPA|date=October 16, 2021|website=[[Eastern Mirror]]|access-date=1 January 2022}}</ref>
The [[Kohima Capital Cultural Center]] is a cultural center which has a multipurpose hall that provides various facilities for its citizens.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://morungexpress.com/world-class-capital-cultural-hall-in-nagaland|title='World Class' Capital Cultural Hall in Nagaland|website=[[The Morung Express]]|date=1 December 2021|access-date=1 January 2022}}</ref> The [[Regional Centre of Excellence for Music & Performing Arts]] (RCEMPA) is a contemporary arts and music centre located in [[Jotsoma]], about {{Convert|6|km|abbr=on}} west of the city centre.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://easternmirrornagaland.com/rio-inaugurates-rcempa/|title=Rio inaugurates RCEMPA|date=October 16, 2021|website=[[Eastern Mirror]]|access-date=1 January 2022}}</ref>
 
===Events and Festivals===
[[File:Live worship service, Kohima.jpg|thumb|upright|A live worship event at The Heritage]]


=== Events and Festivals ===
*'''NAJ Cosfest'''
*'''NAJ Cosfest'''
{{main|NAJ Cosfest}}
{{main|NAJ Cosfest}}
The NAJ Cosfest is an ''[[Otaku]]''-based cosplay festival held every year in the month of July. The annual event was started in 2013 and is organized by the Nagaland Anime Junkies. The cosfest is one of the biggest cosplay festivals in [[North East India]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.thehindu.com/society/history-and-culture/nagalands-japanese-subculture/article24481651.ece|title=Nagaland's Japanese Subculture|newspaper=[[The Hindu]]|last1=Karmakar|first1=Rahul|date=July 22, 2018|access-date=1 January 2022}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.nagalandpost.com/naj-cosfest-could-be-biggest-monsoon-festivals/199537.html|title=NAJ Cosfest could be one of the biggest monsoon festivals|newspaper=[[Nagaland Post]]|date=8 July 2019|access-date=29 April 2020}}</ref>
The NAJ Cosfest is an ''[[Otaku]]''-based cosplay festival held every year in the month of July. The annual event was started in 2013 and is organized by the Nagaland Anime Junkies. The cosfest is one of the biggest cosplay festivals in [[North East India]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.thehindu.com/society/history-and-culture/nagalands-japanese-subculture/article24481651.ece|title=Nagaland's Japanese Subculture|newspaper=[[The Hindu]]|last1=Karmakar|first1=Rahul|date=July 22, 2018|access-date=1 January 2022}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.nagalandpost.com/naj-cosfest-could-be-biggest-monsoon-festivals/199537.html|title=NAJ Cosfest could be one of the biggest monsoon festivals|newspaper=[[Nagaland Post]]|date=8 July 2019|access-date=29 April 2020|archive-date=19 February 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200219090752/http://www.nagalandpost.com/naj-cosfest-could-be-biggest-monsoon-festivals/199537.html|url-status=dead}}</ref>


*'''Hornbill Festival'''
*'''Hornbill Festival'''
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The Hornbill Festival is the biggest annual festival in North East India. The festival is held every year from 1 to 10 December with the purpose to promote the richness of the Naga heritage and traditions. The main venue is located at the [[Kisama Heritage Village]], located {{Convert|12|km|abbr=on}} south of the city centre.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.hornbillfestival.com/about-hornbill-festival|title=About Hornbill Festival|website=[[Hornbill Festival]]|access-date=1 January 2022}}</ref>
The Hornbill Festival is the biggest annual festival in North East India. The festival is held every year from 1 to 10 December with the purpose to promote the richness of the Naga heritage and traditions. The main venue is located at the [[Kisama Heritage Village]], located {{Convert|12|km|abbr=on}} south of the city centre.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.hornbillfestival.com/about-hornbill-festival|title=About Hornbill Festival|website=[[Hornbill Festival]]|access-date=1 January 2022}}</ref>


===Fashion===
=== Fashion ===
The inhabitants of Kohima have been historically characterized as "fashion-conscious". Numerous fashion stores are located across the city and a number of fashion related events are held annually. The southern wards starting from Main Town and beyond are the most fashionable areas of Kohima.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://rootsandleisure.com/winter-fashion-in-nagaland/|date=22 October 2018|title=Winter Fashion For All Ages: Cosy Up And Take A Cue From These Stylish Local Folks from Kohima|website=[[Roots and Leisure]]|access-date=3 January 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://morungexpress.com/empyrean-couture-fallwinter-2021|date=30 September 2021|title=Empyrean Couture: Fall/Winter 2021|website=[[The Morung Express]]|access-date=3 January 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.nagalandpost.com/louis-philippe-outlet-opened-in-kohima/241710.html|date=4 October 2021|title=Louis Philippe outlet opened in Kohima|website=[[Nagaland Post]]|access-date=3 January 2022}}</ref>
The inhabitants of Kohima have been historically characterized as "fashion-conscious". Numerous fashion stores are located across the city and a number of fashion related events are held annually. The southern wards starting from Main Town and beyond are the most fashionable areas of Kohima.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://rootsandleisure.com/winter-fashion-in-nagaland/|date=22 October 2018|title=Winter Fashion For All Ages: Cosy Up And Take A Cue From These Stylish Local Folks from Kohima|website=[[Roots and Leisure]]|access-date=3 January 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://morungexpress.com/empyrean-couture-fallwinter-2021|date=30 September 2021|title=Empyrean Couture: Fall/Winter 2021|website=[[The Morung Express]]|access-date=3 January 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.nagalandpost.com/louis-philippe-outlet-opened-in-kohima/241710.html|date=4 October 2021|title=Louis Philippe outlet opened in Kohima|website=[[Nagaland Post]]|access-date=3 January 2022|archive-date=3 January 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220103110420/https://www.nagalandpost.com/louis-philippe-outlet-opened-in-kohima/241710.html|url-status=dead}}</ref>


===Museums===
=== Museums ===
The [[Nagaland State Museum]] is located in [[Bayavü Hill Ward|Bayavü Hill]] and displays a comprehensive collection of artefacts including ancient sculptures, traditional dresses, inscriptions of the Naga people.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.abhijna-emuseum.com/museums-of-india/nagaland-state-museum-window-material-socio-cultural-world-naga-tribes/|title=Nagaland State Museum : A window to the material and socio-cultural world of the Naga tribes|website=|access-date=1 January 2022}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.incredibleindia.org/content/incredible-india-v2/en/destinations/kohima/the-state-museum.html|title=The State Museum|website=[[Incredible India]]|access-date=1 January 2022}}</ref>
The [[Nagaland State Museum]] is located in [[Bayavü Hill Ward|Bayavü Hill]] and displays a comprehensive collection of artefacts including ancient sculptures, traditional dresses, inscriptions of the Naga people.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.abhijna-emuseum.com/museums-of-india/nagaland-state-museum-window-material-socio-cultural-world-naga-tribes/|title=Nagaland State Museum : A window to the material and socio-cultural world of the Naga tribes|website=|date=24 March 2018 |access-date=1 January 2022}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.incredibleindia.org/content/incredible-india-v2/en/destinations/kohima/the-state-museum.html|title=The State Museum|website=[[Incredible India]]|access-date=1 January 2022}}</ref>
 
===Religious sites===
[[file:KABA 2.jpg|thumb|center|[[Kohima Ao Baptist Church]]]]
The [[Mary Help of Christians Cathedral, Kohima|Mary Help of Christians Cathedral]] or commonly known as the Kohima Cathedral is a prominent landmark in Kohima. The 16 feet high carved wood crucifix is one of Asia's largest crosses. It is the biggest Catholic church in Nagaland and was constructed in 1998.


