Air India crash: DNA confirms Lamnunthem Singson’s identity, Kangpokpi prepares final homecoming

In a deeply heartbreaking development, the DNA test of Air India crash victim Lamnunthem Singson has confirmed her identity, bringing both long-awaited closure and a fresh wave of sorrow to her grieving family and hometown of Kangpokpi.

Authorities officially notified her family this morning. 

Currently in Ahmedabad, they are awaiting final procedures to bring her remains home. Family sources indicate that arrangements are being made to transport her body to Dimapur as early as tomorrow morning, although the flight schedule is yet to be confirmed. Her body remains at a local hospital in Ahmedabad, pending completion of official documentation.

The tragic confirmation has cast a pall of mourning over Kangpokpi, where the young Air India cabin crew member, affectionately called Neonu by her mother, was celebrated as a source of inspiration. Her return, though heartbreaking, will be met with profound love, sorrow, and community solidarity.

A joint meeting of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) in Kangpokpi resolved that the Kuki Students' Organisation (KSO) Sadar Hills will take the lead in receiving her body at Dimapur Airport. From there, her remains will be escorted with dignity along National Highway 2 to Kangpokpi.

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The Kangpokpi Town Committee will welcome her with a solemn candlelight human chain leading to her home, joined by members of the Kuki Inpi Sadar Hills and the Kuki Women Union Sadar Hills, who will offer prayers and a quiet tribute at her residence. The town authorities will oversee an official condolence ceremony in her honour.

Condolence banners have already begun appearing across Kangpokpi District Headquarters, as CSOs, friends, and residents gather to mourn one of their brightest young daughters.

In a poignant remembrance, one of Lamnunthem’s close friends from London recalled their shared dream of visiting Old Trafford, the iconic stadium of Manchester United—a club she adored. “It’s a dream we will never fulfil now,” the friend shared, their voice heavy with grief.

As Kangpokpi prepares to receive its fallen star, the community’s collective strength and unity shine through — determined to honour Neonu's memory with the grace, love, and respect she so profoundly deserves.