Kobulong, January 9 (www.nokinketer.in): The 44th Asetkong Kaketshir Telongjem Mungdang (AKTM) General Conference concluded on a high note at Kobulong under Mokokchung district on Jan 9.
The three-day event, held from Jan 7 to 9, brought together over 500 delegates from six units—Sungratsu, Mopungchuket, Chami, Kobulong, Longpa, and Longjang.
The conference featured a variety 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.
Due to unavoidable circumstances, T.N. Manen, MLA and Advisor for Law & Justice and Land Revenue, was unable to attend the valedictory session in person but addressed the gathering virtually.
In his message, Manen noted that society today is 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 said.
Speaking on the importance of education and personal growth, the advisor described youth as a period filled with “enthusiasm, ideas, and opportunities to share and learn.”
He urged students to fully utilize 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. Manen also revealed that new projects are in the pipeline, including an ambitious piggery development initiative under the District Plan, which will 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 also encouraged the new team to remain steadfast and visionary as they take up their responsibilities, assuring them of his continued support and cooperation.
The conference concluded with the adoption of 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, which will be tabled as an agenda to Asetkong Mungdang.
The house also resolved to launch a Skill Development Project during the 2026–2029 tenure, as well as organize various programmes to promote and preserve the Ao language, which the conference noted as being at risk due to diminishing use.
Additionally, the AKTM pledged continued support to the Asetkong Economic Resurgence Committee in its pursuit of sustained socio-economic development.
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).
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The Nokinketer 