Former Governor of Goa, Maharashtra, Gujarat and Odisha, and former Chief Minister of Nagaland, Dr SC Jamir called upon retired government servants to use their experience and wisdom to promote clean governance, ethical leadership and electoral reforms in Nagaland.

He was addressing the 4th General Meeting of the Kohima Ao Pensioner Telungjem (Kohima Ao Pensioner Union) held at the KABA Jubilee Memorial Centre on July 24.

Reflecting on the history of the Ao community, Dr Jamir said the Nagas had been protected for decades despite being surrounded by neighbouring regions that followed different faiths. He noted that with the arrival of the American Baptist Mission, the Aos became the first among the Nagas to embrace Christianity and subsequently played a pioneering role in spreading the Gospel across Nagaland. He also highlighted the introduction of modern education in Ao-inhabited areas during that period.

Speaking on the political history of the state, Dr Jamir recalled that following the Second World War, the Naga political movement, which was marked by divisions, witnessed greater unity under the leadership of Dr Imkongliba Ao through the formation of the Naga People’s Convention.

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Describing the Aos as pioneers in education, politics and the spread of Christianity in Nagaland, he urged the community to continue contributing to the state’s progress.

Touching on contemporary issues, Dr Jamir expressed concern over the Naga political situation, corruption and governance challenges. He said Nagaland continues to grapple with tribalism, factionalism and insurgency, and called on pensioners to help bring positive change in administration, development and the electoral process.

“You can impart your knowledge and wisdom through churches and other social and political platforms,” he told the gathering, urging retirees to remain actively engaged in public life.

Delivering the exhortation, ET Sunep, IAS (Retd.), said pensioners possess invaluable knowledge and experience accumulated over decades of public service. He encouraged them to lead lives of integrity and righteousness and serve as ambassadors of Christ by positively influencing society.

Earlier, Kohima Ao Pensioner Telungjem Vice-President L. Chubalepzuk led the gathering in observing a minute’s silence in memory of departed pensioners. The welcome address was delivered by President Dr L Temsu Jamir, while Secretary, N Wati Atsongchanger proposed the vote of thanks.