=== Religious sites ===
[[File:KABA 2.jpg|thumb|[[Kohima Ao Baptist Church]]]]
The [[Mary Help of Christians Cathedral, Kohima|Mary Help of Christians Cathedral]] or commonly known as the Kohima Cathedral is a prominent landmark in Kohima. The 16 feet high carved wood crucifix is one of Asia's largest crosses. It is the biggest Catholic church in Nagaland and was constructed in 1998.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://easternpanorama.in/index.php/special-section/110-kohima-cathedral-nagaland|title=Kohima Cathedral (Nagaland)|date=30 November 2009|publisher=Eastern Panaroma|access-date=17 December 2024}}</ref>
There are numerous Protestant churches in Kohima. [[Kohima Ao Baptist Church]] and [[Kohima Lotha Baptist Church]] are some of the biggest churches in Kohima.
There are numerous Protestant churches in Kohima. [[Kohima Ao Baptist Church]] and [[Kohima Lotha Baptist Church]] are some of the biggest churches in Kohima.


The [[Jain Temple Kohima|Kohima Jain Temple]], the oldest  
The [[Jain Temple Kohima|Kohima Jain Temple]], the oldest  
[[Jainism|Jain]] temple in North East India was established in 1920.
[[Jainism|Jain]] temple in North East India was established in 1920.<ref>{{cite book | last=Sethi | first=Raj Kumar | url={{Google books|kio4EAAAQBAJ|pg=PP10|plainurl=yes}} | title=100 years of Jainism in Nagaland - (A journey from 1885 to 1985) | publisher=Walnut Publication | year=2021 | isbn=978-93-91522-04-9}}</ref>


==Media==
== Media ==
The most widely circulated newspapers in Kohima are ''[[The Morung Express]]'', ''[[Nagaland Post]]'', ''[[Eastern Mirror]]'', ''[[Nagaland Page]]'' and the local newspaper ''[[Capi (newspaper)|Capi]]''. The city was also home to the now defunct ''[[Kewhira Dielie]]'', the first modern newspaper published from Nagaland.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://easternmirrornagaland.com/media-in-nagaland-challenges-and-opportunities/|title=Media in Nagaland: Challenges and Opportunities|date=28 February 2021|newspaper=[[Eastern Mirror]]|access-date=12 April 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://morungexpress.com/journalism-writing-needs-reflect-societal-realities-and-struggles|date=29 November 2019|title=Journalism, writing needs to reflect on societal realities and struggles|newspaper=[[The Morung Express]]|access-date=12 April 2022}}</ref>
The most widely circulated newspapers in Kohima are ''[[The Morung Express]]'', ''[[Nagaland Post]]'', ''[[Eastern Mirror]]'', ''[[Nagaland Page]]'' and the local newspaper ''[[Capi (newspaper)|Capi]]''. The city was also home to the now defunct ''[[Kewhira Dielie]]'', the first modern newspaper published from Nagaland.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://easternmirrornagaland.com/media-in-nagaland-challenges-and-opportunities/|title=Media in Nagaland: Challenges and Opportunities|date=28 February 2021|newspaper=[[Eastern Mirror]]|access-date=12 April 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://morungexpress.com/journalism-writing-needs-reflect-societal-realities-and-struggles|date=29 November 2019|title=Journalism, writing needs to reflect on societal realities and struggles|newspaper=[[The Morung Express]]|access-date=12 April 2022}}</ref>


Kohima is home to several television networks: Nagaland Cornerstone TV, [[Doordarshan|Doordarshan Kendra Kohima]] which operates the [[DD Nagaland]], etc.
Kohima is home to several television networks: Nagaland Cornerstone TV, [[Doordarshan|Doordarshan Kendra Kohima]] which operates the [[DD Nagaland]], etc.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://morungexpress.com/nagaland-cornerstone-tv-launched-highland-dawn-media|title=Nagaland Cornerstone TV launched by Highland Dawn Media|date=13 April 2016|newspaper=[[The Morung Express]]|access-date=17 December 2024}}</ref>


State-owned [[All India Radio]] has a local station in Kohima, which transmits various programs of mass interest like ''[[AIR FM Tragopan]]'', etc.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.easternmirrornagaland.com/air-launches-new-radio-programme-fm-tragopan/|title=AIR launches new radio programme FM Tragopan|date=3 October 2017|newspaper=[[Eastern Mirror]]|access-date=12 April 2022}}</ref>
State-owned [[All India Radio]] has a local station in Kohima, which transmits various programs of mass interest like ''[[AIR FM Tragopan]]'', etc.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.easternmirrornagaland.com/air-launches-new-radio-programme-fm-tragopan/|title=AIR launches new radio programme FM Tragopan|date=3 October 2017|newspaper=[[Eastern Mirror]]|access-date=12 April 2022}}</ref>


==Transportation==
== Transportation ==
===Airports===
The major public transportation in Kohima are buses and taxis.
Kohima is served by the [[Dimapur Airport]] located in [[Chümoukedima]]–[[Dimapur]], {{convert|74|km|mi|abbr=off}} from the city centre of Kohima. The currently under construction [[Kohima Chiethu Airport]] once completed will serve as the main airport for the Greater Kohima Metropolitan Area.


===Roadways===
=== Airports ===
Kohima is connected by road with [[National Highway 2 (India)|NH 2]] and [[National Highway 29 (India)|NH 29]] which pass through the city. The [[Dimapur–Kohima Expressway]] is a tolled expressway connecting Kohima with Dimapur.
Kohima is served by the [[Dimapur Airport]] located in [[Chümoukedima]][[Dimapur]], {{convert|74|km|mi|abbr=off}} from the city centre of Kohima. The currently under construction [[Kohima Chiethu Airport]] once completed will serve as the main airport for the Greater Kohima Metropolitan Area.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.nagalandpost.com/proposed-chiethu-airport-gets-aai-to-prepare-dpr/222926.html|title=Proposed Chiethu airport gets AAI to prepare DPR|newspaper=[[Nagaland Post]]|date=7 October 2020|access-date=17 December 2024|archive-date=19 December 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241219195620/https://www.nagalandpost.com/proposed-chiethu-airport-gets-aai-to-prepare-dpr/222926.html|url-status=dead}}</ref>


====Highways passing through Kohima====
=== Roadways ===
Kohima is connected by road with [[National Highway 2 (India)|NH 2]] and [[National Highway 29 (India)|NH 29]] which pass through the city. The [[Dimapur–Kohima Highway]] is a tolled highway connecting Kohima with Dimapur.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://easternmirrornagaland.com/dimapur-kohima-superhighway-gets-cceas-nod-after-10-years/|title=Dimapur-Kohima superhighway gets CCEA's nod after 10 years|website=[[Eastern Mirror]]|date=25 July 2013|access-date=17 December 2024}}</ref>
 
