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.
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.
Highlighting the early encounter of the Angamis with
Christianity, he said that with privileges and opportunities come
responsibilities.
“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.
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.
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.
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.
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.”
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
“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.
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.
He stressed on participatory and collective development
across villages, towns and cities.
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.
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.
He challenged ASU members to think beyond the Angami
community and work for the larger good.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Prior to the inaugural session, the ASU Watch Tower was
inaugurated by Jacob Zhimomi.
