Minister Zhimomi urges Angamis to uphold legacy

N Jacob Zhimomi addressing the 31st biennial general conference of the Angami Students’ Union (ASU) in Khonoma village on Saturday. (EM Images)

• KHONOMA — Minister of PHED and Cooperation, N Jacob Zhimomi, on Saturday urged the Angami community to uphold legacy and lead in socio-economic development of the state.
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• He said this while addressing the 31st biennial general conference of the Angami Students’ Union (ASU) held in Khonoma village under Kohima district. Recalling the historical significance, Zhimomi said Khonoma village is a historical legacy left behind by Angami leaders, who had fiercely resisted external aggression during pre-independence times. He paid tribute to those leaders who upheld the identity of the Nagas and contributed significantly to the growth and development of the state.
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• Highlighting the early encounter of the Angamis with Christianity, he said that with privileges and opportunities come responsibilities.
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• “You all have done well, but much more needs to be done. We must work collectively so that peace, prosperity and development of our state can be achieved,” he stated.

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• Zhimomi stressed that one cannot grow in isolation nor remain confined within four walls, adding that Nagas as a whole must grow together. He pointed out that the Angamis are one of the most fortunate tribes to lead the Naga people and encouraged them to take on that responsibility to guide the community forward in the right direction.
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• The minister noted that although Naga society is fragmented, there is hope, as many are striving toward unity and progress. He acknowledged the role of churches and peacemakers in working towards fulfilling the dreams of the forefathers.
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• He underlined that the greatest strength of India today is its human resource, comprising 70% of the population. Similarly, he noted that Nagaland is blessed with a large, educated and well-informed youth population. While some have entered government service and others are excelling in private sectors, farming, and business, many remain unemployed. He said unemployment remains one of the biggest challenges in both the country and the state.
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• Addressing students, he stated, “We have been given good education by our parents with the aim and ambition of securing government jobs. Many were fortunate to get into government service and some into the UPSC and state PSC. But many remain unemployed—this is the biggest challenge we face today.”
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• He assured that the government is working hard to explore all possibilities to ensure that youth are not only employed but gainfully employed, adding that this is the state government’s top priority.
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• Zhimomi emphasised that it is unrealistic to expect the central or state governments to absorb the entire human resource into government service. Hence, he said, the Government of India under Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, has initiated the start-up programme.
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• He observed that Nagas are fortunate to have land, which can be developed as a capital resource for local start-ups by upholding the virtues of unity, simplicity, and hard work exemplified by their forefathers.
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• Reflecting on Nagaland's statehood in 1963, he said the state is a mature one, yet remains fragmented. He called on the present generation to acknowledge the sacrifices of their forefathers and to realise that development must be a collective responsibility—not solely the government’s task.
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• He urged the people to define the state through hard work and cooperation and to foster unity among tribes. He also called on educated and qualified students to guide their parents, society and the church.
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• “It is time we also develop our own sports, music and arts, as these can become part of our identity,” Zhimomi said. He noted that few professions offer instant recognition and security like those in sports and music adding that there is nothing wrong in pursuing such careers.
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• While adopting the best practices of other cultures, he cautioned not to forget traditional values and human character—attributes inherited from Naga forefathers that are inborn and irreplaceable.
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• He stressed on participatory and collective development across villages, towns and cities.
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• Zhimomi praised the Angamis for their integrity, unity and respect for elders, stating that this strength has positively impacted them in business, politics and church leadership. He reminded the community that with God's blessings come responsibility and called upon them to introspect, assist each other and move together toward peace and prosperity.
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• The president of Angami Public Organisation (APO), Theja-o Vihienuo, has termed the Angamis as a fortunate community and urged ASU to reflect on the blessings of God—particularly in receiving the Gospel and education early—and reminded them that such gifts come with responsibility.
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• He challenged ASU members to think beyond the Angami community and work for the larger good.
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• The president of Naga Students’ Federation (NSF), Medovi Rhi, commended the ASU and the Angami community for their enduring contributions to the Naga people. He recalled the defining moment of the 1951 plebiscite, where 99.9% voted for Naga sovereignty—a move led by AZ Phizo, a son of the Angami soil. Rhi said Angami patriotism is not symbolic but deeply rooted and continues to inspire the Naga people in their pursuit of identity, heritage and peace.
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• He encouraged the youth to move beyond passive mindsets, stating that “degrees alone are not enough without action.” He urged them to engage in social work, entrepreneurship or farming, emphasising the dignity of labour.
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• Rhi stated that the Angami community has always been at the forefront of preserving Naga identity politically, socially and culturally. He expressed confidence that with the continued support of ASU, NSF would remain a driving force for a just and prosperous Naga society.
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• Earlier, the presidential address was delivered by Khriesamhalie David Mere, while the conference remarks were made by Neinguvotuo Krose, convenor of central organising committee. Megono Tase enthralled the gathering with a song.
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• The programme was led by Diezevisie Nakhro, ASU vice president, and a prayer was offered by Rev. Tsolie Chase, senior pastor of Baptist Church Khonoma.
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• Prior to the inaugural session, the ASU Watch Tower was inaugurated by Jacob Zhimomi.