==== Highways passing through Kohima ====
* [[File:Tabliczka AH1.svg|30px]] [[Asian Highway 1]]: [[Tokyo]]  – Kohima  – [[Istanbul]]
* [[File:Tabliczka AH1.svg|30px]] [[Asian Highway 1]]: [[Tokyo]]  – Kohima  – [[Istanbul]]
* [[File:Tabliczka AH2.svg|30px]] [[Asian Highway 2]]: [[Denpasar]] – Kohima  - [[Khosravi, Kermanshah|Khosravi]]
* [[File:Tabliczka AH2.svg|30px]] [[Asian Highway 2]]: [[Denpasar]] – Kohima  - [[Khosravi, Kermanshah|Khosravi]]
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* {{jct|country=IND|NH|29}}: [[Dabaka|Dabaka (Assam)]] – Kohima – [[Jessami|Jessami (Manipur)]]
* {{jct|country=IND|NH|29}}: [[Dabaka|Dabaka (Assam)]] – Kohima – [[Jessami|Jessami (Manipur)]]


===Rail===
=== Rail ===
{{main|Kohima Zubza Railway Station}}
{{main|Kohima Zubza Railway Station}}
Kohima is not connected with the rail network. The nearest railway stations are the [[Chümoukedima Shokhuvi Railway Station]] and the [[Dimapur railway station|Dimapur Railway Station]]. An extension of the railway line from Dimapur to Kohima was proposed and surveyed in 2009.<ref>{{cite news | url=http://www.easternmirrornagaland.com/2013/07/slow-train-ride-zubza-2/ | title=Slow Train Ride to Zubza | date=26 July 2013 | first=Neidilhoutuo | last=Sechü | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141204175142/http://www.easternmirrornagaland.com/2013/07/slow-train-ride-zubza-2/ | archive-date=4 December 2014 | newspaper=Eastern Mirror | access-date=23 May 2018 }}</ref> Due to a dispute over land acquisition the track was resurveyed and an alternative alignment was proposed in 2013 and is expected to be completed by 2026.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.nagalandpost.com/railways-to-reach-kohima-soon-says-nfr-gm/245806.html|title=Railways to reach Kohima soon, says NFR GM|date=2 December 2021|newspaper=[[Nagaland Post]]|access-date=1 January 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://m.economictimes.com/industry/transportation/railways/dimapurkohima-new-bg-railway-line-project-to-be-completed-by-march-2026/articleshow/87874467.cms|title=Dimapur–Kohima new BG railway line project to be completed by March 2026|date=23 November 2021|newspaper=[[The Economic Times]]|access-date=1 January 2022}}</ref> Once completed the [[Kohima Zubza Railway Station]] on the [[Dhansiri–Zubza line|Dhansiri–Zubza Line]] will serve as the main railway station of Kohima.
Kohima is not connected with the rail network. The nearest railway stations are the [[Shokhüvi Railway Station|Chümoukedima Shokhüvi Railway Station]] and the [[Dimapur railway station|Dimapur Railway Station]]. An extension of the railway line from Dimapur to Kohima was proposed and surveyed in 2009.<ref>{{cite news | url=http://www.easternmirrornagaland.com/2013/07/slow-train-ride-zubza-2/ | title=Slow Train Ride to Zubza | date=26 July 2013 | first=Neidilhoutuo | last=Sechü | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141204175142/http://www.easternmirrornagaland.com/2013/07/slow-train-ride-zubza-2/ | archive-date=4 December 2014 | newspaper=Eastern Mirror | access-date=23 May 2018 }}</ref> Due to a dispute over land acquisition, the track was resurveyed and an alternative alignment was proposed in 2013 and is expected to be completed by 2026.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Construction work at Dimapur-Kohima new rail line going in full swing |url=https://www.deccanherald.com/india/construction-work-at-dimapur-kohima-new-rail-line-going-in-full-swing-1204587.html#:~:text=Indian%20Railways%20is%20significantly%20contributing,to%20be%20completed%20by%202026. |access-date=2025-03-28 |website=Deccan Herald |language=en}}</ref> Once completed the [[Kohima Zubza Railway Station]] on the [[Dhansiri–Zubza line|Dhansiri–Zubza Line]] will serve as the main railway station of Kohima.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.nagalandpost.com/railways-to-reach-kohima-soon-says-nfr-gm/245806.html|title=Railways to reach Kohima soon, says NFR GM|date=2 December 2021|newspaper=[[Nagaland Post]]|access-date=1 January 2022|archive-date=1 January 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220101075801/https://www.nagalandpost.com/railways-to-reach-kohima-soon-says-nfr-gm/245806.html|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/industry/transportation/railways/dimapurkohima-new-bg-railway-line-project-to-be-completed-by-march-2026/articleshow/87874467.cms|title=Dimapur–Kohima new BG railway line project to be completed by March 2026|date=23 November 2021|newspaper=[[The Economic Times]]|access-date=1 January 2022}}</ref>


===Cycling===
=== Cycling ===
Regardless of its hilly terrain, [[cycling]] has become an increasingly popular way to get in and around Kohima. A [[bicycle-sharing system]] was launched in September 2020.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.eastmojo.com/news/2020/09/25/nagaland-a-step-towards-making-kohima-smart-city-a-hub-for-cycling/|title=Nagaland: A step towards making Kohima smart city a hub for cycling|date=25 September 2020|website=East Mojo|access-date=30 July 2021}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.morungexpress.com/nagaland-capital-kohima-among-indias-top-11-cycling-pioneers|title=Nagaland capital Kohima among India's Top 11 Cycling Pioneers|date=28 July 2021|website=[[The Morung Express]]|access-date=30 July 2021}}</ref>
Regardless of its hilly terrain, [[cycling]] has become an increasingly popular way to get in and around Kohima. A [[bicycle-sharing system]] was launched in September 2020.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Ambrocia |first=Medolenuo |date=25 September 2020 |title=Nagaland: A step towards making Kohima smart city a hub for cycling |url=https://www.eastmojo.com/news/2020/09/25/nagaland-a-step-towards-making-kohima-smart-city-a-hub-for-cycling/ |access-date=30 July 2021 |website=East Mojo}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.morungexpress.com/nagaland-capital-kohima-among-indias-top-11-cycling-pioneers|title=Nagaland capital Kohima among India's Top 11 Cycling Pioneers|date=28 July 2021|website=[[The Morung Express]]|access-date=30 July 2021}}</ref>


==Education==
== Education ==
{{See also|List of higher education and academic institutions in Kohima}}
{{See also|List of higher education and academic institutions in Kohima}}
As the state capital, and one of the hub on inter-state migration, the city has many educational institutions.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://kohima.nic.in/education/|title=www.kohima.nic.in|website=Education|access-date=17 December 2024}}</ref>


Kohima is home to some of the most prestigious educational institutions in Nagaland.
=== Universities and Colleges ===
 
* [[Nagaland Institute of Medical Science and Research]]
===Universities and Colleges===
* [[Nagaland Medical College]]
* [[Model Christian College, Kohima|Model Christian College]]
* [[Model Christian College, Kohima|Model Christian College]]
* [[Alder College]]
* Alder College
* [[Baptist College, Kohima|Baptist College]]
* [[Baptist College, Kohima|Baptist College]]
*[[Capital College of Higher Education]]
*[[Capital College of Higher Education]]
Line 467: Line 464:
* [[Modern College, Kohima|Modern College]]
* [[Modern College, Kohima|Modern College]]
* [[Kohima Law College]]
* [[Kohima Law College]]
 
