Hokato V

Hokato V. is a dedicated political leader and social advocate from Nagaland, currently serving as the General Secretary of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for the Zunheboto District. With a career rooted in grassroots student activism and community mobilization, he has become a prominent voice for the youth and the Eastern Sumi region.

Early Life and Education

Born on July 3, 1993, to Viwoto and Visheni, Hokato hails from Aquba Old village under the Aghunato Sub-Division in Zunheboto. A lifelong resident of the district, his educational journey was shaped by local institutions:

• HSLC & HSSLC: Zunheboto Government Higher Secondary School (Class of 2008 and 2011).

• Higher Education: He earned his Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) from Zunheboto Government College in 2015, a period that solidified his interest in public service and governance.

Student Leadership & Advocacy

Before entering mainstream politics, Hokato established himself as a formidable student leader. His decade-long involvement in student unions reflects a commitment to educational reform and youth empowerment:

• Aquba Old Students’ Union: Served as President (2011–2013) after holding the role of Games and Sports Secretary (2011–2012).

• Zunheboto Government College: Served as Vice President of the student body during his final year (2014–2015).

• Eastern Sumi Students’ Union (ESSU): Hokato ascended to regional leadership, serving as Speaker (2016–2019) before being elected President (2019–2021). During his presidency, he was instrumental in advocating for the rights and infrastructure needs of students across the Eastern Sumi jurisdiction.

Political Career

Transitioning from student activism to active politics, Hokato joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), quickly rising through the ranks of the party’s district youth wing due to his organizational skills and local influence.

• Youth Leadership: In 2021, he served as the District Youth General Secretary before being elevated to District Youth Vice President (2021–2023).

• District Administration: In 2025, Hokato was appointed as the General Secretary of the BJP Zunheboto District, where he currently oversees party operations, grassroots outreach, and policy implementation within the district.

Personal Life

A devout Christian, Hokato is deeply integrated into the social and spiritual fabric of his community. He resides in Zunheboto Town with his family. He married Lilo K. Zhimo on March 11, 2022, and they have one son, H. Nikupü Yepthomi.

Hokato continues to be a bridge between the traditional values of the Sumi people and the modern political aspirations of Nagaland’s younger generation.