Members of the Chakesang Students Union performing a ‘Chicken Dance’ at the inaugural session of the NS 25th General Conference held at the Agri Expo, Dimapur.
Inaugural session of NSF’s 25th General Assembly held
DIMAPUR, APRIL 25 (MExN): A multitude of students from all over the state and the North East along with various other dignitaries and delegates thronged the Agri Expo in Diphupar Village, Dimapur to attend the inaugural session of the Naga Student Federation’s (NSF) 25th General Conference on April 25. A common theme touched upon by almost all the speakers was the need to unite and embrace a common vision.
The programme started with a welcome address by G Vashum, Convener, Organising Committee of the 25th General Conference. He stressed on the 66 year history of the NSF and asserted that its legacy will carry on. He stated the NSF has always strived to work for the Naga cause and for a “dignified and unified Naga people.” He also expounded on the Naga people’s “desire to decide our own destiny.” Vashum stated that the NSF has always endeavored to unify all Nagas irrespective of any boundaries. He urged the Naga people to become “agents of transf ormation” and also to respect the “legacy inherited from our ancestors.”
The President of the NSF, Kelhouneizo Yhome, said that this conference is an attempt to bring the Naga people together on a common platform. Keeping in tune with the theme of the General Conference, the President stressed on the need to unite and “embrace a common vision.” He asserted that Naga people at present are being “sandwiched” between Naga culture and western culture. Commenting on this, he stated that Nagas are losing touch with their identity.
He added, “We Nagas are suffering from the basic misconception when it comes to understanding on agreeing or working with one another.” On this point he emphasized on the need to have mutual respect and understanding with one another. He stated that this conference would go a long way in infusing a sense of unity among all Nagas.
He also stressed on the need for a concerted effort to eradicate “corruption, tribalism, extortions, kidnappings, killing etc” from Naga society. “We Nagas are just a small group,” he stated, however adding that through determination, the Naga people could bring change.
MLA from Manipur, L Dikho urged the youth to become leaders and stressed on the need to do away with corruption. He asserted that the practice of backdoor appointments would have to be eradicated. Linho encouraged the youth to explore new employment opportunities and to not just rely on government jobs. He further called upon the youth to be active participants in the process of development.
Samuel B Yyrwa, Chairman of the North East Students Organization stated that the NSF acts as a unifying force and helps in the generation of public opinion. He said that unlike student organizations in mainland India, organizations in the North East are based on identity and not on political affiliations.
CM Chang, the Chief Guest for the inaugural session in his speech lauded the NSF for its continuous efforts to work for the interests of Naga Sstudents. He added that the NSF as a common platform gives it the opportunity to inspire and steer the Nagas in the right direction. “For this, it is important that you also liaise with government agencies, civil societies and local institutions,” he added.
He further acknowledged the “complexity” of the task at hand for the NSF as it represents all the tribes of Nagaland. He also added that the DAN government would provide opportunities for Naga youths to utilize their potential and talent.
Earlier in the programme, the ‘Chamber Choir’ and Lanlan Huileng, presented mesmerizing songs which roused thunderous applause from the crowd. A‘Chicken Dance’ by the Chakesang Student;s Union was also presented, much to the smile of the gathering. The programme ended with another musical arrangement by the Patkai Guitar Ensemble.
