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Chiechama Village Youth Organization presenting a folk item (Harvest).[/caption]
KIGWEMA, NOVEMBER 4 : Lok Sabha MP Neiphiu Rio on Friday underscored the importance of grooming those who hold the future of the society in their hands- the youth- with respect and appropriate knowledge.
Exhorting a massive gathering at the inaugural function of the 25th anniversary celebrations of the Angami Youth Organization (AYO) here in Kholera Ground, Kigwema, Rio said the pride and hope of any family, clan, village or a nation is its youth. He asserted that a good leadership is leading the people in the right direction when it practically and spiritually nurtures a strong and firm youth as they constitute a representative of the future. “The way we respect our elders in our society, we should also respect our youth and guide them to become good leaders,” Rio stated.
To the youth, he said it is important that they know their history in order to build their future. “Do not forget or discard the teachings and the struggles of your forefathers,” he added.
Making a reference to the present occasion, Rio stated that the gathering must acknowledge the pioneers of the organization (AYO) and those who contributed towards its growth through the years to see this day of celebration of 25 years of existence. He maintained that the Angamis are a blessed community among the Nagas and that, the theme of the occasion, “Kelhou Kevira” (Where Life is Good) holds true. This blessing is the legacy of our past elders and leaders, he stated.
Reverting to the Naga history and the role of the Angamis in it, he recalled the formation of the Naga Club in Kohima in 1918. Out of the 20 persons who first spoke for the Naga people in the form of a memorandum to the Simon Commission in 1918, he reminded that 14 were from the Angami community. He cited some more instances of contributing roles the community had played in the Naga movement, pointing out that the youth must know their history in order to build their future.
Towards this end, he asserted that the Angamis have been a blessed and privileged people. However, on a sobering note, he said it was all because the people had believed in the Angamis. He urged the present generation of youth to carry forward this legacy so that people may continue to trust and respect the leadership of the community. “But remember, because of the many privileges we have, our responsibilities are greater,” he added.
Rio expressed positivity in AYO’s vision for posterity which involves 4E’s- Ethos, Economy, Environment and Education. He felt that in the field of education, the people of the community have achieved much but can still do better. He exhorted that instead of just acquiring a degree, the youth should opt to learn different skills-based disciplines, trades and also explore to venture to provide what the market requires. Begin by focussing to accomplish small tasks, then aim for bigger ones, he advised.
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“It is the absence of work culture that we Nagas are not progressing,” he lamented and pointed out the need of a change in mindset. In the modern times, he stated, nations are at war not with weapons but with wealth (economy). Towards this, he said it is very pertinent that the Nagas improved their economy, and to do this, they must become self sufficient. He stated that there are unlimited opportunities in terms of business, trade and industries but most Nagas have a one-track-mind towards getting government jobs. Government jobs, when achieved through competitive exams, are another thing, he pointed, but looking for any small post through unfair means of appointment is something that must be discouraged, he added. He maintained that the people must renew, strengthen and apply Christian principles in their lives.
Earlier in the morning, Rio unveiled a monolith which was erected at Khwemihü, above Kisama, to commemorate the AYO 25 years celebration.
Meanwhile, during the inaugural programme, convener of the organizing committee Gonei-u Sirie delivered a brief history of the organization while SAPO president Dr Neiketou Kiso delivered the greetings and AYO president Medo Yhokha presented the jubilee message. A cultural event was held in the afternoon session. The anniversary celebrations will conclude on Saturday with the Angami Public Organization president Dr Vilhusa Seleyi gracing the valedictory function as the guest of honour.