Manipur Mail – Page 52

HLL Life Care Ltd – A Success Story

M. Jacob Abraham , Deputy Director, PIB, Thiruvananthapuram.
HLL Life Care Ltd, Thiruvananthapuram under the Union Health and Family Welfare Ministry has become one of the largest producers of condoms in the world. HLL’s total annual condom production capacity has now touched 1616 million pieces. Overseas and domestic demand for condoms has grown manifold especially in the wake of the Central government’s launch of free condom distribution in rural districts which is a high-focus area for HLL. The company has started a major drive to augment production capacity in its units. As part of this action plan, the production capacity at its primary production plants in Peroorkada unit has been enhanced from 1,066 to 1,246 million pieces per annum by installing two moulding machines. The company also manufactures condoms at its Belgaum and Hyderabad units, apart from Peroorkada.
“Demand in the domestic and the overseas markets are on the rise. We are also on a major expansion drive to cope with the need. In the last three months, we have added a capacity of 120 million pieces. Another round of expansion has also been planned”, said HLL Chairman and Managing Director Dr. M. Ayyappan. “We supplied around 1,040 million condoms to the Health Ministry alone last year. There has been added pressure with the Government launching door-to-door delivery of condoms free of cost to stabilize the population. Besides, a rising awareness among people is also driving demand in the domestic sector. We are looking to bolster production considerably during 2013-14 and remain as one of the world leaders”, he added.
Health Ministry has identified 266 high-focus districts in the country to deliver contraceptives at people’s doorsteps with the help of accredited social health activists (AHSAs) as part of efforts at population control. HLL is the main supplier of products .
As part of its drive to optimise production and minimise wastage, the company has also installed a new vulcanising machine. The new machine would help keep heat distribution at an optimum level resulting in reduction of process wastages and rejections in vulcanising section apart from reducing energy consumption. The company also launched trial production of an over-wrapping machine in the packaging section.
Female Condoms, Femidom
Female condoms made their entry into the Indian market through HLL Lifecare Ltd. While sales are slow among urban women, the female condom is being promoted by government bodies and NGOs among sex workers as protection against HIV/AIDS. Dr. M. Ayyappan noted, “Currently, we are manufacturing around three million female condoms and 1,600 million male condoms annually for the Indian and overseas markets. The difference in numbers says it all.” He attributes the reason to conservative mindsets, ignorance about the product and accessibility. Since the Indian market is slow to accept the production, HLL took a decade to make the male condom as popular as it is now. Dr. Ayyappan is confident that the female condom too will begin to make an impact in the right direction in a matter of years. HLL plans to introduce the natural latex based female condom by mid 2013 in the market.
The female condom was invented by Dr. Lasse Hessel, a Danish physician in the 1980s. The first generation FC1 female condom was made from polyurethane. First introduced in the market in the nineties, the Femidom or female condom came at a time when people were waking up to the scary reality of AIDS.
Condoms are still considered a men’s product. At the global level the female condom was quick to catch people’s attention, thanks to aggressive marketing techniques. This product received mixed reviews from different quarters of the world. Getting used to the idea of wearing a condom, for most women, was not worth the effort. Slowly, in other countries, the Femidom made a difference in the lives of women who did not have a say in their sexual health before the product came into their lives. Women were using it to protect themselves against partners who refused to wear condoms.
Most people are still unaware of female condom or do not have access to it. Reports state that the demand though has come from unexpected quarters like developing countries where women felt empowered with choice to use protection.
The next version, FC2, was made from synthetic nitrile at a reduced cost. The World Health organization (WHO) approved the FC2 for purchase by U.N.agencies in developing countries where the Femidom played a strong role in sex education programmes for women.
From an acceptability study conducted by Hindustan Latex Family Planning Promotion Trust (HLFPPT) in Andhra Pradesh, Kerala and Maharashtra, it was found that people were open to the idea of using female condom. More than 90,000 female condoms were marketed in Andhra Pradesh through a social marketing programme in 2006. The following year, a similar plan was executed in Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, Maharashtra and West Bengal. In 2008, National AIDS Control Organization (NACO) decided to make female condom available to sex workers in Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra and West Bengal. FC2 female condom gives women control and choice over their own sexual health as women can protect themselves when their partner does not want to use a male condom. Women in urban and rural areas in India have not started using Femidom to complement already existing family planning and HIV/AIDS programming.
HLL has its female condom assembling facility at Cochin Special Economic Zone (CSE), Kakkanad. “Currently the annual capacity of Kochi factory is 7.5 million pieces. We will be adding another 25 million by the end of this year. Apart from supplying female condoms to national programmes under the ministry of health and family welfare, we also export female condoms to be South Asian Association of Regional Co-operation (SAARC) markets”, said Dr. M. Ayyappan. “Female condoms have the potential to revolutionize safer sex for diverse populations. They are also the only women – initiated method available today that offers dual protection from unintended pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections including HIV”, Dr. Ayyappan explained. Global female condom day is being observed on September 12 every year. HLL produces female condom under the brand name “Velvet”.
(PIB Features.)
With inputs from HLL Life Care Ltd., Thiruvananthapuram, a Public Sector undertaking under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/hll-life-care-ltd-a-success-story/

