Former Governor of Odisha, Goa, Maharashtra and Gujarat and former Chief Minister of Nagaland, Dr SC Jamir today urged elders, leaders and society at large to take responsibility for the condition of the world being handed over to the youth.

Speaking at the inaugural of Dr SC Jamir Meritorious Award Ceremony, organized by Ongpangkong Students’ Conference (OKM) at Mokokchung Town Hall, he asked, “Have we prepared our Naga society for the youth?” and challenged the older generation to reflect on their role in shaping the future.

Addressing a gathering of students, community leaders, and cultural representatives, Dr. Jamir spoke candidly about the disconnect between outdated mindsets and modern realities, warning that societies which fail to evolve risk being left behind.

“What we talked about 50 years ago no longer resonates today. You are no longer in Medemsanger or Mejemsanger Putu but in the 21st Century,” he told the student community, referring to traditional Ao village governance systems.

Calling for unity among Nagas, Dr. Jamir expressed concern over increasing divisions and the decline of moral values. “From top to bottom, we are corrupted. The greatest famine in Naga society is honesty and truth,” he said, lamenting the erosion of integrity and collective identity.

Despite his strong remarks, Dr. Jamir expressed hope that student bodies like OKM will be instrumental in guiding Nagas toward a more progressive and inclusive future.

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The Dr. SC Jamir Meritorious Award, instituted to recognize academic excellence within the Ongpangkong range, was awarded to Moamenla B. Kichu (Top 9, HSLC 2024) and Moasanen Pongen Tematiba (Top 2, HSLC 2025), both students of Fernwood School, Kohima and natives of Aliba village. Each received a certificate and a cash prize of ₹20,000.

The program featured several speakers and cultural presentations. OKM President Tongpangmangyang Kichu delivered the welcome address, while Alemtoshi Imsong President of Ongpangkong Mungdang gave an exhortation. Both awardees also gave short speeches. Senti Walling, Convenor of the Dr. SC Jamir Meritorious Award Trust Committee, gave the vote of thanks.

Songs were presented by Aliba Kaketshir Telongjem and Chuchuyimpang Kaketshir Telongjem. The invocation was pronounced by Rev. Dr. Bendang Lkr, Pastor of Artang Baptist Arogo, and the closing prayer was led by Rev. Puryapang, Pastor of Yimyu Baptist Arogo.