MLA Achumbemo Kikon speaking during the event on January 22.
DIMAPUR, JANUARY 22 (MExN): MLA and NPF Secretary General Achumbemo Kikon has called upon Pochury youth to reconnect with their roots and uphold community values, stating that “the crisis facing Naga youth today is one of conviction, not capacity.”
Addressing the 60th General Conference of the Pochury Students' Union at Wuzu Village on January 22, Kikon stressed that modernization should not come at the cost of cultural heritage and traditional values. He 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, Kikon referred to an episode in which Naga fighters shot down a Dakota aircraft in the area during the conflict but treated the captured pilots with dignity in line with international norms. He said such conduct showed that the Naga political movement had evolved its own ethical codes and had refrained from harming innocent civilians even in times of armed confrontation.
Kikon stressed the need for seriousness in academics and cautioned against overdependence on gadgets. He emphasized that “education must develop knowledge, skills, and professionalism, rather than just focusing on certificates.”
On electoral behaviour, Kikon criticized the prevailing approach to elections and appealed to youth to reject short-term gains and monetary inducements. He urged them to educate society on responsible voting for long-term development and accountable leadership.
He also stressed the need for reconciliation among villages and communities, overcoming linguistic and minor differences, and caring for Naga communities beyond the international boundary. Kikon’s address formed part of a broader discussion on the role of youth in shaping the future of the Naga community, during which he posed the question whether “the next sixty years would be guided by the same dignity and discipline that carried the previous sixty through conflict and uncertainty.”
During the inaugural session, Pochury Hoho President Chonpa Jurry, Naga Students’ Federation President Mteisuding Heraang and Pochury Women Association President Tvüsesü Peri also addressed the gathering. The programme was chaired by K Asetsü Thüvüri, Tribunal PSU, with invocation prayer by Solomon, Pastor, Phor Village CRC. The welcome address was delivered by Thutu Thuur, Convenor COC, while the presidential address was given by Rongley Leyri, President PSU.
The programme featured a special number by Abigail and Afir Thupitor and New Phor Women Folk and concluded with a benediction by Yipfüchu Jorror, Youth Chairman, PVCRC.
