The 34th General Conference of Langpangpkong Kaketshir Mungdang (Langpangpkong Students’ Conference), under the theme “Mongjen Mesemshidi (Rekindling Legacy)”, commenced on January 8 at the T. Sentichuba Amphitheatre, Mongsenyimti. The two-day conference has drawn 205 delegates from 19 villages under the Langpangpkong range. Delegates attending the conference are from the villages of Kelingmen, Yaongyimti, Changtongya, Chuchuyimlang, Unger, Merangkong, Salulem, Changtongya Yimsen, Longkong, Akhoya, Kangtsung, Wameken, Yaongyimsen, Chakpa, Asangma, Anaki Yimsen, Anaki Old, Anaki C, and Mongsenyimti.
The two-day conference will conclude on January 9.
Speaking on the theme “Mongjen Mesemshidi (Rekindling Legacy)”, Meyionen Jamir emphasised the need to revive and strengthen the legacy built by earlier generations. He urged the LKM delegates and students to reflect on past achievements, in the field of sports, education, and questioned whether the strong presence once seen from the region was gradually diminishing. Calling for renewed commitment, he encouraged the students of LKM to make a legacy of their generation while rekindling the past legacy is essential.
Explaining the theme for deeper understanding, Jamir elaborated on the literal meaning of the words in the local language and related them to English terms such as rekindle, restoration, innovation, rejuvenation, renewal, revival, revamp and reform. He stated that “rekindling legacy” involves carrying forward responsibilities along with the past glory and good deeds, while also looking back to acknowledge the foundations laid by earlier leaders.
Highlighting the role of LKM, he said the organisation carries the cross of responsibility in preserving the region’s legacy and fostering unity and healthy relationships. He stressed the importance of working together by bringing all possible avenues into cooperation for collective progress.
Acknowledging the positive efforts of the students, Jamir encouraged them to continue working with greater vision and clearer goals, stating that the present time demands renewed positive action. He further remarked that while Nagaland is often described as a land of opportunity for others, for many Nagas it has become a “land of unemployment,” underscoring the need to rekindle the legacy with renewed purpose and direction.
Tongpang Ozukum, MLA and Chairman, DPDB Mokokchung, Government of Nagaland, graced the inaugural programme with his presence, while I. Meyionen Jamir, retired Chief Information Commissioner, Government of Nagaland, attended the event as the main speaker and spoke on the conference theme.
Tongpang Ozukum, in his address, congratulated and acknowledged Langpangpkong Students’ Conference (LKM) students who have excelled in academics and various competitive examinations during the 33rd to 34th editions.
Highlighting key concerns affecting the region, he spoke on the declining rural population and questioned the reasons behind migration from villages, citing health, livelihood, and education as the primary factors. He stressed that equal attention must be given to those who remain in the villages and urged students to closely monitor and ensure the condition of educational institutions in the Langpangpkong region through consistent inspection and follow-up.
Download Nagaland Tribune app on Google Play
Referring to the increasing number of Naga public organisations and associations, Ozukum stated that the matter was discussed in the Nagaland Legislative Assembly under matters of urgent public importance. While no final decision has been made, he said there was a common understanding among the speakers to share awareness and wisdom on the issue across all platforms, particularly among students.
He also acknowledged LKM’s advocacy for clean election campaigns, initiated seven to eight years ago, and said the practice has contributed positively to the region. He encouraged students to strengthen and carry forward such initiatives in more practical ways.
Applauding the Langpangpkong citizens’ practice of organising conferences as a one-day programme, Ozukum termed it a committed step towards positive change, noting that even with a shorter format, the conference continues to remain strong. He called for honouring good decisions and said the impact of an organisation should be measured not by the number of days a conference is held, but by the quality of work accomplished during its tenure.
Touching upon government policies, he urged students to view the merger policy of schools positively and stressed the need for adequate infrastructure for both teachers and students. He advised that such demands should be pursued through due procedure rather than agitation, encouraging students to claim their rights while also reviewing development works.
He further asked the students to reflect on LKM’s journey over the past 15 to 20 years, stating that past achievements alone would not ensure progress, and urged them to focus on studying hard and smart to revive and strengthen the organisation.
The opening ceremony was presented by the Mongsenyimti Students’ Union, with the programme conducted by the office of LKM. Aosungit Ozüküm, Chairman, Village Council Mongsenyimti, delivered the welcome address, while Tongpangmangyang, President, Ongpangkong Kaketshir Mungdang (OKM), and Imomanen Tzüdir, President, Jangpetkong Kaketshir Telungjem Mungdang (JKTM), delivered the greeting messages. A minute of silence was first observed in memory of the departed souls, followed by the invocation pronounced by Linukyanger, Pastor of Mongsenyimti Baptist Church. Special songs were later presented by Mentinaro Lemtur and Limanenla Lkr.
