Panelist of the discussion on the theme, "Youth as the Bridge to Our Political Future" during the second day of the 31st Naga Students’ Federation General Conference at Tseminyu on August 28. (Morung Photo)
Morung Express News
Tseminyu | August 28
The second day of the 31st Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) General Conference featured a significant panel discussion on the theme, "Youth as the Bridge to Our Political Future," bringing together leaders, young voices, and public figures, focusing on youth responsibility in shaping the future of the Naga community.
The panel discussion featured panelists Nepuni Piku, Ningreichon Tungshang, Dr Lanusashi Longkumer, and MLA Achumbemo Kikon.
Opening the discussion, moderator R. Lungleng observed that young people are often left out of policy and decision-making processes, even though they are actively involved in agitation and protest.
Echoing the sentiment, Dr Longkumer underscored that youth are an integral part of society and called for creating meaningful connections between youth and political institutions.
He suggested that the NSF should collaborate with the State Council of Educational Research and Training (SCERT) to integrate Naga history, rights, and culture into the school curriculum so that younger generations can understand and value their indigenous identity.
Meanwhile, Nagaland legislator Kikon stated that the Naga political movement is not about creating ‘divisions or factions’ but about collective purpose and unity.
Joining the deliberation, Tungshang highlighted the lack of women's participation in the Naga political negotiations.
“It should not be male-centric,” she held. “We need internal connection, not just external blame on the Indian and Nagaland governments.”
She also noted that self-determination should be an everyday practice.
Tungshang also stressed the critical role of the church as an interlocutor in guiding and mentoring the youth.
The panel discussion brought forth diverse perspectives, all centered on the urgent need to empower young people to lead with integrity, responsibility, and vision in the political future of the Naga people.
‘Prioritising values over personal ego
Meanwhile, Kumo Sha, Member of the Manipur Legislative Assembly and the special guest in the session, underlined the importance of unity and self-reflection among the Nagas.
“We Nagas have a habit of calling something our own, and that is exactly the issue,” he stated. “We are living in a challenging era marked by rapid technological advancement. Sometimes, I worry that we are becoming keyboard warriors instead of real-life heroes.”
He stressed on prioritising of values over individual egos, noting that it is “not about who is right, but what is right.”
“Our society must always uphold what is right and set an example for the younger generation so they can appreciate it, rather than suffer because of its absence,” Sha added.
Reflecting on the legacy of the Naga struggle, he observed: “Our forefathers fought for a cause. They kept their rights rather than selling them. Today, we face the consequences of forgetting that legacy. Are we dividing ourselves with too many organizations and voices?”
To this end, the MLA called for honesty and accountability, stating, “It is time to call a spade a spade and speak the truth. One perspective can be more right than another, and we must have the courage to say so. Otherwise, our future generations may fear returning to Nagaland.”
He concluded by emphasising the need for sincerely owned responsibility in leadership and public life.
In her greetings, Vilanuo Angela Yhone, President of the Naga Mothers’ Association, shared her aspirations for greater youth participation and inclusive political engagement in Naga society.
The session was chaired by Esther Rhakho and opened with an invocation prayer led by Fr Anthony Rozü Dukru, Parish Priest of Mary Help of Christians Cathedral. A special musical presentation was given by the BHSS Choir from Tseminyu.
