Nagaland Deputy Chief Minister TR Zeliang on Tuesday called upon the youth of Nagaland to rise above tribal divisions and embrace unity, discipline, and social responsibility, describing tribalism as the “single greatest hindrance to the growth and prosperity” of the state.
Speaking at the 22nd Biennial General Conference of the All Nagaland College Students’ Union (ANCSU) held at St. Xavier College, Jalukie Town, Zeliang lauded the Union for its continued role in promoting education and student welfare since its inception in 1979. The event also marked the dedication of a Smart Classroom, a commemorative Monolith, and the unfurling of the Union Flag.
Addressing the theme of the conference, ”Leadership and Social Responsibility,” Zeliang said that leadership “is about vision, service, and example, not authority or position.” He reminded students that social responsibility gives leadership its moral compass and that true progress must come from unity of purpose and empathy toward others.
Highlighting the dangers of tribalism, he said, “Once we are out of Nagaland, we introduce ourselves as Nagas, not as Ao, Angami, or Zeliang. Why can we not do the same within Nagaland and stop tribalism altogether so that all Nagas can live together as one united family?”
Encouraging students to use technology, education, and global exposure wisely, Zeliang urged them to “be the generation that builds rather than blames, that unites rather than divides.” He also reminded them that leadership begins with initiative, not position, quoting former US President John F Kennedy: “Ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country.”
The Deputy Chief Minister concluded by expressing hope that the 22nd Biennial Conference of ANCSU would inspire a new generation of Naga youth to “lead with wisdom, act with compassion, and dream with courage.”
