MLA Achumbemo Kikon calls upon Pochury youth to reconnect with their roots and uphold community values.
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DIMAPUR — Secretary General of the Naga People's Front (NPF) and MLA Achumbemo Kikon on Thursday called upon the Pochury youth to reconnect with their roots and uphold community values, saying the crisis facing Naga youth today is one of conviction, not capacity.
Addressing the 60th general conference of the Pochury Students' Union (PSU) at Wuzu village, Meluri district, the MLA stressed that modernisation should not come at the cost of cultural heritage and traditional values.
Kikon urged the youth to preserve their cultural identity, including traditional attire and customs, while embracing values of respect, discipline, and responsibility.
Recalling the Naga struggle for independence, he cited the episode in which Naga fighters shot down a Dakota aircraft in this area during the conflict but treated the captured pilots with dignity in line with international norms.
Such conduct, he said, showed that the Naga political movement had evolved its own ethical codes and refrained from harming innocent civilians even in times of armed confrontation.
While highlighting the importance of education, the NPF leader stressed the need for seriousness in academics and warned against overdependence on gadgets.
He emphasised that education must develop knowledge, skills, and professionalism, rather than just focusing on certificates.
Also read: Achumbemo Kikon stresses unity at Naga People's Front Meluri Division office inauguration
On electoral behaviour, he criticised the prevailing approach to elections and appealed to youth to reject short-term gains and monetary inducements.
Instead, he urged them to educate society on responsible voting for long-term development and accountable leadership.
Kikon also stressed the need for reconciliation among villages and communities, overcoming linguistic and minor differences, and caring for Naga communities beyond the international boundary.
His speech dwelled on youth's role in shaping the Naga community's future, questioning if the next sixty years would retain the dignity and discipline that saw the community through conflict and uncertainty.
Pochury Hoho president Chonpa Jurry, Naga Students’ Federation president Mteisuding Heraang, and Pochury Women Association president Tvüsesü Peri, also addressed inaugural session.
The programme was chaired by K Asetsü Thüvüri, tribunal PSU. Solomon, pastor of Phor Village CRC, led the invocation prayer. Thutu Thuur, COC convenor, delivered the welcome address, and Rongley Leyri, PSU president, gave the presidential address.
The programme featured special numbers by Abigail & Afir Thupitor and New Phor women folk. Yipfüchu Jorror, youth chairman PVCRC, gave the concluding benediction.