Internal bickering

The fight between BJP and JD (U) over leadership issue will end in breaking up NDA with the later opting for a way that it considers is favourable to its survival. JD (U) understands that no party will be able to survive without the support of the people. The party feels that there is erosion in its vote bank since it worked together with BJP. No political party wants to face Telegu Desam fate, which suffered complete rout after it allied with BJP. JD (U) is apprehensive if it continues to ally with BJP its vote bank mostly those belonging to minority community may be plucked away by Laloo. Therefore Narendra Modi factor was brought into the picture by JD (U) and on this premise the party will break away from NDA. As Narendra Modi climbs political ladder BJP has alienated minority community. The allies of the BJP know that. Unlike other political parties which look to the leadership as internal matter of the leading party, JD (U) cannot not control all that is brewing in the minds of the top leadership of the JD (U). It has stated openly it will not be able to go together with BJP if Modi would be projected as prime ministerial candidate. Neither BJP can say it will not project Modi as its prime ministerial candidate nor it can afford to lose an important major ally like JD (U). One thing that needs to be discussed is the aftermath in the event of projection of someone other than Modi as prime ministerial candidate of BJP. Will Modi think of floating a party of his own and decide to lead a third front minus BJP and Congress? It is said Modi is not banking on BJP alone to project him as prime ministerial candidate. He has used different forums to project himself and started speaking like a prime ministerial candidate of BJP. Modi considers himself as a popular candidate. He thinks and other leaders in BJP lack the charisma to pull voters. Many in BJP know the possibility of BJP led ally forming Government at the centre will be remote unless BJP alone wins not less than 200 seats. Will it be possible? That is one million dollar question being asked now. Moreover the party has suffered rout in every state where elections were held. This party will continue to face rejections when elections are held in many states where elections are due this year. Perhaps for these reasons JD (U) wanted to maintain safe distance from the BJP. Bihar does not have mineral resources and it cannot survive on its own without active support from the centre. Nitish Kumar, Bihar Chief Minister had said it will extend support to the party that can recognise Bihar as a special state. Which party can meet the demand of the JD (U)? The answer is in everybody’s mind. When JD (U) becomes a partner of UPA it will not evoke amazement to the onlookers.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/internal-bickering/

Opposition parties held meeting

Eleven political party of the state held a meeting with the public in an object to changes the present government of congress as they have failed in every sector in their governance on Tuesday.
The eleven non-congress party are CPI, MPP, MSCP, JD-U, CP-M, AITC, Siva Sena, BSP, FB Manipur unit, JDS and RSP held a meeting with the public at Siva Sena office at Tera Yengkhom Leirak Machin here in Imphal.
In the meeting with the public various leaders of the political partyspokes and said that the congress government is full of corruption, crime, lawless, no systematic in the governance which largely affected the poor people of the state and the government became a big contractor for their personal gain.
The meeting was organized by the eleven political parties in an aim to bring change in the state by removing ruling congress government.
Today meeting was a first of its kind against the ruling government particularly congress.Agencies

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/opposition-parties-held-meeting/

Talks with HPC D

AIZAWL, April 16 NNN: The Joint Monitoring Group, which has been constituted to monitor ‘Suspension of Operation’ (SoO) between Mizoram government and Hmar Peoples Convention-Democratic (HPC-D) are all set to hold talks on coming Friday at Sakawrdai, Mizoram. The talks will be held at the Tourist Lodge.
the Joint Monitoring Group will review implementation of Suspension of Operation by both the parties.
The Mizoram government side is to be headed by the SP CID (SB), H. Ramthlengliana while the HPC (D) will be represented by the outfit’s leaders including Francis Songate, Lalbeiseia and Sangneihkunga.
It may be recalled that the Suspension of Operation agreed to by both the parties in their meeting on January 31 this year is for a period of 6 months.
It worth mentioning here that for the first time on February 9, 2011 the SoO was signed betwen the two parties for six months. However, after signing the earlier SoO, the relation between the HPC-D and the Mizoram government experienced a rough weather. In view of that, the SoO was never extended again even after the lapse of the six month period.
Since 1986, the Hmar People’s Convention (HPC) has been demanding for the creation of Hmar Autonomous District in Mizoram. In spite of the Peace Accord that was inked between the Government of Mizoram and the HPC, there was no concrete solution to address and redress the rights of the Hmar People. “As a result, the HPC (D) has been continuous the same demand in Mizoram to redress the historical and political injustices. Acknowledging the matter, the Centre (Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India) has been pressurising the Government of Mizoram to settle the political issues of the Hmars immediately. Following this and to pursue the unfinished agenda, the Government of Mizoram and the HPC (D) signed the Suspension of Operation (SoO) on November 11, 2010 for a period of six months. The SoO document was signed by Lalropui, Army Chief HPC (D) and the Home Secretary Shri. Lalmalsawma, Government of Mizoram,” HPC-D leader L Sangma Hmar had stated sometime in last October.
The Hmar outfit leader had then alleged that the Government of Mizoram had failed to nurture the peace process with seriousness, which resulted in derailing the hard earned peace process. In the context of Manipur, the HPC (D) political interest is collectively shared with the United People’s Front (UPF), currently under SoO with the Government of India and the Government of Manipur. The UPF demands for an Autonomous Hill States within the state of Manipur. The HPC (D) did not sign the SoO documents in Manipur alone but as UPF, the document is collectively shared and signed along with the UPF members: KNF, KRA (U), UKLF, ZDV and ZRA. The HPC (D) has its designated Camp in Ankhasuo with ninety four (94) cadres enlisted. In Manipur, the HPC (D) will continue to abide by the goals shared within the UPF.
The SoO terms and conditions in Manipur, has no validity in other States.
Therefore, the HPC (D) Manipur Region is not answerable for the HPC (D) of other regions/States as the HPC (D) Manipur Region is particularly confined in Manipur under UPF,” L Sanga Hmar had also stated.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/talks-with-hpc-d/

Dwijamani to be honoured in US

Imphal Apr 16 UNA : A journalist from Manipur would be honoured by United States based Newseum, Washington DC after his death, acknowledging his contribution in the field of journalism.
Thangjam Dwijamani, a journalist of a private TV network and a stringer of Doordarshan Kendra Imphal was killed in police firing on protesters at Thangmeiband in Imphal where he was covering a violent protest during an indefinite bandh in Manipur against the alleged assault and molestation of a Manipuri female film actor by a top leader of NSCN(IM) on December 24 last year.
The organization has invited family members of the deceased journalist to join a ceremony to be organised by the organisation based at 555 Pennsylvania Ave NW Washington, DC 20001, United States on May 3 next at 10 am, informing that the journalist was among reporters and editors who would be honoured by the organisation.
The family receipt the invitation from the organization today, family source said. However, the family was yet to decide the joining of the ceremony.
The Newseum has been honouring those reporters and editors who died while reporting news in previous year.
The Newseum is an interactive museum of news and journalism and Its mission is “to help the public and the news media understand one another better” and to “raise public awareness of the important role of a free press in a democratic society”.
Dwijamani, a resident of Thangmeiband Sinam Leikai, Imphal West received bullet wounds on his chest when police opened fire to disperse bandh supporters who torched the vehicle of the officer-in-charge of Lamphel police station on December 24 , 2013.
The journalist later (on the same day) succumbed to his injuries at the Regional Institute of Medical Science and Hospital in Imphal. The journalist was survived by his wife and two children.A high power committee chaired by state principal secretary (home) was constituted to enquire into the incident leading to the death of the journalist.The committee had submitted its report. But no action was initiated as per the finding of the enquiry even though government promised for appropriate action as per recommendation of the committee so as to check repetition of such incident.The government also agreed to provideassistance to the family members of the deceased and drafting of a policy for the welfare of media persons by the state government beside a government job to the wife of the deceased scribe.However, all these assurance remains on paper only.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/dwijamani-to-be-honoured-in-us/

