Youth urged to contribute to collective future of Naga people

Lotha Students’ Union Delhi celebrates Freshers' DayNew Delhi, October 26 (MExN): The Lotha Students’ Union Delhi (LSUD) celebrated its Freshers' Day under the theme “Rooted in Values, Shaping Tomorrow: The Responsibility of Youth” on October 24.Mmhonlumo Kikon, former MLA, author and National General Secretary of National People's Party (NPP), graced the occasion as chief guest. He challenged Lotha students to draw strength from their history, take pride in their identity and contribute meaningfully to the collective future of the Naga people, a press release from LSUD said. Reflecting on the significance of Kyuchu-Yikrachu, Kikon emphasised that Lotha history must be understood beyond the milestones of 1947 and the formation of Nagaland in 1963, acknowledging “the courage, wisdom, and perseverance of earlier generations.”While recognising historical injustices and unequal opportunities, he urged students to “learn from the past without allowing it to define their future.”Recalling pioneers such as Khodao Yanthan, the chief guest called upon young people to develop intellectual strength, sound judgement and ethical leadership.Lotha Students’ Union Delhi celebrated its Freshers’ Day on October 24. He further emphasised that “differences must be addressed through reasoned dialogue and mutual respect rather than escalated into clan or village rivalries.”Drawing on Niketu Iralu's warning against tribal chauvinism, Kikon reminded students that genuine pride in one's community must never come at the expense of fairness, dignity and respect for others.He urged the younger generation to challenge inherited prejudices and discriminatory colonial terminology, stressing that the Naga peace process demands a collective commitment to justice, unity and lasting peace beyond narrow tribal interests.The programme commenced with a welcome address by LSUD President Rendemo Tsanglao, followed by a prayer of blessing for the freshers by Pastor Mhabemo Kithan of Delhi Lotha Baptist Church (DLBC).The guests of honour were Prof Benrithung Murry, Orenthung Kikon, NCS, Abraham Thiumai and Amos Kithan.Delivering a message on the importance of values in shaping individual character and society, guest of honour Prof Benrithung Murry described values as the invisible compass guiding everyday decisions, observing that social values are influenced by traditions, education and media, while personal values are strengthened through conscious choices.He called upon the youth to embrace integrity, compassion and mutual respect as essential principles of leadership and social transformation, and urged students to respond to others' suffering, stand against injustice and revive the mutual respect deeply rooted in Naga heritage.“Values ultimately shape character, and character, in turn, determines the kind of society future generations will inherit,” he said, challenging students to cultivate the right values and become agents of positive change.In his exhortation, Prof Zuchamo Yanthan highlighted the relationship between faith, self-awareness, character and success, explaining that a personal relationship with God helps individuals recognise their strengths, acknowledge their weaknesses and discover their purpose in life.Guest of honour Orenthung Kikon encouraged students to keep God at the centre of their lives and allow their faith to guide their words, actions and relationships. He urged students to pursue higher education for the true value of learning rather than qualifications alone, and encouraged working professionals to view their vocations as opportunities to serve others.He also called upon students to make the most of their opportunities in Delhi-NCR by building meaningful relationships, acquiring new skills and preparing themselves to contribute to Nagaland's sustainable development, while urging young people to represent their heritage with dignity, kindness and integrity.The celebration featured musical and cultural performances by Sojano Tsopoe of Wokha, Bem Khuvung, Keria Khuvung, Echungbeni Shitiri, Nadia Yanthan, Yipen Kikon, the Lotha Music Band, Eternals dance crew and other performers, with a special performance by Abdon Mech captivating the audience.A major highlight was the Naga fashion show competition, in which participants representing different Naga tribes showcased their traditional attire through creative presentations. Lichanbeni Tungoe Kithan and Dr Mercy K. Khaute served as judges for the competition. The event also featured a raffle draw.