The 44th General Conference cum Sports Meet of the Asetkong Kaketshir Telongjem Mungdang (AKTM) concluded on January 9 at Kobulong village under Mokokchung district, marking the end of a three-day event held from January 7 to 9.
Addressing the valedictory session virtually, TN Manen, MLA and Advisor for Law & Justice and Land Revenue, underscored the need for students to prepare for a rapidly changing society shaped by technological advancements. Highlighting the growing influence of artificial intelligence and modern communication tools, he encouraged students to adapt and equip themselves to remain relevant in the future. Emphasizing personal responsibility, he said that while circumstances may be beyond one’s control, individual choices ultimately shape the future.
Manen also spoke on education and personal growth, describing youth as a phase rich in ideas and opportunities to learn and share. He urged students to make the best use of their time in educational institutions and stressed that poverty should not deter one from pursuing success, noting that determination and perseverance are key to progress.
On socio-economic development in the Asetkong range, the advisor informed that several initiatives have been undertaken through consultations with village councils and elders, with a focus on unity and collective advancement. He acknowledged the contributions of the Asetkong Economic Resurgence Committee and the Think Tank Committee, and disclosed that new projects are in the pipeline, including a piggery development initiative under the District Plan to be implemented across Asetkong villages. He cautioned that divisions along village lines continue to hinder holistic development in the compact Asetkong range.
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The conference adopted several resolutions for implementation during the 2026–2029 tenure. Among the key decisions was strengthening the Late Imtiwapang Aier “Greening Asetkong Project,” including a proposal to ban the use of air guns and .22 rifles across the Asetkong range in line with government directives and wildlife conservation efforts. This proposal will be tabled as an agenda before the Asetkong Mungdang. The house also resolved to launch a Skill Development Project and to organise programmes aimed at promoting and preserving the Ao language, which was noted as facing declining usage. Continued support to the Asetkong Economic Resurgence Committee was also reaffirmed.
Commending the outgoing AKTM office bearers for their service, Manen encouraged the newly elected team to remain active and forward-looking, assuring them of his support and cooperation.
The three-day conference brought together over 500 delegates from six units:Sungratsu, Mopungchuket, Chami, Kobulong, Longpa, and Longjang and featured sports competitions, cultural parades, debates, panel discussions, interaction sessions with resource persons from various fields, and a brainstorming session led by the Asetkong Economic Resurgence Committee.
The newly elected AKTM office bearers for the 2026–2029 tenure are President Bendangkumzuk Aier (Mopungchuket), Vice President Imzangluba Aier (Longjang), General Secretary Katemmeren (Longpa), and Assistant General Secretary Tekazulu Longchar (Sungratsu).