Court directives regarding hazards caused by cement factories

SHILLONG, April 16 NNN: The Gauhati High Court has asked the Meghalaya government to implement the strict directives issued by the Ministry of Environment & Forest pertaining to the violation of Forest Conservation Act, 1980 by cement companies at Jaintia Hills even as it directed that the report should be submitted within three months. The recent ruling of the High Court came following a writ petition filed by the Jaintia Hills based NGO – Jaintia Youth Federation (JYF) against eight cement plants in Jaintia hills for setting up their factories in forest land. Notably, the MoEF had in November last year, issued a number of strict directives to the state government with regards to the matter while referring to the report a joint inspection team of State Forest department and MoEF which in their report stated that “838 ha of land have been assessed as forest land while remaining 1140 ha of land already acquired or under process of acquisition by the said cement companies is yet to be ascertained whether it is forest land or not”. The government is asked to undertake a joint inspection of the remaining 1,140 acquired or under process of acquisition by the said cement companies to ascertain the status of forests, based on which issue a certificate in this regard, the order stated while asking to submit a copy of the joint inspection report to the Ministry within 3 months. JYF president Poipynhun Majaw said that the court has ordered the government to request the Forest Survey of India (FSI) Dehradun to furnish their opinion on the status of forest in 57.56 ha of land acquired by Meghalaya Cement Ltd (star cement) whole status could not be ascertained after joint inspection. “The order further directed the government to ensure that no non-forest activity is undertaken in the land, which after joint inspection has already been certified as “forest”, till approval of Central Government under the FC Act is obtained,” . Government has also been asked to prepare geo reference map and till such geo reference map is prepared, no new cement plant may be allowed to be set up. “The government is directed to take action in terms of the directives issued by MoEF, and file a report of the action taken,” it stated. The next hearing on the case is scheduled on May 3.

One injured in bomb blast

Imphal Apr 15 MNS UNA : MIlitants on Sunday launched an attack on the security force in Churachandpur district by exploding an improvised explosive device (IED) even as a minor boy sustained splinter injury when another IED planted on the roadside went off in Thoubal district.
The IED in Churachandpur district was reportedly exploded on th roadside at Hiangtam village near the international border with Myanmar under Singhat police station of Churachandpur district while
foot patrolling party of troops of 39 Assam Rifles was passing the area yesterday, around 9.30 am said a police source.
A report reaching here said a trooper sustained injury in the blast. . The report said that the trooper sustained critical injury in the blast and has been evacuated to a unit hospital of the Assam Rifles.
The minor boy was identified as one Md. Nasirudin shah (12) son of Karim Mudin shah.
In the explosion two houses were partially damage by the impact. Another IED planted just 20 feet away from the blast site was defused by the bomb expert around 8am added police source.
A rebel was arrested with eight hand grenades, a police source said Sunday.
In one such mopping operation conducted at Kwakeithel area on April 13 night, an activist of PREPAK (Pro) identified as Gurumayum Ibomcha Sharma was arrested from his house with eight hand grenades. Kwakeithel is located on the southern side of the airport road which the President was to travel The hand grenades were detected in a raid to his house after he was arrested, the police said

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/one-injured-in-bomb-blast/

President attends Diamond Jubilee of Adimjati Shiksha Ashram

Mail News Service
Imphal, April 15 : President Pranab Kumar Mukherjee arrived here today arond 4.30 pm to attend the Diamond Jubilee of Adimjati Shiksha Ashram , Chingmeirong amid strike called by insurgents. Governor Gurbhachan Jagat, Chief Minister, O Ibobi received him at the airport. There was slight rainfall when the President arrived. He then inaugurated Amity Hall and SC/ST Girls Hostel and laid the foundation of Working Women’s Hostel and Tribal Boys’ Hostel.
The President will leave tomorrow morning for Sikkim to inaugurate the Siddeshwara Dham, Solophok, Namchi and dedicate it to the nation . He will also lay the foundation stone of the Sikkim University at Yangang, South Sikkim.
The President will return New Delhi in the afternoon of April 17, 2013.

The diamond jubilee of the Adim Jati Sikhsha Ashram at Chingmeirong in Imphal was on Monday celebrated with President of India Dr Pranab Mukherjee gracing the event as chief guest.
Dr Mukherjee unveiled the jubilee monument and inaugurated an amity hall and a hostel for Scheduled Tribe/ Scheduled Caste girls during the function.
The President also laid the foundation stones for tribal working Women’s hostel and tribal boys’ hostel.
Governor Gurbachan Jagat Singh, Chief Minister O Ibobi Singh and Deputy Chief Minister Gaikhangam attended the function as president and guests of honour respectively. Member of Rajya Sabha, Rishang Keising also took part it by sharing the dais.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr Mukherjee highlighted the need for empowerment of the people and added that the people should involve and contribute to the schemes and policies being taken up by the Government.
He said, “Therefore, let us try together to take part in the development process by involving in the welfare schemes like MGNREGS, Right to Education, Right to Information Act and Right to Food.
Dr Mukherjee added that it is quite relevant that a state like Manipur, which is rich in culture and courageous, was chosen to set up the sikhshha ashram 60 years back.
The ashram provides vocational training to the tribal students from to time, apart from education, the President said and wished that the ashram creates more good students and citizens in future.
Chief Minister Ibobi also spoke at the occasion. Recalling the history of establishment of the Adim Jati Ashram, he said scholar and social worker, Deshbhandu Adhikari, a native of Uttar Pradesh had made great contribution in setting up of the ashram which started functioning on March 3, 1952.
Dr Rajendra Prasad, the first President of India laid the foundation stone of the ashram, he said.
Top officials of different Government departments, Cabinet ministers, Secretary Donor, DGP, Manipur assembly Speaker, Parliamentary Secretaries and MLAs were also present at the event.

