AKTM conference concludes; new team elected

The 44th general conference of Asetkong Kaketshir Telongjem Mungdang (AKTM) concluded on January 9 at Kobulong under Mokokchung district. The three-day event brought together over 500 delegates from six units—Sungratsu, Mopungchuket, Chami, Kobulong, Longpa, and Longjang.
The conference featured a wide range of activities including sports competitions, cultural parades, debates, knowledge exchange sessions with resource persons from diverse fields, panel discussions, and a brainstorming session led by the Asetkong Economic Resurgence Committee.
The house adopted several key resolutions to be implemented by the newly elected office bearers. Among them was the decision to strengthen the late Imtiwapang Aier “Greening Asetkong Project” by proposing a ban on the use of air guns and .22 rifles across the Asetkong range, in line with government directives and wildlife conservation efforts. The resolution will be tabled as an agenda to Asetkong Mungdang.
Other resolutions included launching a Skill Development Project during the 2026–2029 tenure and organising programmes to promote and preserve the Ao language, which the conference noted as being at risk due to diminishing use. The AKTM also pledged continued support to the Asetkong Economic Resurgence Committee in its pursuit of sustained socio-economic development.
Delivering the valedictory address virtually, advisor for Law & Justice and Land Revenue, T.N. Manen, said society was witnessing rapid transformation driven by technological advancements. Highlighting the growing impact of artificial intelligence and communication technologies, he urged students to embrace these trends to remain relevant and future-ready.
He reminded the young audience that “tomorrow belongs to those who prepare today,” encouraging them to take responsibility for their choices and actions. “Destiny brings situations beyond your control, but your response to them is your choice—and that choice will determine your future,” he added.
Speaking on education and personal growth, Manen described youth as a period filled with “enthusiasm, ideas, and opportunities to share and learn.” He urged students to fully utilise their time in educational institutions, remarking, “Poverty should never be an excuse to give up. Determination, persistence, and perseverance will lead you to success.”
On socio-economic development in the Asetkong range, Manen informed the gathering that several initiatives had been taken through consultations with village councils and elders, focusing on unity and collective progress. He acknowledged the efforts of the Asetkong Economic Resurgence Committee and the Think Tank Committee, voluntary groups actively working towards socio-economic growth in the area.
He also revealed that new projects are in the pipeline, including an ambitious piggery development initiative under the District Plan, to be implemented across villages in Asetkong.
Stressing the need for unity, he cautioned that “division along village lines remains one of the biggest obstacles to achieving holistic development in our compact Asetkong range.” Commending the outgoing AKTM office bearers for their dedication and service, Manen lauded their efforts in advancing the welfare and aspirations of the student community. He further encouraged the new team to remain steadfast and visionary as they take up their responsibilities, assuring them of his continued support and cooperation.
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 Longcha (Sungratsu).