* [[Don Bosco College, Kohima]]
The following are major Universities and Colleges located in the Greater Kohima Metropolitan Area:
The following are major Universities and Colleges located in the Greater Kohima Metropolitan Area:
* [[St. Joseph's College, Jakhama|St. Joseph's College]], [[Jakhama]]
* [[St. Joseph's College, Jakhama|St. Joseph's College]], [[Jakhama]]
Line 475: Line 473:
* [[Nagaland University]], Meriema Campus
* [[Nagaland University]], Meriema Campus


===Notable secondary schools===
=== Notable secondary schools ===
*[[Ministers' Hill Baptist Higher Secondary School]]
* [[Ministers' Hill Baptist Higher Secondary School]]
*Little Flower Higher Secondary School
* [[Little Flower Higher Secondary School, Kohima|Little Flower Higher Secondary School]]
*[[Mezhür Higher Secondary School]]
* [[Mezhür Higher Secondary School]]
*Rüzhükhrie Government Higher Secondary School
* [[Rüzhükhrie Government Higher Secondary School]]
*Fernwood School
* [[Fernwood School, Kohima|Fernwood School]]
*G. Rio School
* [[G. Rio School]]
*Dainty Buds School
* [[Dainty Buds School]]
*Vineyard School
* [[Vineyard School]]
*Northfield School
* [[Northfield School, Kohima|Northfield School]]
*Coraggio School
* [[Coraggio School]]
*Stella Higher Secondary School
* [[Stella Higher Secondary School]]
*Chandmari Higher Secondary School
* [[Chandmari Higher Secondary School]]
*Mount Sinai Higher Secondary School
* [[Mount Sinai Higher Secondary School]]
*Bethel Higher Secondary School
* [[Bethel Higher Secondary School]]


==Sports==
== Sports ==
[[Indira Gandhi Stadium, Kohima|Indira Gandhi Stadium]], inaugurated in 2003 is the multipurpose stadium of the city. It includes a [[All-weather running track|running track]] and a [[Football field (area)|football field]].
The [[Indira Gandhi Stadium (Kohima)|Indira Gandhi Stadium]], inaugurated in 2003 is the multipurpose stadium of the city. It includes a [[All-weather running track|running track]] and a [[Football field (area)|football field]].<ref>{{Cite web|last1=Parashar |first1=Utpal|title=Nagaland: Kohima Village Council against rechristening of Indira Gandhi Stadium|url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/nagaland-kohima-village-council-against-rechristening-of-indira-gandhi-stadium/story-SBNF9DUsIUFjTqDWS6KXrO.html|website=[[Hindustan Times]]|date=29 March 2018|access-date=17 December 2024}}</ref>


===Football===
=== Football ===
Kohima is home to [[Kohima Komets]], a [[association football|football]] club that plays in the top division [[Nagaland Premier League]].
Kohima is home to [[Kohima Komets]], an [[association football]] club that plays in the top division [[Nagaland Premier League]].<ref>{{Cite web|last1=Chaudhuri |first1=Arunava|title=Nagaland Premier League kicks-off in March|url=https://www.sportskeeda.com/sports/nagaland-premier-league-kicks-off-in-march|website=www.sportskeeda.com|date=27 February 2012|access-date=17 December 2024}}</ref>


===Wrestling===
=== Wrestling ===
The [[Kene (Naga wrestling)|Naga wrestling]] enjoys widespread popularity in Kohima with people from all over Nagaland coming to witness the [[Naga Wrestling Championship]] held every two years at the [[Khuochiezhie|Khuochiezhie Local Ground]] located in the heart of Kohima. The first Naga Wrestling Tournament was held in Kohima in 1971.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://morungexpress.com/naga-wrestling-highest-grossing-sport-nagaland|title=Naga Wrestling: The highest grossing sport in Nagaland|date=13 February 2020|website=[[The Morung Express]]|access-date=30 July 2021}}</ref>
[[Kene (Naga wrestling)|Naga wrestling]] enjoys widespread popularity in Kohima with people from all over Nagaland coming to witness the [[Naga Wrestling Championship]] held every two years at [[Khuochiezie]] (Kohima Local Ground). The tournament was organised in 1971.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Tsükrü Kense |first=Atono |date=13 February 2020 |title=Naga Wrestling: The highest grossing sport in Nagaland |url=https://morungexpress.com/naga-wrestling-highest-grossing-sport-nagaland |access-date=30 July 2021 |website=[[The Morung Express]]}}</ref>


==See also==
== Notable people ==
{{main|List of people from Kohima}}


== See also ==
{{Portal|Geography|Asia|India}}
* [[Outline of Kohima]]
* [[Outline of Kohima]]
* [[Municipal Wards of Kohima]]
* [[Municipal Wards of Kohima]]
* [[Index of Kohima-related articles]]
* [[Index of Kohima-related articles]]


==References==
== References ==
{{Reflist}}
{{Reflist}}


==Further reading==
== Further reading ==
* {{cite book |last=Swinson |first=Arthur |year=2015 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=BfWlBgAAQBAJ&q=kohima |title=Kohima |location=London |publisher=Head of Zeus|isbn=9781784081775 }} From [[Google Books]].
* {{cite book |last=Swinson |first=Arthur |year=2015 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=BfWlBgAAQBAJ&q=kohima |title=Kohima |location=London |publisher=Head of Zeus|isbn=9781784081775 }} From [[Google Books]].
* {{cite book |author-link= |last=Edwards |first=Leslie |year=2009 |title=Kohima: The Furthest Battle: The Story of the Japanese invasion of India in 1944 and the 'British-Indian Thermopylae' |location=Cheltenham |publisher=The History Press |isbn=978-0-7509-5260-6}}


* {{cite book |author-link=Leslie Edwards |last=Edwards |first=Leslie |year=2009 |title=Kohima: The Furthest Battle: The Story of the Japanese invasion of India in 1944 and the 'British-Indian Thermopylae' |location=Cheltenham |publisher=The History Press |isbn=978-0-7509-5260-6}}
== External links ==
{{Sister project links|voy=Kohima|collapsible=true}}


==External links==
*{{Commons category-inline|Kohima}}
*{{Wikivoyage-inline|Kohima}}
===Official site===
*[https://web.archive.org/web/20070419164533/http://kohima.nic.in/profile.htm Official website]
*[https://web.archive.org/web/20070419164533/http://kohima.nic.in/profile.htm Official website]
*[https://www.kohimasmartcity.com/ Kohima Smart City] (Official website)
{{North East India}}
{{North East India}}
<!--start of Navigation boxes-->{{clear}}
{{State and Union Territory capitals of India}}
{{State and Union Territory capitals of India}}
<!--end of Navigation boxes-->
{{Authority control}}
{{Authority control}}



