kanglaonline – Page 550

Newspaper distributors` role highlighted during AMNSDA`s 30th foundation day

IMPHAL, December 26: The All Manipur Newspapers Sales`™ & Distributors`™ Association, AMNSDA observed its 30th foundation day at the Community Hall of Youth Welfare Club, Kakwa Ningomthong Sairom Leirak today.

Delivering the chief guest speech during the observation, Thongam Biswajit Singh, MLA of Thongju said that newspapers distributors have equal responsibility like any other profession in shaping a society.

It is impossible for a society to move forward without collective effort from all sections of the people, he said.

Biswajit pointed out that Manipur cannot remain unaffected by the rapid change the world is going through. Unity and discipline are very much needed in the present Manipuri society, he said. He lamented that sense of discipline among the people has been degenerating day by day, which is evident even within a family.

Taking note of the immediate grievances put forwarded by one of the representatives of the association earlier during the function, the MLA assured that he will personally look into the matter. He exuded confidence that members of the association can avail the PDS items by approaching the authority concerned.

Konsam Ibotomba Singh, president of AMNSDA stressed that newspaper firms and newspaper distributors are like the two faces of a same coin. `The growth of a firm depends on the hawkers, and the same is true for the hawkers`, he said. He asserted that one should work with dignity. `We should be aware that we are not working just to earn money; no doubt that earning is important. But we must also remember that our job is entrusted with big social responsibility`, he said.

Senior members of the association who have worked for a long time were honoured during the function, along with two women members namely Sharmilla and Somolata. Gifts were offered to representatives of newspaper houses as token of love by AMNSDA.

The observation was also attended by Ng Kishan, Bashikhong Zilla Parishad, Y Thoibi, Thongju part -I, GP Pradhan, N Chingkhei, Thongju part `“ II, GP Pradhan and L Sunil, Torban Kshetri Leikai, GP Pradhan along with several invitees.

Skulls, skeletons found while digging Tombisana High School campus

IMPHAL, December 26: Workers at the compound of the erstwhile Tombisana High School were left dumbfounded yesterday evening as they recovered human skulls, skeletons and other objects while digging earth

The seven skulls and some skeletons were recovered around 2:30 pm yesterday while another skull was recovered this morning from Mantripukhri where the excavated earth from the site were dumped.

The school compound is located opposite to the Assembly Secretariat (Old Assemly Campus) just behind the Imphal Municipal Council compound and is about 100 metre far from the City Police Station.

According to a caretaker of the work implementing agency M/S Simplex Project ltd, the fourth Ima Keithel will also have similar designs as the previous three Ima Keithels.

The only difference would be the inclusion of a car parking in the ground floor of the fourth keithel, he said.

Excavation work had started since December 13, after the State PWD handed over the work to the company, he said.

He said a JCB was initially used for the excavation work, however, on December 17, the company started using a poclain machinery in order to expedite the process.

He said the earth excavated from the site were transported in trucks to the under construction New Secretariat Building at Mantripukhri. The company is also involved in the construction of the New Secretariat building.

Labourers of the company found a human skull and some skeletons while leveling the earth at the Mantripukhri site. Six more skulls were recovered from the erstwhile school campus. Another skull and some skeletons were also found this morning from the excavated earth at the Mantripukhri site, he continued.

It is also learnt that the skulls and skeletons were recovered from the earth excavated on December 24.

Meanwhile, the locations from where the skulls were recovered had been marked by erecting sticks.

Soon after getting information, addl SP (ops) Imphal West district had inspected the Mantripukhri site yesterday.

A team of the Imphal East police led by an SDPO also visited the site.

The police said they were informed about the recovery by the State Works minister who was informed by the company.

Meanwhile, the Heingang Police registered a case in this regard and deposited the recovered skulls and skeletons this afternoon around 2:45 at the JNIMS Morgue for the conduct of forensic tests.

It may be mentioned that the compound of the school was used to camp central para-military force including CRPF and the later by State Police Commandos.

Meanwhile, scholars of Anthropology department, Manipur University had inspected the skulls and skeletons recovered, but there is still no official confirmation or identification of sexes and age of the skulls and skeletons.

Meanwhile veteran politician O Joy said although the exact dates cannot be ascertained it is believed that there was a mortuary where the Mass Hotel stands now.

He said there are also stories of a powerful minister of a king living where the Speaker`™s residence stands now.

