SAFER INTERNET DAY 2026 OBSERVED ACROSS NAGALAND, STRESS ON RESPONSIBLE USE OF AI

KOHIMA/DIMAPUR/ZUNHEBOTO, Feb 10: Safer Internet Day 2026 was observed across Nagaland on Tuesday with district-level programmes held at Kohima, Dimapur and Zunheboto, focusing on the theme “Smart Tech, Safe Choices – Exploring the Safe and Responsible Use of AI.” The observances aimed to promote safe, ethical and responsible use of digital technologies and artificial intelligence.

At Zunheboto, the programme was held at the DC’s Conference Hall. Additional Deputy Commissioner Tiameren Chang, addressing the gathering, stressed that while society has entered the era of artificial intelligence, people must use AI wisely and not be misled or controlled by it. He cautioned against blind dependence on AI and reminded participants that human judgment and responsibility must always remain paramount. He also noted that while the internet has opened new avenues for knowledge and connectivity, it has also brought risks and challenges, urging especially the younger generation to use digital platforms responsibly. A presentation was delivered by DIO, NIC Zunheboto, Himanshu Ranjan, and the programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Octoli Chischi, DRM, NIC Zunheboto.

In Dimapur, the Office of the Deputy Commissioner organised a district-level awareness programme and workshop at the DC’s Conference Hall. ADIO (NIC) Kamal Chetri, in his introductory remarks, said that AI has become an integral part of daily life, influencing shopping, learning platforms, advertisements and digital content. He cautioned about the growing misuse of AI, including fake videos and voice calls, and urged ethical use and protection of personal data.
EAC (Dev) Dimapur Imlijungla Lemtur, in her keynote address, highlighted that while AI offers immense benefits, the risks of misuse are equally serious. She stressed that technology must not replace human judgment and critical thinking.

PowerPoint presentations by ADIO (NIC) Chumoukedima Vicky Kumar Sharma and DIA (NIC) Dimapur T. Thongtsali Sangtam highlighted phishing threats through SMS, email and WhatsApp, and showcased the Government of India’s Sanchar Saathi portal. Participants were informed about cybercrime reporting through the national helpline 1930, the cybercrime.gov.in portal, or the nearest police station. The programme concluded with a pledge promoting digital vigilance.

At Kohima, the National Informatics Centre (NIC) organised a district-level awareness campaign at the DC’s Conference Hall. EAC Kohima Imtiyenla K highlighted that while the internet is a powerful tool, it also poses risks such as cyberbullying, misinformation, deepfakes and online fraud. District Informatics Officer Temsunaro noted the rising number of cyber fraud cases and stressed the need for awareness.
A detailed presentation by Sozenlo Tep, Network Field Engineer, NIC, explained major cyber threats, cyber hygiene practices, and the national awareness campaign being observed under MeitY’s Information Security Education and Awareness (ISEA) Project. Participants were also briefed on the safe use of AI and the importance of fact-checking and responsible sharing of information.

Across all districts, the observance reinforced the message that while technology and AI offer powerful opportunities, their safe, ethical and responsible use is essential to protect individuals and society from digital risks.