The 54th edition of the Jangpetkong Kaketshir Telungjem Mungdang (JKTM) commenced at Khar Village, Mokokchung, under the theme “Tayimjem Libaliyim” (Encompassing Ethical Values). The conference, which began today, will conclude on January 17.

The inaugural ceremony was graced by Temjenmenba, Advisor for Transport and Technical Education, as the Inaugural Guest while Prof. Dr. Asangla Lemtur, Head of the Theology and Ethics Department at Caleb Institute, Gurgaon, served as the Main Speaker.

In his address, the Inaugural Guest Temjenmenba remarked that the Jangpetkong range is like a patient in an ICU and lamented: “We lack road connectivity, communication, healthcare, and other essential services. Although we are known as the ‘Pioneer Range,’ this is now just history. Many great leaders have emerged from our area, but we must ask ourselves what went wrong to bring us to this state. We need to reflect seriously on this.”

He further stated, “Our future is uncertain, and our society is in limbo.”

Reflecting on the socio-economic situation, Temjenmenba highlighted the contributions of martyrs and pioneers in the fight for freedom and proposed an annual event to commemorate them and building a Pioneers Park with monuments will ensure that their legacy endures for generations.

The MLA and Advisor then called for a return to foundational values, especially local self-governance. “We have many NGOs which are just pressure groups, including student unions, but village councils hold legal authority. I propose that village councils operate as independent republics. The laws governing village councils should be amended to adapt to the evolving needs of our time.”

He stressed, “If we strengthen our foundations—economically, politically, and administratively—we can develop our Naga state. True development begins at the village level. Reform is essential.”

Temjenmenba warned against negative tendencies such as hatred, jealousy, and narrow range-wise interests and called for unity across the Ao areas. He also urged the community to learn from others’ best practices and embrace new ideas. “Let’s adopt a new attitude and fresh thinking, building from the ground up. Hard work alone is not enough; we need wisdom and adaptability.”

Addressing the challenges of employment, the Advisor said, “Government jobs are saturated. We must explore alternative livelihoods and establish new ventures. Programs may reach our doorsteps, but they fail because we are not serious about implementing them. Each individual must contribute ideas and work toward making them a success in this competitive world.”

Regarding road conditions, he informed the gathering that he had approached the Central Government. “Due to technical issues, the project was delayed, but it has now been updated and hopeful that will be taken up soon. I urge all citizens to unite and voice their concerns. Together, we can bring positive change to our region.”

Temjenmenba concluded by encouraging everyone to reflect on their actions: “Let us ask ourselves—will God be pleased with what we do? True leadership, genuine love, and unity for one another are the keys to a better future.”

Speaking in line with the conference theme, “Tayimjem Libaliyim” (Encompassing Ethical Values), Prof. Dr. Asangla Lemtur emphasized its relevance to tribal ethics, which she described as the “Tribal Life View”—a way of life reflected in our behavior and conduct.

Dr. Lemtur highlighted the significance of embracing high ethical values. She explained:

“Values” is a positive and powerful word with a deeper meaning than its surface implies.

Ethics is reflective; it’s not just a virtue or a value but a mirror of our actions.

Personal ethical values are crucial. She noted that without a strong ethical value system, one cannot achieve personal or communal growth. Whereas, Ethics, she stated, is not merely intellectual; it is practical and transformative.

Further, she expounded that to build a better society, community ethical values must be practical and deeply ingrained. Quoting Stanley Hauerwas from The Peaceable Kingdom, she said: “Ethical values are about the formation of Christian character and virtues, focusing on the community’s role in shaping individuals to love faithfully in response to God’s call.” She added, “It’s a call from God.”

Dr. Lemtur stressed that we cannot separate the religious from the secular.

She noted that while many companies worldwide have ethical departments, such values are often neglected in our society. “It’s all based on scripture,” she reiterated.

She expressed concern about the complacency among today’s youth, urging them to stay aware of global and local issues. In the modern world, digital addiction has become a major concern, following earlier societal challenges like drug and alcohol addiction. Dr. Lemtur warned against the dangers of pornography and urged the student community to be aware of these issues.

“We must reflect on our conduct and behavior,” she said, adding, “Why do we behave this way? It’s a need for ethical introspection.”

Dr. Lemtur described Ao Naga tribal ethics as a lifestyle—a reflection of one’s attitudes and way of living. “We are a selfish generation”, she remarked and warned against excessive attention to mobile phones, social status, and individualistic tendencies.

Lanutoshi Aier, President of Ao Students’ Conference (AKM), in his address, recalled that the Jangpetkong range of the Ao region is renowned as a “pioneer range” in the fields of Christianity and education, being the first to embrace them. He however expressed concern over the deteriorating road conditions in this pioneering range, and urged the students to question their responsibility in addressing this issue. He also urged the villagers and intellectuals to question their basic rights and said, “If you don’t fight for your rights, who will? Why are we afraid to speak the truth?”

“It’s a sad world when individuals who voice the truth are threatened,” he added.

Speaking on the conference theme, “Encompassing Ethical Values,” Aier emphasized the need for integrity, principles, honesty, and courage, which he said are on the verge of extinction.

He encouraged JKTM to critically evaluate the conditions of the schools in the area, highlighting the poor state of these institutions. “Who are studying in those schools? It is our range people and our Ao people. If they don’t receive proper education, who will they become? It’s our collective responsibility to address this.”

The AKM President concluded by encouraging the students to become independent, think innovatively, and contribute to their families and society, hoping that the Ao community’s past glories could be revived through efforts from this range.

Akümjungshi, the Information Secretary of JKTM, delivered the introductory speech, while the welcome address was given by the Village Council Chairman of Khar.

The program proceedings were managed by the JKTM Office. The conference was officially opened by Khar Kaketshir Telungjem, with L. Kümzük Walling, Pastor of Khar Baptist Arogo, pronouncing the invocation. The JKTM Anthem was sung, followed by a presentation by Tzüben Long. The Jubilee Choir also performed the Jubilee Song.

A total of 425 delegates attended the inaugural program of the 54th Edition of JKTM.