Latest revision as of 17:14, 27 March 2026


Kohima
Kewhira
City of Kohima
Kohima skyline from Kohima Village
Vertical cityscape of Kohima
Motto: 
"Work is Pride"
Kohima is located in Nagaland
Kohima
Kohima
Location of Kohima in Nagaland
Kohima is located in India
Kohima
Kohima
Kohima (India)
Coordinates: 25°40′N 94°06′E / 25.67°N 94.10°E / 25.67; 94.10
Country India
RegionNortheast India
StateNagaland
DistrictKohima District
Divisions19 municipal wards
Government
 • TypeMunicipality
 • BodyKohima Municipal Council
 • ChairpersonNeikhozo Suokhrie (Naga People's Front)
 • Deputy ChairpersonKhrielievi Chüsi (Naga People's Front)
 • AdministratorLanusenla Longkümer
Area
 • Total20 km2 (8 sq mi)
Elevation
1,444 m (4,738 ft)
Population
 (2011)[1]
 • Total115,283
 • Density5,800/km2 (15,000/sq mi)
Demonym(s)Kohimian
kewhi–mia
Languages
 • OfficialEnglish
 • Major languagesAngamiAoChakhesangLothaSümi
Time zoneUTC+5:30 (IST)
PIN
797001
Telephone code91 (0)370
Vehicle registrationNL-01
Sex ratio927 /
ClimateTemperate (Köppen)
Websitekmc.nagaland.gov.in

Kohima (/kˈhmə/ (About this soundlisten); Tenyidie: Kewhira (njm)) is the capital of the North East Indian state of Nagaland. With a resident population of almost 100,000, it is the second largest city in the state.[1] Kohima constitutes both a district and a municipality. The municipality covers 20 km2 (7.7 sq mi). The city lies on the foothills of Japfü section of the Barail Range located south of the district (25°40′N 94°07′E / 25.67°N 94.12°E / 25.67; 94.12)[2] and has an average elevation of 1,261 m (4,137 ft).[3]

Originally known as Kewhira, the city's history goes back to a time when it was a village of the Angami Nagas. It became an urban centre in 1878 when the British Empire established its headquarters of the then Naga Hills District of Assam Province. Kohima was the site of one of the bloodiest battles of World War II during the Japanese U-Go offensive into British India in 1944. The battle is often referred to as the Stalingrad of the East.[4][5] In 2013, the British National Army Museum voted the Battle of Kohima to be Britain's Greatest Battle.[6]

It officially became Nagaland's capital after the state was inaugurated in 1963.

Etymology[edit | edit source]

Kohima was originally known as Kewhi–ra.[7][8] People from different places and directions came in search of a place to settle down and formed a homogenous group that necessitated the establishment of a village. They named it Kewhira which is derived from the Angami word kephfükewhi which means to "meet and assemble together" and ra means "village" with its area jurisdiction.[9] The people of Kewhira are called Kewhimia (mia means people) who are the indigenous inhabitants and hereditarily owned the land of Kewhira.[10]

History[edit | edit source]

Medieval era[edit | edit source]

According to oral history, the historical founder of Kewhira (Kohima Village) was Tsiera (stone defender). The village is said to be more than 700 years old and is believed to be the second largest village in Asia.[10] The village is divided into four large clans (thinuo): Tsütuonuomia, Lhisemia, Dapfhütsumia and Pfüchatsumia (T, L, D, and P Khel respectively).[11]

Colonial era[edit | edit source]

The East India Company Administration started to expand into Kohima beginning the 1840s.[12] The progress made by the company armies in annexing the region continued after the Indian Rebellion of 1857, although now under the auspices of the British Indian Army. Kohima was the first seat of modern administration as the Headquarters of Naga Hills District (then under Assam Province) with the appointment of Guybon Henry Damant as Political Officer in 1879.[13]

Battle of Kohima[edit | edit source]

In 1944 during the Second World War the Battle of Kohima along with the simultaneous Battle of Imphal was the turning point in the Burma Campaign.[14] For the first time in South-East Asia, the Japanese lost the initiative to the Allies, which the Allies then retained until the end of the war. This hand-to-hand battle and slaughter prevented the Japanese Army from gaining a base from which they might have easily gone into the plains of India.[15]

Kohima War Cemetery

Kohima has a large cemetery known as the Kohima War Cemetery for the Allied war dead; it is maintained by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission.[16] The cemetery lies on the slopes of Garrison Hill, in what was once the Deputy Commissioner's tennis court, which was the scene of intense fighting known as the Battle of the Tennis Court. The epitaph carved on the memorial of the 2nd British Division in the cemetery has become world-famous as the Kohima poem.

When You Go Home, Tell Them of Us and Say,

For Your Tomorrow, We Gave Our Today.

The verse is attributed to John Maxwell Edmonds (1875–1958), and is thought to have been inspired by the epitaph written by Simonides to honour the Greek who fell at the Battle of Thermopylae in 480 BC.[17]

1963–present[edit | edit source]

When Nagaland became a full-fledged state on 1 December 1963, Kohima was named as the state capital.[18]

Killings of Kekuojalie Sachü and Vikhozo Yhoshü[edit | edit source]

On 20 March 1986, two students Kekuojalie Sachü (19) and Vikhozo Yhoshü (14) were killed and over 50 others were injured in indiscriminate firing by Nagaland Police when they participated in a peaceful protest called by the Naga Students' Federation (NSF) to rally against the state government's decision on the introduction of Indian Police Service (IPS) cadres and the extension of the Disturbed Area Belt from 5 to 20 km along the Indo-Myanmar (Indo-Burma) border. The event was so tumultuous that it led three Cabinet ministers and five State Ministers of Nagaland to resign.[19]

1995 Kohima Massacre[edit | edit source]

On 5 March 1995, when a convoy of the 16th Rashtriya Rifles of the Indian Army, comprising 63 vehicles with 5 officers, 15 junior commissioned officers and approximately 400 soldiers was traversing through the densely populated AOC and BOC areas of Kohima en route from Bishnupur to Dimapur, a tyre burst from one of the convoy's own vehicle led the armed troops to mistake the sound of the tyre bursting for a bomb attack by insurgents. The troops reacted immediately and started firing at civilian populace. The firing lasted approximately 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m., during which the soldiers discharged 1,207 rounds of gunfire and 5 mortal shells into civilian areas. A total of 7 were killed and 36 were left injured. Eyewitness accounts and subsequent investigations found no evidence of an actual ambush or crossfire with insurgents. The incident is widely referred to as the 1995 Kohima Massacre.[20][21]

2017 Nagaland protests[edit | edit source]

On 2 February 2017, the office building of the Kohima Municipal Council was burned down by a mob as part of the boycott of the Civic Elections. The fire significantly damaged adjoining government and private buildings.[22][23] On 19 February, in response against the backdrop of widespread protests and civil unrest in the state, T. R. Zeliang announced his resignation as the Chief Minister of Nagaland.[24][25]

2023 Kohima fire[edit | edit source]

On 27 February 2023, a massive fire broke in Mao Market and NN Market, one of the biggest commercial areas in Kohima, causing complete damage to the markets.[26]

Geography[edit | edit source]

Topography[edit | edit source]

Kohima is located at 25°67' North, 94°10' East, in the southern part of Nagaland. It lies north of the JapfüBarail intersection with Pulie Badze to the southwest overlooking the city. The hills on which Kohima is located has an elevation ranging from 1,345 to 1,560 metres (4,413 to 5,118 feet).[27]

Climate[edit | edit source]

The city experiences a subtropical highland climate (Köppen: Cwb), with greater contrast between summer and winter than in other continents due to the monsoons but mild temperatures even for latitude and altitude. The months of June to September concentrate much of the precipitation.[28]

