Governor Yadav along with other officials and faculty of Tetso College during a valedictory programme of the 3rd Dr PS Lorin Education and Media Conclave at Tetso College, Chümoukedima, on November 5. (Morung Photo)
Morung Express News
Chümoukedima | November 5
Nagaland Governor Nand Kishore Yadav has stressed the need for local voices to narrate the histories and experiences of Nagaland and the Northeast, stating that stories told predominantly from outside the region often result in an incomplete representation of its society.
Addressing the valedictory session of Phase One of the 3rd Dr PS Lorin Education and Media Conclave at Tetso College, Chümoukedima, Yadav said local communities must tell their own stories with accuracy, dignity and confidence.
Paying tribute to the late Dr PS Lorin for his vision and foundational contribution to higher education, the Governor highlighted the growth of Tetso College as a prominent institution promoting research, intellectual development and cultural harmony across linguistic and geographical boundaries.
Yadav observed that Nagaland was characterised by vibrant communities, rich oral traditions, diverse languages, music, crafts and customary institutions, along with a deep connection to the environment. While acknowledging the contributions of outside perspectives, he emphasised that people of the region must articulate their own experiences to present a fuller and more balanced image of Nagaland to the world.
The Governor stressed that the younger generation must remain rooted in its cultural identity while developing critical thinking, media literacy, digital capabilities and research skills to meet the demands of a changing world.
On media responsibility, he underscored that accuracy must take precedence over speed amid the rapid circulation of information through digital platforms. In a close-knit society like Nagaland, media practitioners were urged to exercise social sensitivity, document indigenous knowledge, hold institutions accountable and highlight stories of innovation, resilience and community service.
At the same time, he encouraged students and young people to use modern tools, including mobile devices, podcasts, research papers and digital platforms, to preserve the memories of elders and document local histories. However, he cautioned against sensationalism and urged to prioritise evidence, verify information before sharing it, and respect human dignity and cultural contexts.
Phase One of the conclave concluded with formal proceedings, with the organisers announcing that Phase Two, themed “Young Storytellers, Visual Media, and Global Storytelling,” would be held on January 15, 2027.
The second phase will feature award-winning Naga filmmaker and director Thejario, whose film Um premiered at the 2026 Toronto International Film Festival and won the Platform Prize. The programme will focus on visual media workshops and exploring ways to take indigenous narratives to international audiences.
The valedictory programme began with an invocation by Yabang Longkumer, Pastor of Covenant Baptist Church, Dimapur, while Dr Hewasa L Khing, Principal of Tetso College, delivered the welcome address.
The Tetso College School of Music led the College Anthem, “Strive for Excellence,” while Allayana Zekova R Marak, BPA Music 1st Semester, presented a special performance of “Hmm Angai.”
