The fifth Autumn Huddle of Ao Students’ Union Dimapur gets underway at Zone Niathu by the Park in Chümoukedima.
DIMAPUR — The fifth edition of the “Autumn Huddle”, organised by the Ao Students’ Union Dimapur (ASUD), commenced at Zone Niathu by the Park in Chümoukedima on Monday.
The two-day event features eight teams competing in various sporting disciplines, including futsal, volleyball, basketball, penalty shootout, tug of war, and badminton, along with other activities for both men and women.
Addressing the opening ceremony as the special guest, Dimapur Municipal Council Ward-9 Councillor and DDFA General Secretary Lanutoshi Yaden said the gathering was not merely about sports, culture, and enjoying one another's company, but because they share something far greater than a common identity.
He stated that they must stop allowing the mistakes of the past to become the limitations of their future and stop allowing old differences to weaken new opportunities. Instead of asking who was right or who was wrong yesterday, they must begin asking what they can do together today to make tomorrow better, he added.
He further said that a community that remains trapped in its past will struggle to build its future, but a community that learns from its past, stands united in its present, and works towards a common goal will always have the strength to rise.
Yaden asserted that unity must go beyond the playing field and not end when the final whistle is blown, encouraging the gathering to let unity become a way of life. He also advised that the Ao youth should be known not only for sporting talent but also for integrity, compassion, leadership, responsibility, and the willingness to stand up for what is right.
He urged that Ao unity must be visible in their social life as well, encouraging the Ao Students’ Union Dimapur to continue creating platforms where young people can meet, exchange ideas, build friendships, and develop a deeper sense of responsibility towards society.
“Let our gatherings produce more than memories. Let them produce ideas, initiatives, friendships, and meaningful action,” he stated.
Furthermore, he said that competition should make them stronger, not divide them. Adding that winning is a wonderful feeling but not everything, he expressed that a trophy may occupy a place on a shelf, but the character developed through discipline, teamwork, and respect will remain throughout life.
He called on the Ao Students’ Union Dimapur to let the event be remembered not merely as another successful gathering but as a turning point in the way they think about their responsibility as young people.
Earlier, the welcome address was delivered by ASUD President Imnatemsu Pongen.