Member of Parliament, Loka Sabha and President of Nagaland Pradesh Congress Committee (NPCC), S Supongmeren Jamir emphasized the critical importance of time, determination and continuous learning, while emphasizing that time wasted can never be recovered.
Speaking at the 70th General Conference of the Ao Students’ Conference (AKM), which commenced January 13 at Chungtia village, Jamir reminded the delegates that they were chosen representatives from their respective ranges and stressed that failing to contribute meaningfully after attending the conference would be a loss.
Around 1,660 delegates representing all six ranges of the Ao region and various AKM units are participating in the three-day event, which would conclude on January 15. The conference is being held on the theme “Strengthening Horizons.”
Drawing from his experience as a former student leader, Supongmeren said leadership is shaped through mistakes and the willingness to correct them. He emphasized that accepting corrections positively is crucial in developing leadership qualities. He also pointed out that economic challenges remain a major concern for the present generation and cautioned against excessive focus on community, clan, village pride, and comparisons among ranges, which he said have led to divisions and misguided thinking among the youth.
Highlighting the realities of today’s competitive world, Supongmeren stated that opportunities are no longer secured through personal connections, but must be earned through effort and capability. He encouraged students to remain committed to the learning process, warning that neglecting learning could foster attitudes detrimental to one’s future. He further urged the youth to build mental resilience, avoid falling into depression due to failure, and continue striving for success through repeated effort and positive mindset.
Reflecting on the situation in Mokokchung town and the Ao community, Supongmeren called upon the delegates to reflect on issues of responsibility, unity, and progress. He noted that shortcomings in leadership, communication, and shared responsibility have contributed to present challenges, and urged the youth to define clear objectives in life and take collective responsibility for the future of the community.
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Limasunep Jamir, IPS, Special Secretary, Home Department and President of the Ao Officers’ Telongjem, in his address, stressed that a change in mindset is crucial for progress. Referring to the present “AI generation,” he observed that while technology has advanced rapidly, the human mind has not progressed at the same pace. He noted that although the Ao community has its own historical glories as pioneers in many fields, others have also moved ahead, making it necessary to reflect and adapt.
Jamir said that authority often comes with growth, but it also brings vulnerability, which must be acknowledged and overcome. He urged the youth not to withdraw from their responsibilities, cautioning that doing so would lead to regret later in life. While the search for authority is important, he emphasized the need to accept vulnerabilities and win over them through introspection, both at the individual and societal levels.
Calling for exposure to meaningful risks, he questioned whether the present generation is willing to be risk-takers and encouraged them to let go of fear. He highlighted that dignity, moral and ethical foundations, and the ability to manage one’s economy are all closely linked to mindset. Urging counter-intuitive and counter-cultural thinking for development, he called on the gathering to challenge vulnerabilities and embrace a fundamental change in mindset.
Earlier, the conference was formally inaugurated with the hoisting of the AKM flag by Lanutoshi Aier, President, AKM. The opening day also featured a drone show involving over 200 drones, displaying various significant images and words, which would be the first of its kind in the state.
The inaugural programme featured addresses from several leaders and representatives. Assamwati Longchar, Chairman of the Chungtia Village Council, delivered the welcome address, while a brief exhortation was delivered by Marsanen Imsong, President of Ao Senden. Greetings were conveyed by Ajit Kumar Verma, Deputy Commissioner, Mokokchung, and Nuheymong Yimkhuing, President of ENSF. The programme formally commenced with an opening act presented by the Chungtia Students’ Union.