DRDO: Leading The Way in Taking Defence Strength to New Heights

Nungsunglemba Ao, Director (PR), DPR, Ministry of Defence.
DRDO… India’s premier Defence Research and Development organisation…. an organisation on the cutting edge of defence technology with a mission to design and develop state-of-the-art defence systems and technologies and to provide technological solution to India’s Defence Services. The technology spectrum under the DRDO banner is wide-ranging and versatile.
Enhanced focus on self-reliance during recent years has led DRDO to enter a new phase of delivery of state of the art systems and critical technologies to the Services, taking the self-reliance index from 30% to over 55%.
DRDO’s prowess in strategic systems led the way with a series of milestones achieved and touched new heights with the spectacular maiden launch of India’s long range strategic missile Agni 5. Agni 3 joined Agni 1, Agni 2 & ‘Prithvi two’ to further strengthen India’s strategic might, while Agni 4 and Agni 5 are being readied for the Armed Forces’ arsenal. Over 70 launches of major missile systems went on to demonstrate DRDO’s strength in this crucial sector.
Production clearance of Bo5 underwater system after a series of successful trials incorporating many novel technologies, proving the reliability of the system, was another breakthrough.
INS Arihant, India’s first indigenous nuclear powered submarine is gearing up for seaward trials.
The long range cruise missile, Nirbhay had its maiden flight proving the required critical technologies.
In the direction of establishing a credible two layer Ballistic Missile Defence system; a series of successful interceptions, mostly, with direct hit, demonstrated its reliability.
In the arena of tactical systems – productionisation and induction of Akash, the medium range air defence system with multi-target, multi directional capability is another shining achievement.
Brahmos, the best supersonic cruise missile in operation, designed to be launched from land, air, sea and sub-sea platforms, with its high speed and precision of attack, became the preferred weapon. Its block II version with target discrimination capability and block III version with steep diving capability even at supersonic speeds were developed making it a deadly weapon.
Prahar, a novel, highly manoeuvrable precision strike, Surface-to- Surface tactical missile capable of being fired in salvo mode is all set to extend the reach of our artillery fire to over 150 Km, filling the gap between PINAKA rockets and Prithvi Missile.
Integration of mission systems with the much needed AEW&CS platform fitted with indigenous Active Electronically Scanned Array radar antenna was yet another significant achievement of DRDO. The systems are undergoing comprehensive flight tests.
Avionics upgrades of MiG 27, Jaguar and Sukhoi-30 aircrafts was indigenously accomplished, significantly enhancing their combat capabilities.
India’s first indigenously designed & developed aircraft engine Kaveri is undergoing Certification Tests after series of successful flight trials. Successful development of indigenous Wankel rotary engine for UAVs and its flight demonstration to power “UAV Nishant” was another significant achievement.
Two regiments of Main Battle Tank Arjun became proud possession of Indian Army. Arjun Mark-II, developed in a record time, with about 70 improved features, has entered advanced phase of User Trials.
A number of Battlefield support systems including Armoured Amphibious Dozer, Armoured Engineering Recce Vehicle and Tracked Armoured Ambulance were developed and led to production.
Pinaka rocket launcher entered the operational command of the Indian Army, giving a boost to their fire power. Pinaka II, with longer range is undergoing trials. Thermo-baric ammunition capable of delivering a devastating, simultaneous fragmentation, Thermal and blast effect has been developed for MBT Arjun to further boost its firepower.
A new Modular Bridging System capable of yielding single span of up to 46 mtrs and capable of bearing load up to 70 ton was developed and is undergoing user trials.
In the area of naval sensors, very high degree of self-reliance has been achieved with design development, and induction of sonars meeting needs of Indian Navy. Thus USHUS an Advanced Active-cum-Passive integrated sonar system, NAGAN, an active cum passive towed array sonar & HUMSA NG, a new generation hull mounted sonar for ships; were integrated with their respective platforms.
Among the weapon systems, VARUNASTRA, a heavy weight torpedo, underwent extensive sea trials on its way to induction.
Radars and electronic warfare systems has emerged as yet another strong area. DRDO’s technological strength in this highly security sensitive and critical area is exemplified by the development, productionisation and acceptance of WLR, an advanced electronically scanned pulse Doppler weapon locating radar; 3D TCR, a 3 dimensional tactical control radar; Bharani, a Low Level Lightweight Radar and ASLESHA, a 3D Low Level Lightweight Radar.
Completion and acceptance of Varuna, a modern ESM system for Navy with capability to intercept and process all modern radars including LPI radars was another step in achieving self-reliance in the field of Electronic Warfare.
A series of secure communication systems based on Software Defined Radio, ranging from hand held sets, to aircraft and ship based systems have been developed. The compact system is capable of operating on multiple frequency bands, avoiding need for multiple systems.
Acceptance of light weight integrated Multifunction Sight, for surveillance and speedy engagement of targets and an electro-optical fire control system EON-51 for Navy was yet another achievement.
An advanced Holographic Sight facilitating accurate aiming with both eyes open, developed for INSAS rifle was accepted by Army. Design and fabrication of System on Chip (SoC) for mission computers and its integration with On-Board Computers for major missile systems and aeronautical platforms, was another significant milestone.
DRDO has always played a pioneering role in the development of special materials for defence requirements. Recent achievements include productionisation of light armour for Mi 17 helicopter and more than 30,000 tons of DMR steel for Indian Navy. The setting up of Titanium sponge production facility at KMML is a boost for the country’s aeronautical, missile and space programs.
Alive to the needs of emerging war scenarios DRDO has taken up development of Unmanned War Machines as a major thrust area and has made significant achievements, including the delivery of state-of-the-art Remotely Operated Vehicle Daksh, an invaluable asset for bomb disposal, series of successful flights of long endurance UAV Rustom -1 in its final configuration and demonstration of an advanced Autonomous Underwater Vehicle. Series of mini and micro UAVs have been developed.
Bulk production orders were received for Submarine Escape Suite for Navy, Combat Free Fall System for Paratroopers and Lightweight Helicopter Oxygen System for Indian Air Force. On-board Oxygen Generation System (OBOGS) has been developed.
Development of Solar Powered Modular Green Shelters was another significant achievement in supporting our soldiers.
Series production of Computerised Pilot Selection System (CPSS) for comprehensive evaluation of candidates was commenced and systems were handed over to users.
The NBC Recce Vehicle designed for ‘surveillance and on-site collection & analysis of samples from contaminated environment’, was handed over to the users.
As spin-offs for civil sector and social cause, Bio-digesters developed for environment friendly disposal of human excreta in extreme cold regions of high altitudes were adapted for Railway coaches and Lakshadweep islands. The technology has been selected to equip over two lakh Gram Panchayats with bio-toilets.
The sonar technologies developed for detection of ships and underwater threats were innovatively employed to develop Sanjeevini, a life detector to locate victims trapped under debris or a bore-well and ‘Tarangini’, a portable device to measure depth and bottom hardness in water bodies.
All these endeavours have a single-minded focus: to transform India into a world-class centre for design development and production of defence systems and technologies, ensuring freedom from denial regimes and external controls.
DRDO is leading the way in taking India’s defence strength to new heights in making: One of 4 countries with multi level strategic deterrence capability; One of 5 countries with own BMD Program; One of 6 countries with own Main Battle Tank; One of 7 countries with own 4th Gen Combat Aircraft.
(PIB Features.)

