The Kohima Aor Pensioner Telungjem (Kohima Ao Pensioner Union) held its fourth general meeting at the KABA Jubilee Memorial Centre on July 24, with former Governor of Goa, Maharashtra, Gujarat and Odisha and former Chief Minister of Nagaland, Dr S.C. Jamir, as the guest speaker.
Addressing the gathering, Jamir spoke about the historical contributions of the Ao community to the spread of Christianity and education in Nagaland. He said the Aos became among the first communities in Nagaland to embrace Christianity following the arrival of the American Baptist Mission and subsequently contributed to the spread of the Gospel across the state.
He also recalled the political developments following World War II, stating that the Naga political situation, which was in turmoil at the time, was brought together under the leadership of Dr Imkongliba Ao through the formation of the Naga People’s Convention.
Jamir said the Aos had played a pioneering role among the Nagas in education, politics and the spread of Christianity.
On Naga political issues, Jamir spoke about the challenges posed by tribalism, factionalism, insurgency and corruption. He called upon Ao pensioners to use the knowledge and wisdom gained during their years of service to contribute towards improvements in administration, development and the electoral system.
“You can impart your knowledge and wisdom on different platforms such as the churches and other social and political platforms,” he said.
E.T. Sunep, IAS (Retd), in his exhortation, said pensioners had accumulated considerable knowledge through years of experience and encounters. He urged them to maintain virtuous character and lead righteous lives as they aged, while encouraging them to serve as ambassadors of Christ.
During the programme, KAPT vice-president L. Chubalepzuk led a minute’s silence in honour and remembrance of deceased pensioners. KAPT president Dr L. Temsu Jamir delivered the welcome address, while KAPT secretary N. Wati Atsongchanger proposed the vote of thanks.