Climate data for Kohima (1991–2020, extremes 1952–2020)
Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Year
Record high °C (°F) 24.5
(76.1)
25.0
(77.0)
29.1
(84.4)
32.2
(90.0)
33.9
(93.0)
30.5
(86.9)
33.1
(91.6)
31.1
(88.0)
31.0
(87.8)
31.5
(88.7)
29.5
(85.1)
26.0
(78.8)
33.9
(93.0)
Average high °C (°F) 16.1
(61.0)
19.0
(66.2)
23.5
(74.3)
25.2
(77.4)
25.1
(77.2)
26.0
(78.8)
25.8
(78.4)
26.2
(79.2)
25.6
(78.1)
24.2
(75.6)
21.8
(71.2)
17.0
(62.6)
22.8
(73.0)
Average low °C (°F) 5.1
(41.2)
6.6
(43.9)
10.6
(51.1)
13.3
(55.9)
14.7
(58.5)
16.7
(62.1)
17.2
(63.0)
17.2
(63.0)
16.4
(61.5)
13.5
(56.3)
8.8
(47.8)
5.2
(41.4)
11.9
(53.4)
Record low °C (°F) 0.6
(33.1)
2.3
(36.1)
4.0
(39.2)
5.0
(41.0)
8.3
(46.9)
9.4
(48.9)
7.8
(46.0)
8.3
(46.9)
7.5
(45.5)
5.0
(41.0)
3.1
(37.6)
0.7
(33.3)
0.6
(33.1)
Average rainfall mm (inches) 12.1
(0.48)
28.5
(1.12)
48.6
(1.91)
100.1
(3.94)
188.5
(7.42)
248.3
(9.78)
334.7
(13.18)
344.0
(13.54)
268.2
(10.56)
125.2
(4.93)
22.9
(0.90)
6.4
(0.25)
1,727.6
(68.02)
Average rainy days 1.4 3.0 4.6 9.2 13.8 17.7 20.7 19.0 16.1 8.0 1.8 0.7 116.1
Average relative humidity (%) 74 67 65 70 77 85 88 88 86 83 76 71 78
Source: India Meteorological Department (humidity 1961-1990)[29][30][31]

Kohima has been ranked 36th best “National Clean Air City” under (Category 3 population under 3 lakhs cities) in India.[32]

Environment[edit | edit source]

Water supply and availability[edit | edit source]

Most Wards in Kohima experiences severe water shortages during the dry seasons.[33] The current water resources from the reservoirs of Zarü River and the streams from the slopes of Pulie Badze do not fulfill the needs of the rapidly growing population of Kohima. With the augmentation of the Zarü River project and several other upcoming water projects to be supplied from Dzüko Valley and others. The water supply is expected to cover more wards.[34]

Administration[edit | edit source]

The Kohima Municipal Council (KMC) was established in 2005 under India's Constitution (Seventy-Fourth Amendment) Act, 1992. It has waste management, drainage and trade licensing and other responsibilities.[35][36]

Other departments of the state government, which sit in Kohima, also have a role in the administration of Kohima.[36] The "City Development Plan" for the town, for example, was written by state Urban Development Department.[37]

Wards[edit | edit source]

Kohima is divided into nineteen sectors with a total of thirty-three administrative wards under the authority of the Kohima Municipal Council, covering an area of about 35 km2 (14 sq mi). Each ward has its own council government and handles many of the functions that are handled by city governments in other jurisdictions.[38]

Public safety[edit | edit source]

Police and law enforcement[edit | edit source]

The Kohima Police of the Nagaland Police is the police force responsible for maintaining security, law and order in the Kohima Metropolitan Area. It is headed by a Superintendent of Police (SP). Kevithuto Sophie is the current SP of Kohima. The municipal area of Kohima is served by two police stations—Kohima North Police Station and Kohima South Police Station.[39]

In 2020, the Kohima North Police Station became the first police station and a government facility in the entire North Eastern Region of India to receive the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 9001 Certification for quality management system.[40][41]

Governance[edit | edit source]

Nagaland's traditional governance system persists in rural areas and urban Kohima through ward panchayats. Each ward elects a panchayat chairman every five years by a show of hands, who then appoints officials, including joint secretaries and Gaon Burhas (GBs). Recognized by the District Commissioner, ward panchayats oversee peaceful community coexistence, resolve disputes, and communicate community concerns to the government. GBs manage house tax collection due to their familiarity with households. These traditional bodies are integral to development work within their wards and hold meetings as needed. Institutionalizing them under the municipal act could formalize their roles, transferring councillors' duties to panchayat chairmen and integrating them into municipal councils as ward committees.[42]   The Kohima Town Committee (KTC) was established in 1957 with 8 wards, 8 elected members, and 4 government nominees. Key pioneers include Shri Yusuf Ali as the first Ex-Officio Chairman, Late Dr. Neilhouzhu Kire as the first Vice-Chairman (1957–1967), and Late Joseph Jasokie as the first elected Chairman (1982–1983).[43]

In 2005, Kohima's first municipality was formed under the Nagaland Municipal Act, 2001, with 19 elected councillors. The Kohima Municipal Council (KMC) remains in a transitional phase, with its powers and functions under the 74th Constitutional Amendment Act yet to be fully transferred by state government departments.

Currently, KMC governs 19 wards, covering nearly 11 sq. km (17% of the greater Kohima planning area) with a population of 98,000 as per the 2011 census.[44]

Demographics[edit | edit source]

Census data[edit | edit source]

Historical population
YearPop.±%
19102,423—    
19202,790+15.1%
19302,759−1.1%
19403,507+27.1%
19504,125+17.6%
19607,246+75.7%
197021,545+197.3%
198034,340+59.4%
199051,418+49.7%
200077,030+49.8%
201099,039+28.6%
Kohima Decadal Growth:[45]

As of 2011, Kohima had a population of 99,039 of which males and females were 51,626 and 47,413 respectively. Kohima has an average literacy rate of 90.76%, higher than the national average of 76.55%.[1]

Religion[edit | edit source]

Religion in Kohima City (2011)[46]

  Christianity (80.22%)
  Hinduism (16.09%)
  Islam (3.06%)
  Buddhism (0.45%)
  Jainism (0.01%)
  Sikhism (0.08%)
  Others (0.05%)
  Not stated (0.04%)

The major religion in Kohima is Christianity which is practised by 80.22% of the population. Other religions includes Hinduism (16.09%), Islam (3.06%) and Buddhism (0.45%).[46]

Economy[edit | edit source]

Kohima Central

Tourism[edit | edit source]

Tourism plays an important role in the city's economy. The number of tourists visiting Kohima has been increasing significantly each year.[47]

Cityscape[edit | edit source]

Historical sites[edit | edit source]

Kohima War Cemetery
  • Kohima War Cemetery

Kohima War Cemetery is a memorial dedicated to soldiers of the 2nd British Division of the Allied Forces who died in the Second World War at Kohima in April 1944. There are 1,420 Commonwealth burials of the Second World War at this cemetery.[48]

Old houses in Kohima Village

Parks[edit | edit source]

  • Sakhrie Park

Sakhrie Park is a recreational park located at Middle Tsiepfü Tsiepfhe Ward (Middle AG) located between the Asian Highway 1 and the Tsiepfü Tsiepfhe Road (AG).[49]

  • Sokhriezie Park

Sokhriezie Park is a centrally located lake that sits below the PHQ Junction.[50]

  • Kohima Botanical Garden

Kohima Botanical Garden is located at New Ministers' Hill Ward and is looked after by the Nagaland Forest Department.[51]

Culture[edit | edit source]

Cultural centers[edit | edit source]

