Nagaland: Mannen urges Naga youth to uphold vision and unity

The 70th edition of the Ao Students’ Conference (AKM) concluded on January 15, with advisor for Law & Justice and Land Revenue, TN Mannen gracing the valedictory session as the chief guest.
In his address, Mannen lauded the Naga people for their resilience, noting that the international community recognizes their determination in sustaining the world’s longest-running insurgency in pursuit of self-determination. At the same time, he expressed concern over the gradual dilution of the original Naga vision due to persistent divisions and lack of unity.
Speaking on the Naga political settlement, Mannen described it as a collective challenge. “There was unity in the past when people and political groups were one,” he said, emphasizing that today, the community is fragmented into 28 factions. He urged the public to revive the shared vision and uphold the sacrifices of previous leaders.
Addressing the youth, Mannen called on them to take responsibility for carrying the struggle forward. He warned that while the desire for a peaceful resolution remains strong, fragmentation among civil society organizations, churches, and underground groups raises questions about the collective strength of the Naga community.
Mannen also highlighted the link between political stability and development. “We talk about development, but unless the political issue is settled, there will be no progress,” he said. He emphasized that the community’s educated youth represent a tremendous resource that must be harnessed through productive investments, self-employment, and private sector opportunities, rather than overreliance on government employment.
The 70th AKM General Conference also adopted several key resolutions to guide the incoming leadership team. The new office bearers for the 2026–29 tenure are:
Lanulemba Longchar, Sungratsü (AKTM) was elected as the new president, Bendangangba, Chungtiayimsen (TKM) as vice president, Aomayang Longkumer, and Waromung (JKTM) as the general secretary.