Manipur must get special status

President of India Pranab Kumar Mukherjee will be coming to Manipur on a two day visit to the state. The state has a lot to expect from his visit. Unlike his predecessors he maintains wonderful relation with the UPA Government at the centre. He makes announcement and the Government shows readiness to translate all his assurances into action. Will he announce lifting of controversial armed forces special powers act from Manipur? Irom Chanu Sharmila is demanding repealing of the act? His visit is connected with the golden jubilee celebration of Adim Jati Shiksha Ashram. The other states in NE region Meghalaya and Mizoram are out to grab every single opportunity and these two states are attempting to drag all the developmental programmes framed for NE region to their states. Manipur cannot waste the visit by the head of the country to the state and it is time the state Government decides what it should demand from the president of the country. We are lagging far behind in telecommunication. Land has been occupied for up gradation of Imphal airport. The union Government cannot delay up gradation of the Imphal airport to the international level. The other day when the union Civil Aviation Minister was asked to declare the date for declaration of Imphal airport as the international airport, he rebuked the scribe, who quizzed him saying where do you want to go? Meghalaya has IIM, Mizorma is also going to get one. Manipur can demand one IIM. The President will hear it, there is no doubt about it. Contribution made by Manipur in the field of sports is enormous. More need to be done for promotion of sports in Manipur. Number one problem facing the state is inability to create jobs for the educated unemployed youths. Fund starved Manipur Government cannot do anything to make the unemployed sections happy. Either we demand private investors to come to the state and start business keeping the unemployed sections in view or the Government creates enough funds to give to the educated youths to start the business of their own. That however will be easier said than done. Our unskilled entrepreneurs will find it handicapped to compete with the giant sized production companies. Solution to unemployment problem lies in starting too many public sector companies in the state. Pranab Kumar Mukherjee when he visits Manipur surely he will be seeing some of the massive constructions that have come up at Chingmeirong side. On seeing these massive constructions he will think Manipur is moving ahead of other states. Yet more need to be done. We do not have income of our own unless it comes from the centre. This must be understood by all the dignitaries visiting Manipur. We are confident President of india after seeing Manipur will advise the Union Government to pay special attention to enable it to survive on their own in the same manner Union Government is considering to give special status to Bihar. Manipur is the most troubled state in the entire NE region. Let him feel it.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/manipur-must-get-special-status/

Preparations in full swing for President’s visit

Imphal, April 13 MNS UNA : Every possible step has been taken up by Home department by deploying maximum security personnel with tighten security personnel in the entire greater Imphal areas ahead of the proposed visit by the President of India, Pranab Mukrejee to the state capital on 15 April.
The general strike called by the state militants outfits’ is not the first time, and it does not make any different as general strike is called in when ever every Indian VVIPs visit Manipur, its is a frequent experience by home department said Dy. Chief Minister, Gaikhangam, who is holding the Home portfolio.
While speaking to media person at his office chamber at MPCC the Dy. Chief Minister said that as part of security measures taken up by the state police, cordon and search operations are being conducted at various area of the state capital.
In the meantime, security rehearsal regarding the proposed visit of the President of India was held today at Imphal Tulihal Airport to give a guard of honour and full deployment of maximum strength of the state security forces have been made along the Tiddim road from Airport to Adimjati complex, Imphal.
The president will be here in Imphal on 15 April for a one day visit, which would be the first ever visit to Manipur after he assumed presidential office to be the chief guest of diamond jubilee celebrations of Adimjati Shiksha Ashram, located at Chingmeirong, in Imphal West district. In the year 1953, the first President of India Dr. Rajendra Prasad laid the foundation stone of this Ashram. Mention may be mentioned here that the Coordination Committee of KCP, KYKL, PREPAK, PREPAK (Pro), RPF and UNLF has boycott the forthcoming visit of India’s President in Manipur and subsequently announced a 24 hour general strike during his visit.
On the other hand a hectic preparation is also seen in different part of Imphal area like renovation of roads and construction of wooden barricade along the stretch of Imphal Airport to Adimjati complex.Ahead of visit of president of India, Manipur police commandos Imphal West conducted search operation Takhellambam Leikai, Khwairakpam Leikai and Konjeng Hajari Leikai, Imphal west today. Some suspects were rounded up for further verification.Imphal east police commandos also conducted operation at Khurai area. 11 suspects including a woman were rounded up. The district police also conducted operation at Andro Parking.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/preparations-in-full-swing-for-presidents-visit/