The Kohima Capital Cultural Center is a cultural center which has a multipurpose hall that provides various facilities for its citizens.[52] The Regional Centre of Excellence for Music & Performing Arts (RCEMPA) is a contemporary arts and music centre located in Jotsoma, about 6 km (3.7 mi) west of the city centre.[53]

Events and Festivals[edit | edit source]

  • NAJ Cosfest

The NAJ Cosfest is an Otaku-based cosplay festival held every year in the month of July. The annual event was started in 2013 and is organized by the Nagaland Anime Junkies. The cosfest is one of the biggest cosplay festivals in North East India.[54][55]

  • Hornbill Festival

The Hornbill Festival is the biggest annual festival in North East India. The festival is held every year from 1 to 10 December with the purpose to promote the richness of the Naga heritage and traditions. The main venue is located at the Kisama Heritage Village, located 12 km (7.5 mi) south of the city centre.[56]

Fashion[edit | edit source]

The inhabitants of Kohima have been historically characterized as "fashion-conscious". Numerous fashion stores are located across the city and a number of fashion related events are held annually. The southern wards starting from Main Town and beyond are the most fashionable areas of Kohima.[57][58][59]

Museums[edit | edit source]

The Nagaland State Museum is located in Bayavü Hill and displays a comprehensive collection of artefacts including ancient sculptures, traditional dresses, inscriptions of the Naga people.[60][61]

Religious sites[edit | edit source]

Kohima Ao Baptist Church

The Mary Help of Christians Cathedral or commonly known as the Kohima Cathedral is a prominent landmark in Kohima. The 16 feet high carved wood crucifix is one of Asia's largest crosses. It is the biggest Catholic church in Nagaland and was constructed in 1998.[62] There are numerous Protestant churches in Kohima. Kohima Ao Baptist Church and Kohima Lotha Baptist Church are some of the biggest churches in Kohima.

The Kohima Jain Temple, the oldest Jain temple in North East India was established in 1920.[63]

Media[edit | edit source]

The most widely circulated newspapers in Kohima are The Morung Express, Nagaland Post, Eastern Mirror, Nagaland Page and the local newspaper Capi. The city was also home to the now defunct Kewhira Dielie, the first modern newspaper published from Nagaland.[64][65]

Kohima is home to several television networks: Nagaland Cornerstone TV, Doordarshan Kendra Kohima which operates the DD Nagaland, etc.[66]

State-owned All India Radio has a local station in Kohima, which transmits various programs of mass interest like AIR FM Tragopan, etc.[67]

Transportation[edit | edit source]

The major public transportation in Kohima are buses and taxis.

Airports[edit | edit source]

Kohima is served by the Dimapur Airport located in ChümoukedimaDimapur, 74 kilometres (46 miles) from the city centre of Kohima. The currently under construction Kohima Chiethu Airport once completed will serve as the main airport for the Greater Kohima Metropolitan Area.[68]

Roadways[edit | edit source]

Kohima is connected by road with NH 2 and NH 29 which pass through the city. The Dimapur–Kohima Highway is a tolled highway connecting Kohima with Dimapur.[69]

Highways passing through Kohima[edit | edit source]

Rail[edit | edit source]

Kohima is not connected with the rail network. The nearest railway stations are the Chümoukedima Shokhüvi Railway Station and the Dimapur Railway Station. An extension of the railway line from Dimapur to Kohima was proposed and surveyed in 2009.[70] Due to a dispute over land acquisition, the track was resurveyed and an alternative alignment was proposed in 2013 and is expected to be completed by 2026.[71] Once completed the Kohima Zubza Railway Station on the Dhansiri–Zubza Line will serve as the main railway station of Kohima.[72][73]

Cycling[edit | edit source]

Regardless of its hilly terrain, cycling has become an increasingly popular way to get in and around Kohima. A bicycle-sharing system was launched in September 2020.[74][75]

Education[edit | edit source]

As the state capital, and one of the hub on inter-state migration, the city has many educational institutions.[76]

Universities and Colleges[edit | edit source]

The following are major Universities and Colleges located in the Greater Kohima Metropolitan Area:

Notable secondary schools[edit | edit source]

Sports[edit | edit source]

The Indira Gandhi Stadium, inaugurated in 2003 is the multipurpose stadium of the city. It includes a running track and a football field.[77]

Football[edit | edit source]

Kohima is home to Kohima Komets, an association football club that plays in the top division Nagaland Premier League.[78]

Wrestling[edit | edit source]

Naga wrestling enjoys widespread popularity in Kohima with people from all over Nagaland coming to witness the Naga Wrestling Championship held every two years at Khuochiezie (Kohima Local Ground). The tournament was organised in 1971.[79]

Notable people[edit | edit source]

See also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]

