The Ao Lanur Telongjem (ALT), the Ao community’s top youth organization, was formally established under the Ao Senden’s auspices in a momentous occasion. Until its constitution is established, ALT will function in an interim capacity, with the presidents of the Mokokchung Town Lanur Telongjem (MTLT) and Dimapur Ao Lanur Telongjem (DAYO) serving as convener and co-convener, respectively. Marsanen Imsong, president of Ao Senden, spoke at the launch and emphasized the youth’s participation in Ao Naga village politics and their significance in determining the future of the community.
He announced the appointment of a committee to prepare the constitution, headed by convener Imlikumzuk Longkumer, and charged MTLT and DAYO with organizing other young groups in the interim. A major issue in Naga society, according to Imsong, is the Ao Lanur Telongjem’s resolute pursuit of the truth and opposition to corrupt or polarizing influences. He said, “What you do today will determine whether our community will rise or fall tomorrow,” and he urged the group to be guided by the values of courage, faith, and honesty.