Do not to force Hindi at DU : MPP

Mail News Service
Imphal, April 13 : The decision of the Delhi University to enforce Hindi/MIL in the under-graduate courses in all the colleges/institution under it, is in all fairness, a nonsensical decision said President MPP, N Sovakiran in a letter to the PM today.
He said Who needs to be reminded that in a democracy education needs no politics, unlike in totalitarian countries. More so, in a country like India where liberal education system can only
cope with the challenges of the country’s diverse linguistic, ethnic and demographic composition; the decision of the Delhi University is all the more an antithesis against the ethos
of this country he added.
The Delhi University must understand that it is not a local or regional university that caters only the local students, but students from across the country including the Northeast.
They go to it to imbibe a national outlook; the hope to compete for top positions in the education system that are available there. It is a university with a history associated with the nation building process of modern India.
However, the vernacular-like jealots or undemocratic attitude of the authorities of the Delhi University would only hamper the educational atmosphere of the University that has been serving the students from across the country.
The policy to enforce Hindi/MIL to the undergraduate students would only do deservice to the students community of the country and the nation in general.
Therefore, Manipur People’s Party in the interests of the students of the Northeast in particular and the nation in general urged PM intervene in the matter and prevail upon the Delhi University authorities and cause to revoke the decision which is nothing but undemocratic and Talibanic in nature.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/do-not-to-force-hindi-at-du-mpp/

Cheiraoba to be celebrated today

Mail News Service
Imphal, April 13 : Cheiraoba will be celebrated tomorrow followed by Shilenba ( New Year ) the next day. Market areas were buzz with activities as people did last minute marketing. Prices of vegetables, fruits had sky rocketed. People purchased gifts and vegetables for the festival. Gurbachan Jagat, Governor today greeted all on the eve of Cheiraoba. He said “It is with great pleasure that I offer my greetings to the people of Manipur on the happy and auspicious occasion of “Cheiraoba”.
For the Hindu Meiteis Cheiraoba symbolizes the advent of a new year and is a festival celebrated by every household with great enthusiasm. It is a festival where the old changes
into new and with the advent of spring it rekindles new avenues erf life for a better future. On this propitious day let us all rededicate to work towards the goal of bringing peace, prosperity and progress in the State and every household. Let the New Year dispel the dark forces and bring in light to the State.”
Chief Minister, O Ibobi said, “Cheiraoba, one of the major festivals of Manipur, marks the parting of the old year and the onset of the New Year. On this auspicious day, the youngsters seek the blessings of the elders for a happy long life. With me advent of another New Year, let us strive to work for unity and peaceful co-existence amongst all sections of the society in the state.
The dy. CM president of MPCC Shri Gaikhangam greeted the people on the occasion of Cheiraoba (Charak Puja) which falls on April 14.
He wished a prosperous and peaceful state with the advent of the new year.
The Shiva Sena Manipur also greeted people on the occasion of Cheiraoba.
Meanwhile distinguished Manipuri women representing all communities led by Padmashree Kshetrimayum (Ongbi) Thouranishabi Devi, former principal of Jawahar Lal Nehru Manipur Dance Academy (JNMDA) met Maj Gen UK Gurung, IG AR (S) at Mantripukhri Garrison on the eve of Cheiraoba

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/cheiraoba-to-be-celebrated-today-3/

Martyrs day observed

Mail News Service UNA
Imphal, April 13 : Martyrs day was observed at Cheiraoching with people offered tributes at the statues of freedom fighters. Only relatives of PLA cadres killed were allowed to enter the premises.
The RPF/ PLA extended gratitude to all those who made the occasion a success. It expressed regret over the intervention by Manipur Police around 1:30 pm disallowing students in uniform to offer tributes.
Since morning hundreds of people including those of martyr’s families in droves turned up and paid homage to the martyrs of the underground RPF/PLA at the memorials located at Cheiraoching, Imphal despite the heavy presence of police and security forces.
Families and relatives of deceased leaders and well-wishers of the Revolutionary People’s Front (RPF) and its armed wing People Liberation Army (PLA) confronted all odd to reach the top of the Cheiraoching where a memorial site of the departed leader is erected and offered floral tributes.
While on previous occasions security personnel restricted obeisance at the said sites, a court ruling allowed family members and relatives of the departed leaders paying their tributes without any restrictions this year.
Families Committee for Observation of April 13 expressed its gratitude to the people of the state particularly Civil organizations, students etc. for taking part in the floral paying ceremony at Cheiraoching Martyrs’ Memorial complex.
In a statement signed by its co-convenor, the committee also thank to all the transporters who had extended their help in transporting the people for taking part in the ceremony. It also thanks the water supply authority, the medical team and also the media persons for its co-operation with the floral paying ceremony.
The floral tribute was offered at the memorial site of nine PLA leaders who slain a gun battle at Kondompokpi in Imphal West district of April 1982. Family members and relatives of the departed leaders and well-wishers were allowed to pay tributes at the site under strict monitor by police.
At both sites, police allowed people to offer floral tributes from 5 am till 3 pm of the day.
Police prohibited the people carrying banners and placards while entering at the memorial site located at the top of the Cheiraoching hill like done every year apart from noting their names to a register by the police.
The court has also allowed the performance of the ceremony and paying floral offerings at the Cheiraoching memorial built in the name of those PLA cadres killed in an encounter with Army on the day in 1982 at Kodompokpi.
In the past years the Manipur government had been trying to thwart the tribute paying function by imposing restrictive acts such as under Section 144 CrPC, but since the past few years, the court has ruled that the function should be allowed provided the participants come as individuals in single files and not in a group.
Nine cadres of the group were killed in an encounter with Army troops at Kodompokpi on April 13, 1982, identified as Thoudam Kunjabihari, of Kakwa Nameirakpam Leikai, Thoudam Loken alias Amujao of Kakwa Nameirakpam Leikai, Paka of Heirok, Pakhanglakpa alias Puki of Keisampat, rk khoiromba alias Gyane of Moreh, Sorokhaibam Kameshwor alias Kanta of Heibongpokpi, Khundrakpam Chaobhan of Kwakeithel Moirangpurel, Naorem Rajen of Kakwa Naorem Leikai and Moirangthem Premkumar of Tera Sapam Leikai.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/martyrs-day-observed-3/

