Nagaland: Achumbemo emphazises education, unity at YAA 60th general conference

NPF secretary general, Achumbemo Kikon MLA on Tuesday called for greater emphasis on education, unity and adaptability, stating that confidence rooted in learning was vital for the Naga community to remain relevant in a rapidly changing world.
Addressing the conference on “Bridging Traditions and Innovations” during the 60th general conference of Yimkhiung Students’ Association (YAA), Achumbemo said traditions must be preserved but creatively adapted to modern realities. “We cannot part ways with our traditions, but we must innovate and adapt to changing times,” he remarked, citing cultural designs reinterpreted in contemporary forms as an example.
Stressing that education was the foundation of confidence and social acceptance, he urged students to move beyond a “backward mindset” and reject labels of inferiority. “None of us are forward or backward. We are equal and must progress together,” he said, cautioning that overreliance on mobile phones for knowledge was eroding serious learning and reading habits.
He also appealed for unity and reconciliation within Naga society, warning that prolonged mistrust and “cold wars” between communities yield no benefit.
Drawing lessons from history, he said conflicts could not be resolved through force but only through dialogue and negotiation. “No community can finish another by waging war. History has taught us that,” he added.
Referring to local reconciliation efforts, Achumbemo said such initiatives should be sincere and enduring so that they could serve as a model for wider Naga unity. He further highlighted environmental concerns, urging citizens to plan Shamator as a model township with proper roads, sanitation and waste segregation in view of climate change impacts.
Calling upon young people to think beyond village and tribal boundaries, he said true progress lay in education, adaptability and collective responsibility, enabling Nagas to stand “no less than any other community” in the wider world.