The 27 Mokokchung Town Assembly Constituency Naga People’s Front (NPF) Youth Wing organised its one-day Youth Festival under the motto “Animus Fortius” and the theme “One Goal One Voice” at Mujabi Ground, Salangtem Ward, Mokokchung, on September 17.

The festival was sponsored by Minister for Rural Development and SIRD, Government of Nagaland, Metsübo Jamir, who graced the concluding session as Guest of Honour and addressed the gathering.

In his address, Metsübo Jamir appreciated the organising committee, particularly the youth members, and said the initiative demonstrated the role of young people in building unity within the constituency and the party. He expressed hope that such programmes would contribute towards greater unity and togetherness among the five wards under the 27 Mokokchung Town Assembly Constituency.

Referring to the ongoing political enrolment drive, which commenced on September 16, the Minister called upon party workers and youth members to carry out the enrolment process properly and work towards strengthening the organisation at the grassroots level ahead of the 2028 General Election.

He encouraged the youth to reach out to their neighbours and people in adjoining wards and colonies and to work collectively for the betterment of their respective communities. He stressed that unity and togetherness should form the foundation of the constituency, adding that political activities should not become merely a habit or be limited to election periods.

Metsübo said the purpose of bringing people together should not be limited to electing an MLA or Minister, but should ultimately be directed towards serving the people. He urged the youth not to forget their constituency and reminded them that public figures and political leaders have a responsibility to work for the people and the betterment of the constituency.

He further encouraged the youth to participate actively in social gatherings and community activities, saying such interactions help young people understand both the positive and negative aspects of society and equip them with knowledge and experience.

The Minister also spoke about the significance of youth activities and sports in bringing people together. He said programmes such as the youth festival provide opportunities for interaction beyond competition and can contribute to developing individuals with greater wisdom and a sense of responsibility towards society.

The Futsal Tournament held as part of the festival featured two categories- the Party Workers Category and the Professional Category.

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In the Party Workers Category, Kichutip NPF Unit emerged as champions and received a cash prize of Rs. 20,000, while Mongsenbai NPF Unit secured the runners-up position with Rs. 10,000. Meyikaba of Kumlong NPF Unit was adjudged Best Goalkeeper and received Rs. 2,000, while Moamongba of Mongsenbai NPF Unit was named Player of the Tournament and received Rs. 2,000.

In the Professional Category, Kumlong NPF Unit lifted the Champion Trophy along with a cash prize of Rs. 20,000, while Mongsenbai NPF Unit finished as runners-up with Rs. 10,000. Imliakum of Aongza NPF Unit was adjudged Best Goalkeeper, while Yaho of Kumlong NPF Unit was declared Player of the Tournament. The individual awardees in this category were also presented Rs. 2,000 each.

All the prizes were distributed by the Guest of Honour, Metsübo Jamir, Minister for RD & SIRD.

The 27 Mokokchung Town AC comprises five wards of Mokokchung Town, with all five NPF party units- Aongza, Kumlong, Kichutip, Mongsenbai and Salangtem, participating in the festival.

According to the organisers, the event marked the seventh consecutive year of the youth wing’s annual programme, sponsored by its elected MLA. In previous years, a football tournament was organised at the Imkongmeren Sports Complex. This year’s edition was expanded into a Youth Festival comprising the Futsal Championship along with an entertainment programme.

The entertainment session featured eight local performers, including bands and solo artistes, representing the five party units as well as other local participants.

The festival was conducted in two sessions. Session-I commenced with Pursenla Ozüküm, 27 AC Youth Wing, as chairperson. Invocation was pronounced by Limaonen, followed by the introductory and welcome address by Tinukaba Longchar, Vice President, 27 AC Youth Wing. A short speech was delivered by C Tia Longkumer, President, 27 AC, after which the Youth Festival Futsal Tournament was kicked off.

Session-II was hosted by Dr. Obendangla, with invocation pronounced by Rev. Temsüwati Kichu, Associate Pastor, MTBA.

The concluding programme included the prize distribution, followed by entertainment and a concert.

The vote of thanks was delivered by Imliyanger Jamir, President, 27 Mokokchung Town AC NPF Youth Wing.