Driver kidnapped, car hijacked

Imphal Apr 13 UNA : Driver of a truck ferrying FCI goods from Imphal-Dimapur section of the NH-2 has been kidnapped even as whereabouts of a car hijacked on this section of the highway on April 9 last is yet to be recovered sad police source.
The driver of the truck bearing registration number MN0A-2697 identified as Ningthoujam Indrajit Singh (41), a resident of Laphupokpi Tera village of Imphal West district was kidnapped by some armed unknown persons suspected to be cadres of a militant group actively engaging in extortion activity on the NH-2.
The kidnappers came on a Bolero brand vehicle has taken the driver from a workshop at Mantripukhri, 15 km from Imphal towards Dimapur where his vehicle was repairing for a mechanical defect on April 10 last, around 12.30 pm.
Police suspect the driver has been kidnapped in connection with monetary demand from the owner of the truck.
The kidnapping of the truck driver was amidst the report of hijacking of a car (i10 brand car) by unidentified armed miscreants on April 9 last from T-Khullen area of Kangpokpi in Senapati district. The car was heading towards Imphal from Dimapur side.
The car bearing registration number MN01-W-5997 belong to one Thiyam Bira Singh of Thangmeiband, Imphal and the hijacking took place while the owner was coming back from Guwahati on that faithful day.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/driver-kidnapped-car-hijacked/

Direct cash payment system soon : CM

Chief Minister distributing certificates during a function of Directorate of Treasuries and Accounts on Saturday

IMPHAL, April 13 MNS NNN: Manipur Chief Minister O Ibobi Singh Saturday said the Finance and Treasury Departments are vital for proper management and maintenance of transaction business in a state like Manipur which is facing regular financial crunch and which has no enough resource of its own.
The Chief Minister was addressing the ‘Annual Gathering of officials’ of the state Finance & Treasury Department organised by the Treasury & Accounts at the Banquet Hall of 1st Manipur Rifles here.
He assured that all sorts of payment by the Government will be done through direct cash transfer system soon and the Government is seriously considering toward that end.
All payments in the Treasury are computerized now and hence it has maintained fairness, he said and expressed happiness on this precise system of payment.
“Now, Government employees, pensioners, old age pensioners are being endowed with direct cash transfer facility through their own accounts,” the Chief Minister said.
The deficit at the end of the fiscal year 2013 stood at less than Rs 100 crore as compared to previous year which was totalled at Rs 596 crore, Ibobi said.
He asserted that this was because the Government gave priority only on the necessities and also because it made use of money in a cautious and thrifty manner.
Principal Secretary, Finance, Barun Mitra and Commissioner, Art & Culture, Dr RK Nimai also took part at the function.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/direct-cash-payment-system-soon-cm/

Repeal AFSPA, UNM M to President

Mail News Service
Imphal, April 13 : United NGOs Mission – Manipur (UNM-M) narrated a detailed history of AFSPA to President Pranab Mukherjee in a memorandum today. U Nobokishore, Secretary of the UNM M also briefed about the decision of the Supreme Court on fake encounters.
It demanded repeal of AFSPA so that the true picture of democracy can be maintained.
Other demands were establish 20 Special Investigation Team (SIT) to investigate all the 1528 cases of Extra -Judicial Killings and rape under AFSPA/counter insurgency and take legal measures to ensure justice to the victim families by awarding appropriate punishment to the perpetrators within a period of one year.
Stop systematical violence and discrimination against the women and children in terms of raped, killed and trafficking and punish all the culprits without any delay. Armed Forces deployed in Manipur should not be allowed to depute for UN Peace Keeping Force to any foreign country.
The vehicles without registration number being used by the paramilitary and Indian -Army should be registered and allotted numbers and punish them who violate law immediately.
Set up a commission to investigate how the illegal arms got into the hands of individuals or gangs and punish those who are violating the law of the land.
Hold political dialogue with armed political organizations by constituting Independent Commission for Conflict Resolution in Manipur and also develop a framework on pre-negotiation, negotiation and post negotiation with special monitoring mechanism with due representation of civil society and NGOs and also by engaging International
Community as a Third Party to the negotiation to settle the long standing political conflict.
Hold discussion and debate on the proposed India – EU FT A in the Parliaments and State Assemblies without which we strongly object signing on the proposed text of the current trade negotiation.
Prohibit the implementation of REDD, REDD+ and CDM project in the northeast under ‘Climate Change Negotiation.
Illegal Drug Trade: Strictly punish any actors/party operating in Manipur who are committing crimes such as carrying drugs, raising illegal taxes, extortions, kidnapping, carrying arms without a licence and human trafficking according to the International Humanitarian Law and constitutional acts. The precondition would be a strong state police and completely independent and corruption-free judiciary.
Political settlement of Manipur State with its own police and self-determination for political, economic, social and cultural Rights and withdrawal of all central governmental armed forces except those of the border control and protection. Access to International financial Support for Self-Determination and control over the naturalwealth of Manipur and over the gains from investment in exploiting it, would have to be fixed in the state constitution, together with mechanisms of monitoring the implementation of it. Detainment of Illegal drug and arms smuggling routes and the cartel leaders.
If the drug addiction in the society of Manipur is only tackled from the demand side, it may reach an extent which weakens the whole society to the brink of apathy. Drug addiction and HIV among the youth may have an effect close to ethnic cleansing, so that the armed forces of India can subdue Manipur fully during the coming decades. This would imply the de-facto abolishment of democracy and replacement by a military dictatorship.
Stop construction of mini or micro Dams, stop exploration of Oil and Natural Gas as well Mineral in the State without Free, Prior and informant Consent from Indigenous Peoples of Manipur. We are also your good office to kindly intervene to bring out a white paper on the natural resources exploration in the stafe.
Revive Manipur Human Rights Commission (MHRC) and constitute a committee to examine the functioning of the commission in Manipur at the earliest, which is non-functioning since 9 May, 2010 after the entire member retired. This commission as mandated used to serve and deliver justice to the common people in Manipur.
Constitute a policy particularly, victims of women and children on Armed Conflict for their livelihood, education and health and to compensate the victims with dignity. As we can see the petition filed by the Extra Judicial Execution Victim Families, Manipur indicated 1528 extra judicial executions. Unfortunately, most of them (killed) were young and mostly married. So the result us the increasing number of widows and orphans.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/repeal-afspa-unm-m-to-president/

