SDEO Zunheboto Y Mughaho Zhimo, ZTC Councillor Kakiho Achumi along with others during the District-Level Viksit Bharat Youth Parliament 2026 at Zunheboto Government College on March 5. (Morung Photo)
Morung Express News
Zunheboto | March 5
The District-Level Viksit Bharat Youth Parliament 2026 was held at Zunheboto Government College (ZGC) on March 5, where speakers reflected on the lessons of the Emergency and emphasised the need to safeguard democratic values and institutions.
Organised under the aegis of the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India, the programme was held under the theme “50 Years of Emergency: Lesson for Indian Democracy.”
Gracing the occasion as special guest, Y Mughaho Zhimo, Senior Sub-Divisional Education Officer (SDEO), Zunheboto, emphasised that democracy is both precious and fragile.
Reflecting on the lessons from the Emergency period in India, he stated that democracy is not merely about elections but about safeguarding freedoms including freedom of speech and expression as well as the freedom to question authority.
These rights, he said, must never be taken for granted, Zhimo added.
He further noted that strong institutions are the backbone of a functioning democracy, stressing that Parliament, the judiciary, media, and civil society must function independently and responsibly, as any weakening of these pillars affects the entire democratic structure.
Citing the 1977 general elections, the SDEO said the peaceful transfer of power reaffirmed that ultimate authority in a democracy rests with the people and strengthened faith in the Constitution.
Addressing the youth, he held that development should not be measured solely by GDP, infrastructure, or technology. A truly developed nation is one where citizens are fearless, well-informed, courageous, and actively participating in democratic processes, he said.
He encouraged young people to ask questions, engage in meaningful dialogue, respect differing opinions, and stand firm for constitutional values.
“The Emergency is not a chapter meant to create division, but to build awareness,” he said, adding that it teaches the importance of vigilance, responsibility, and balancing power with accountability.
He urged the participants to let the Youth Parliament inspire leadership rooted in ethics, integrity, and constitutional commitment.
Special Invitee, Kakiho Achumi, Councillor of Zunheboto Town Council spoke on the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, which aims to transform India into a strong, inclusive, and sustainable nation by the centenary of Independence.
National development cannot be achieved by the efforts of a few alone but requires collective responsibility from every state, community, and citizen, he said.
Highlighting Nagaland’s rich culture, heritage, vibrant traditions, and natural beauty, Achumi said the state holds immense potential to contribute meaningfully to the nation’s growth.
He emphasised the need to invest in quality education, skill development, infrastructure, digital connectivity, and sustainable tourism to create opportunities for youth and strengthen the local economy.
At the same time, the Councillor stressed that development must not come at the cost of identity, underscoring the importance of preserving indigenous culture, language, and traditions.
Noting that around 65 percent of India’s population is below 35 years, he said the nation’s future rests with its youth and urged students to embrace innovation, respect diversity, and uphold democratic values.
He also noted that development should not be measured solely by GDP or infrastructure but by accessible education, inclusive healthcare, digital connectivity, and transparent governance.
Appreciating ongoing developmental initiatives in the district, he called upon citizens to work collectively toward a prosperous and united future.
Earlier, the programme was chaired by Hurato Rhakho, Programme Officer of the National Service Scheme (NSS) and Assistant Professor in the Department of Geography at ZGC, who delivered the introductory address, while Vice Principal H Jekugha Sema welcomed the gathering.
In the Youth Parliament session held as part of the event, Veto S Achumi secured first place, followed by Mughaka Chishi in second and Isakali G Yeptho in third. Assutoli Aye Shenunu and Aloino Kappo placed fourth and fifth, respectively.
The programme was organised by the NSS Programme Officers of ZGC — Tsuham T Lam, Roselin C Chang, Rampauding Chuilo, and Hurato Rhakho.
