Students told to uphold traditional values

MOKOKCHUNG — People’s College in Mokokchung celebrated its cultural day on Saturday at the college auditorium with Tsukti Longkumer, a member of the board of governors and president of the Mokokchung Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MCCI), as the special guest.

In his address, Longkumer expressed concern over the declining cultural values among the current generation. He pointed out that the traditional respect for elders is gradually fading and the sanctity of marriage, as observed by the forefathers, is being compromised by marrying from the same clan and same sex.

Longkumer also expressed concern over many young people prioritising learning and speaking foreign languages rather than their native tongue, believing it to be more dignified. In this regard, he urged the students to honour and appreciate their native language, emphasising that language is a key aspect of one’s identity.

The special guest further criticised the present generation’s lack of hard work, a fundamental principle of Naga culture. He noted that many now seek easy money rather than engaging in honest labour. Longkumer categorised hard work into three types: working hard without dignity (through fraudulent means), wanting a job but not wanting to work, and working hard with dignity for a better future. He challenged the students to reflect on which category they fall into.

He also spoke about honesty in society, distinguishing between those who are honest out of fear of being caught and those who uphold honesty regardless of external judgment. He encouraged the students to introspect on their own levels of honesty.

The cultural day featured a variety of activities including poetry recitations, showcase of traditional attires from different tribes, folk songs, storytelling and a tug-of-war between the faculty and students.