KSO appeals to RPF

IMPHAL, April 13 NNN: The Kuki Students Organization, General Headquarters (KSO GHQ) has fervently appealed the Revolutionary Peoples’ Front/Peoples’ Liberation Army (RPF/PLA) to safely release an ‘under-age school girl’, Alice Kamei of Grace Reach Academy from the outfit’s custody at the earliest possible time.
Mentionably, RPF/PLA says Alice Kamei is 16 years old and had joined the outfit on her own volition while the Zeliangrong organisations rejected the former’s version and accused the militant outfit of kidnapping the school girl to force her to join the group. The Zeliangrong organisations also said that Alice Kamei is only 14 years old.
On Sarturday, the KSO-GHQ said, “Whatsoever the reason may be of the girl being in the RPF custody is not justifiable, as she is a minor who still depends on her parent in every walk of life especially in deciding her future career in life. Even if she had joined the RPF/PLA on her own volition as claimed by the militant outfit, we appeal not to take advantage of the little girl’s ignorance. Instead, use their wisdom and show their generosity of being one of the oldest and signatory groups in Geneva Convention on August 6, 1997 who pledged to abide and uphold the international law which prohibits child soldier”.
The KSO also condemned the lackadaisical attitude and inaction of the state government in bringing back the minor school girl which has been missing since March 10. “If such episode had happened to someone from a high profile family, a celebrity or the major community of the state, things would have gone otherwise as to what we have witnessed last Christmas. Therefore, it will be the best for everyone if the state took serious initiative before things are blown out of proportion,” the apex Kuki students’ body said.
“To show solidarity to our fellow student Alice Kamei, KSO pledged to support the total bandh along the National Highway 2 and NH-37 starting from April 21 and also support all forms of democratic protest and activities initiated by All Zeliangrong Students Union (AZSU), Zeliangrong Youth Front (ZYF) and Zeliangrong Students Union, Manipur (ZSUM) in restoring a normal life of the little girl,” KSO-GHQ vice president Mangcha Baite stated.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/kso-appeals-to-rpf/

A debate on formation of Government

A debate is going on in every part of the country whether Congress led Government will continue in power or NDA will return to power. While Rahul Gandhi is refusing to accept his projection as the Prime Ministerial candidate, Narendra Modi without getting sanction from the NDA allies has started to speak like the Prime Ministerial candidate. JD (U) is an important partner of the BJP in the formation of NDA. The leaders of the party have vehemently opposed projection of Narendra Modi as NDA’ s prime ministerial candidate. Even before the start of Lok Sabha election NDA is going to collapse. That is imminent. Secularism has become the main issue of the Lok Sabha election. That is indicated by the fact that every single party is talking of providing security to the minority community. 30 percent of the Indian population belongs to minority community. Minority communities have strongly opposed the ideologies and policies of the BJP, which are shaped by the communal forces like Bajrang Dal and RSS. BJP cannot shed Hindutva philosophies. Narendra Modi brand style of politics might be doing well in Guajarat. The people in that state might also desire to see their leader to occupy the mantle of power at the centre. But Narendra Modi’s action and speeches are reprehensible to others living in other states. Gujarat model will flop at the national level. In a vast democratic country like India one leader’s idea be it in framing policies and implementation will go awry. Gujarat is a small state compared with UP and Bihar. Why BJP cannot form Government on their own in these two states. Similarly BJP will not shine in Tamilnadu, Maharastra Kerela, Kashmir. Even in Karnataka the party image is dwindling due to intra fighting among the leaders. Then there is NE region, where BJP will maintain its inert position. In spite of all these things Narendra is hoping against hope to move to the centre wearing top executive hat. Election is a serious fight. Bluff does not sell anything in election. People are weighing seriously the merits and demerits of keeping a non Congress Government at the centre. Earlier experiment of installing non Congress Government flopped. There were internal bickering and leaders went different directions. There was lack of cohesion. The image of the country nosedived. Foreign investors will not come when there is unstable Government. India in the past survived by mortgaging gold. That situation has changed now. India is now on the threshold of becoming a super power. Whose creation is it? Two options are available now one is even and uneven. Where do you want to go? Act wisely and sensibly and close eyes and ears to all those mad rumblings and take a decision on your own. Then decide whom you should support. Congress is time tested party. It had proved it can ensure a stable and powerful Government at the centre. Whether Rahul Gandhi is prime ministerial candidate or not is immaterial.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/a-debate-on-formation-of-government/

Manipur overall champion of 27th NE games

Imphal Apr 12 MNS UNA: The 27th North East Games 2013 concluded yesterday at at Khuman Lampak with Manipur emerging as Champion for the 22nd times.
Gurbachand Jagat, Governor of Manipur who graced the closing ceremony as chief guest drawing the attention of Sports Authority of India, NSNIS, Patiala who are sponsoring the event annually that there is a need for re-look on the number and category of disciplines, the number and composition of the various teams, the numbers of technical officials for conduct, etc so that the games is held not only for fraternization of the people of the various States of the north east but also the competition is carried out in the true spirit of the rules and regulations binding them.
He also felt that after 27 years, there is a need to revamp the format so that the games is made more attractive and competitive, incorporating those games which are suitable to the people of the region besides drawing other sponsors and publicity added the Governor.
So there is also a need for clean sports and hence, NADA must be made active to conduct dope testing. Only when there is a competition in the true spirit of the games will there be growth for the sportsperson and they can become elite sportsperson not only representing the nation but winning medals in international competitions said Gurbachand.
The games which started under the name North East Sports Festival in 1986-87 have been renamed to North East Games in 2008 taking into consideration the growing importance of this event added the chief guest.
The north east is slowly inching up in the field of sports and it is glad to say with Manipur leading in the region. Out of 83 competitors in 13 disciplines from India in the London Olympics, 9 are from the north east in 4 disciplines.
Today Manipur took the overall champion with 76 point in their account and Assam and Mizoram stood in 2nd position with 44 points each, and in the mass passing out Mizoram took first position which was followed by Manipur.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/manipur-overall-champion-of-27th-ne-games/