In a landmark event for the Ao community, the Ao Lanur Telungjem, touted as the apex youth organization of the Aos, was formally launched today at Aor Kilem under the aegis of Ao Senden. The organization will function with an interim structure, led by the president of the Mokokchung Town Lanur Telungjem (MTLT), Imnaonen, as convener and the president of Dimapur Ao Lanur Telungjem (DAYO), Tia Longchar, as co-convener.

Speaking at the launch, Ao Senden president Marsanen Imsong emphasized the indispensable role of youth in traditional Ao Naga village polity and outlined the vision for the newly formed Ao Lanur Telungjem. He announced the appointment of a constitution drafting committee with Imlikumzuk Longkumer as its convener and tasked the interim body with mobilizing other youth organizations across the community.

Marsanen highlighted the importance of preserving unity and integrity within the organization, urging its members to remain steadfast in the pursuit of truth and to avoid falling prey to divisive interests. “What you do today will determine whether our community will rise or fall tomorrow,” he said, encouraging the youth to act with courage and faith in God.

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He also pointed out the challenges posed by pervasive corruption in Naga society, stating that it erodes courage and hinders the pursuit of truth. The Ao Senden president administered an oath of commitment to the convener and co-convener, who pledged to lead the interim body in truth and service to the Ao community and Nagaland.

The event featured speeches from Noklennungsang Jamir and Tongror Luden of Ao Senden, as well as Lipokmeren, president of Ongpangkong Mungdang. Both the convener and co-convener of the Ao Lanur Telungjem (Interim Body) delivered acceptance speeches, expressing their commitment to the organization’s objectives.

The program concluded with a dedicatory prayer led by Bendang Jamir, Associate Pastor of Mokokchung Town Baptist Church.