  1. 1.0 1.1 1.2 "Kohima City Population Census 2011 - Nagaland". 2011 Census of India. 2015.
  2. "Maps, Weather, and Airports for Kohima, India". Retrieved 10 June 2015.
  3. "Kohima Home NIC". Retrieved 10 June 2015.
  4. Dougherty 2008, p. 159.
  5. Ritter 2017, p. 123
  6. "Britain's Greatest Battles". National Army Museum. Retrieved 15 December 2015.
  7. Nesarikar, Vidya (18 June 2024). "Where heroes lie". The Hindu. ISSN 0971-751X. Retrieved 28 March 2025.
  8. "History | District Kohima, Government of Nagaland | India". Retrieved 31 October 2023.
  9. PTI (14 October 2023). "The original name of Kohima is Kewhira". Nagaland Tribune. Retrieved 28 March 2025.
  10. 10.0 10.1 "The original name of Kohima is Kewhira,' clarifies KVC". The Morung Express. 14 October 2023. Retrieved 15 September 2024.
  11. "Clarification on the founder of Kewhira (Kohima) village". The Morung Express. 30 December 2010. Retrieved 3 April 2023.
  12. Col Ved Prakash, Encyclopaedia of North-East India, Volume 5, Atlantic Publishers & Dist, India, 2007, p. 2158
  13. "BATTLE OF KHONOMA: THE LAST AND FINAL RESISTANCE OF THE NAGAS TO THE BRITISH". Nagaland GK. 5 August 2021. Retrieved 17 December 2024.
  14. Anbarasan Ethirajan, Kohima: Britain's 'forgotten' battle that changed the course of WWII, bbc.com, India, February 13, 2021
  15. Bert Sim, Mosstodloch, Aberdeenshire, Scotland: Pipe Major of the Gordon Highlanders at Kohima: his home is named "Kohima." -- RJWilliams, Slingerlands, NY/USA
  16. CWGC. "Kohima War Cemetery | Cemetery Details". CWGC. Retrieved 28 March 2025.
  17. "Epitaph". Archived from the original on 10 May 2015. Retrieved 10 June 2015.
  18. District Kohima, Demography, kohima.nic.in, India, retrieved February 12, 2021
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  20. Naleo, Villo (23 August 2016). "Nagaland:Remembering Truthfully and Forgiving Generously". Eastern Mirror. Retrieved 5 December 2021.
  21. "Nagaland Timeline - Year 1995". South Asia Terrorism Portal. Retrieved 5 December 2021.
  22. Rutsa, Xavier (3 February 2017). "Violence in Nagaland: Protesters attack government offices in Kohima". The Times of India. Retrieved 24 September 2022.
  23. "Nagaland violence: What is the protest all about? All you need to know". Indian Express. 3 February 2017. Retrieved 24 September 2022.
  24. "Nagaland CM TR Zeliang resigns amid protests: All you need to know about the unrest". First Post. 20 February 2017. Retrieved 24 September 2022.
  25. "TR Zeliang steps down as Nagaland Chief Minister". Centre for Monitoring Indian Economy Pvt. Ltd. 20 February 2017. Retrieved 24 September 2022.
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  27. "Find Out Why Locals in Nagaland Love Trekking to "Pulie Badze" in Jotsoma Village, Kohima". Roots and Leisure. 20 July 2018. Retrieved 1 January 2022.
  28. "Kohima, India Köppen Climate Classification (Weatherbase)". Weatherbase. Retrieved 15 February 2019.
  29. "Climatological Tables of Observatories in India 1991-2020" (PDF). India Meteorological Department. Retrieved 8 April 2024.
  30. "Station: Kohima Climatological Table 1961–1990" (PDF). Climatological Normals 1961–1990. India Meteorological Department. July 2010. pp. 447–448. Archived (PDF) from the original on 16 February 2020. Retrieved 16 February 2020.
  31. "Extremes of Temperature & Rainfall for Indian Stations (Up to 2012)" (PDF). India Meteorological Department. December 2016. p. M158. Archived from the original (PDF) on 5 February 2020. Retrieved 16 February 2020.
  32. "Swachh Vayu Sarvekshan 2024" (PDF). Swachh Vayu Sarvekshan 2024. 7 September 2024.
  33. "Kohima set to become 'smart' sans running water". Nagaland Post. 10 March 2022. Retrieved 24 April 2022.
  34. "Nagaland Chief Minister commissions Kohima water supply project". Eastern Mirror. 27 March 2021. Retrieved 30 July 2021.
  35. "Kohima Municipal Council, Location of Kohima Municipal Council". kohimaonline.in. India Online.
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  37. "Kohima CDP Revised" (PDF). Government of Nagaland. July 2006. Archived from the original (PDF) on 7 January 2012. Retrieved 11 October 2017.
  38. "Map of Kohima". Kohima Municipal Council. Archived from the original on 28 July 2021. Retrieved 1 December 2021.
  39. "SP/CO - NAGALAND POLICE". www.police.nagaland.gov.in. 25 June 2019. Retrieved 12 April 2022.
  40. "North Police Station in Kohima becomes first government agency in Nagaland to receive ISO certification". Eastern Mirror. 19 November 2020. Retrieved 12 April 2022.
  41. "Kohima Police Station Becomes First of Its Kind in North East India to Receive ISO Certification". News18. 23 November 2020. Retrieved 12 April 2022.
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  45. "Census: Population of Kohima". Retrieved 1 January 2022.
  46. 46.0 46.1 "Kohima City religion". Census India 2011. Retrieved 22 July 2021.
  47. "Its a record! Nagaland Hornbill Festival attracts 2.69 lakh visitors". The Financial Express. 11 December 2019. Retrieved 3 January 2022.
  48. "Kohima War Cemetery". Commonwealth War Graves Commission.
  49. "Nagaland: The story of how a garbage dump turns into a recreational park". The Northeast Today. 8 April 2016. Retrieved 1 January 2022.
  50. "Sokhriezie Park inauguration on December 4". The Morung Express. 1 December 2020. Retrieved 13 June 2022.
  51. "Forestry Research - Nagaland Forest Department". forest.nagaland.gov.in. Retrieved 15 April 2022.
  52. "'World Class' Capital Cultural Hall in Nagaland". The Morung Express. 1 December 2021. Retrieved 1 January 2022.
  53. "Rio inaugurates RCEMPA". Eastern Mirror. 16 October 2021. Retrieved 1 January 2022.
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  55. "NAJ Cosfest could be one of the biggest monsoon festivals". Nagaland Post. 8 July 2019. Archived from the original on 19 February 2020. Retrieved 29 April 2020.
  56. "About Hornbill Festival". Hornbill Festival. Retrieved 1 January 2022.
  57. "Winter Fashion For All Ages: Cosy Up And Take A Cue From These Stylish Local Folks from Kohima". Roots and Leisure. 22 October 2018. Retrieved 3 January 2022.
  58. "Empyrean Couture: Fall/Winter 2021". The Morung Express. 30 September 2021. Retrieved 3 January 2022.
  59. "Louis Philippe outlet opened in Kohima". Nagaland Post. 4 October 2021. Archived from the original on 3 January 2022. Retrieved 3 January 2022.
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  64. "Media in Nagaland: Challenges and Opportunities". Eastern Mirror. 28 February 2021. Retrieved 12 April 2022.
  65. "Journalism, writing needs to reflect on societal realities and struggles". The Morung Express. 29 November 2019. Retrieved 12 April 2022.
  66. "Nagaland Cornerstone TV launched by Highland Dawn Media". The Morung Express. 13 April 2016. Retrieved 17 December 2024.
  67. "AIR launches new radio programme FM Tragopan". Eastern Mirror. 3 October 2017. Retrieved 12 April 2022.
  68. "Proposed Chiethu airport gets AAI to prepare DPR". Nagaland Post. 7 October 2020. Archived from the original on 19 December 2024. Retrieved 17 December 2024.
  69. "Dimapur-Kohima superhighway gets CCEA's nod after 10 years". Eastern Mirror. 25 July 2013. Retrieved 17 December 2024.
  70. Sechü, Neidilhoutuo (26 July 2013). "Slow Train Ride to Zubza". Eastern Mirror. Archived from the original on 4 December 2014. Retrieved 23 May 2018.
  71. "Construction work at Dimapur-Kohima new rail line going in full swing". Deccan Herald. Retrieved 28 March 2025.
  72. "Railways to reach Kohima soon, says NFR GM". Nagaland Post. 2 December 2021. Archived from the original on 1 January 2022. Retrieved 1 January 2022.
  73. "Dimapur–Kohima new BG railway line project to be completed by March 2026". The Economic Times. 23 November 2021. Retrieved 1 January 2022.
  74. Ambrocia, Medolenuo (25 September 2020). "Nagaland: A step towards making Kohima smart city a hub for cycling". East Mojo. Retrieved 30 July 2021.
  75. "Nagaland capital Kohima among India's Top 11 Cycling Pioneers". The Morung Express. 28 July 2021. Retrieved 30 July 2021.
  76. "www.kohima.nic.in". Education. Retrieved 17 December 2024.
  77. Parashar, Utpal (29 March 2018). "Nagaland: Kohima Village Council against rechristening of Indira Gandhi Stadium". Hindustan Times. Retrieved 17 December 2024.
  78. Chaudhuri, Arunava (27 February 2012). "Nagaland Premier League kicks-off in March". www.sportskeeda.com. Retrieved 17 December 2024.
  79. Tsükrü Kense, Atono (13 February 2020). "Naga Wrestling: The highest grossing sport in Nagaland". The Morung Express. Retrieved 30 July 2021.

Further reading[edit | edit source]

  • Swinson, Arthur (2015). Kohima. London: Head of Zeus. ISBN 9781784081775. From Google Books.
  • Edwards, Leslie (2009). Kohima: The Furthest Battle: The Story of the Japanese invasion of India in 1944 and the 'British-Indian Thermopylae'. Cheltenham: The History Press. ISBN 978-0-7509-5260-6.

External links[edit | edit source]