The Ganglei Area Students Union (GASU), representing students and the younger generation of the Ganglei Area in Myanmar’s Lahe Township Naga Self Administrative Zone (NSAZ), Myanmar, has extended its best wishes to the Eastern Nagaland Peoples’ Organisation (ENPO) and the people of the six eastern districts following the establishment of the Frontier Nagaland Territorial Authority (FNTA).
In a message of commendation and goodwill, GASU described the establishment of the FNTA as “an important stage in the continuing development of Eastern Nagaland,” saying it reflected the long-standing aspirations of its people for greater recognition, effective institutions, equitable development and improved opportunities for future generations.
The union said the achievement of the people of Eastern Nagaland was a source of pride and encouragement to communities sharing a common heritage and commitment to the advancement and welfare of their people.
GASU also highlighted the longstanding ties between communities on both sides of the India-Myanmar border. It said the Ganglei Area comprises 14 villages, including Longwa and Longwa Wasa, in the easternmost part of the Konyak homeland across the international boundary between India and Myanmar.
According to GASU, the communities remain connected through kinship, history, culture and shared heritage, while the Ganglei Mountain remains an important geographical landmark and symbol of their homeland. It also noted longstanding geographical and cultural connections with the Wancho community of Arunachal Pradesh.
“These shared ties give practical expression to a principle that has long guided our communities: ‘UNITY IS STRENGTH,’” the union stated, adding that administrative and international boundaries do not alter the bonds of kinship, history and shared identity among the people.
GASU expressed hope that the FNTA would provide a strong institutional foundation for good governance, public welfare, inclusive development, quality education, accessible healthcare, improved connectivity and greater economic opportunities, particularly for the younger generation.
It further said the development could have a wider positive impact on border communities through improved connectivity, greater economic opportunities and stronger community links, contributing to stability and cooperation among communities with longstanding social, cultural and familial ties.
The students’ union also stressed that institutional development carries a corresponding responsibility to the public. It expressed confidence that the work ahead would be guided by integrity, accountability, justice, public service and respect for the rule of law, with development benefits reaching communities and villages fairly.
GASU conveyed its goodwill to the ENPO and the people of Tuensang, Mon, Longleng, Kiphire, Noklak and Shamator, and wished the FNTA success in fulfilling its purpose and contributing to a peaceful, prosperous and dignified future for the people of Eastern Nagaland.
The message was signed by Ashah v Anok, vice president, and Kh. Khampei Ranwang, general secretary, Ganglei Area Students Union.