Nagaland Chief Minister Dr. Neiphiu Rio on Wednesday attended the 70th conference of the Ao Kaketshir Mungdang (AKM) as the special guest at Chungtia Village, where he paid tribute to the long and pioneering role of the Ao community and spoke openly about the challenges facing Nagaland today. Addressing the gathering under the theme “Strengthening Horizons,” the Chief Minister thanked the AKM, the people of Chungtia Village, and the Ao community for hosting the milestone event. He recalled how Ao pioneers played a key role in shaping Naga society, saying their vision was not limited to one tribe but was aimed at the overall growth and welfare of all Nagas.
Referring to the AKM motto, “For the Nation,” Dr. Rio described it as a message rooted in service and sacrifice. He said the Ao tribe’s contribution to education, leadership, and social development has left a lasting impact on Nagaland’s journey. The state government, he added, continues to recognise the Ao areas as the “Land of Pioneers” in acknowledgment of this legacy.The Chief Minister then spoke frankly about several issues confronting Naga society. These included the unresolved Naga political issue, growing divisions within society, and governance-related concerns such as the Inner Line Permit system, protection of special constitutional provisions, and responsible use of the state’s mineral resources. He stressed that these challenges cannot be addressed by one group alone and called for unity, mutual respect, and teamwork among all Naga tribes.
Highlighting steps taken by the state government, Dr. Rio mentioned initiatives like the Register of Indigenous Inhabitants of Nagaland and the consultative meeting held on September 12, 2024, where various stakeholders came together to discuss the political issue and related concerns.He urged people to move away from a culture of blame and instead resolve differences through honest dialogue and discussion. Addressing the youth in particular, the Chief Minister said the legacy of the forefathers should not remain only in history books but must be carried forward through responsible action.