MPP chief charges govt of neglecting Manisana killing case

IMPHAL, December 26: The State government has already announced Rs 5 lakhs each for the victims of recent bomb blasts in the State capital, but continues to remain silent on

IMPHAL, December 26: The State government has already announced Rs 5 lakhs each for the victims of recent bomb blasts in the State capital, but continues to remain silent on the killing of Manipur Peoples`™ Party vice president (L) Manisana, observed MPP president Nongmeikapam Sovakiran today.

He was speaking at the party`™s 47th foundation day celebration held today at its office.

He said (L) Manisana was shot dead on November 13 last year following which a JAC was formed to pressure the State government.

The JAC had been demanding from both the Chief Minister and the deputy Chief Minister to provide compensation to the bereaved family of the leader, however, there has been no positive step taken up by the government, he asserted.

However, whenever a non-local or a migrant worker dies, the State government is ready to announce compensation he said questioning the government as to whether the lives of the non-locals are more valuable than the lives of the locals.

The MPP is suspicious of whether the government gets percentage cuts from such compensation money he said adding that although the number of victims killed in bomb blasts is quite high, neither the NIA nor the CBI are able to find the culprits till date.

This is because of negligence on the part of the government to take appropriate action, Sovakiran continued.

The deputy Chief Minister had earlier during an Assembly session had announced that Manisana`™s killers have been arrested and even mentioned the name of the involved group, however, the question is whether the government has taken appropriate actions in the case or not, he said.

The MPP president also continued that the party will go to the court seeking compensation to the family.

He said the MPP was founded this same day in 1968 and is one of the most influential regional parties in India.

Although there are several national parties present in Manipur none of them are working for the benefit of the State.

He said that the MPP was founded on this same day in 1968 and it is the 3rd most influential regional party in India. He also said that even though there are innumerable national parties in Manipur, none of them are working for the interests of Manipur.

Evaporating Trust

The bombings must stop, it is an act of terrorism. Those who are perpetrating such random acts of terror must realize that such activity will only distance the public from

The bombings must stop, it is an act of terrorism. Those who are perpetrating such random acts of terror must realize that such activity will only distance the public from them and whatever cause they may seem to uphold.

The state has seen its fair amount of woes and continues to do so, but after all the tired years of struggle, corruption, military domination and God knows what! The public has had enough. It is time that time brings its change and brings the society to a somewhat better era, an era of peace, of development and no more bombs.

The recent surrendering of a top brass of the PREPAK outfit is something which was hard to imagine some time back. A top member of the CorCom and someone who was at the helm of the revolutionary movement; and it was indeed surprising to hear him state at the so called homecoming ceremony held at 1st Manipur Rifles hall that he had lost his confidence in the struggle for independence, in the revolution. I wonder how some might have felt after hearing his testimony. So, if a hardcore top leader owns up publicly that he has lost faith in his own cause, then it is not hard to assume how we among the public perceive them and their cause. All this notwithstanding, the current spurt of bombings cannot be tolerated at any cost.

A terror bomb is not tolerable. It cannot be digested why there should be bomb explosions occurring at public places. It is an act becoming of the Taliban and other terrorist organizations and not in the motive of waging the war in the interest of the people. In fact, such random terrorizing actions are detrimental to the interest of the freedom movement.

Such acts warrants hate from the public and will obviously lead to blacklisting the seemingly `those`™ who are behind the attack. Moreover, it also maligns the image of those outfits that are truly waging the war for self-determination. The knee jerk effect of such condemnable episodes is clear as mentioned and it is high time that such matters need to be dealt with, with force or with diplomacy is up to those concerned.

Many bomb traps have evidently shown that it is an act of cowardice and inflict more harm to the public and the psyche of the citizen then to its intended target. Such act serves to estrange the society from the rebels. An example is of the grenade lobbed at the Iskon temple where the festivities were going on and resulted in the death of many innocent people and the demise of one of the foremost spiritual leader namely Damodar.

If the trend of random terrorism goes unchecked, then it is not only a loss of lives nor is it a loss for the society. It is but a gain only for those who seek to alienate people, communities, organizations and a scathing self inflicted defeat for those involved with the revolutionary movement.

It is time that those in power check such wanton terrorism and bring an end to it otherwise the feeble trust left might evaporate.

Leader Writer: Paojel Chaoba

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2014/12/evaporating-trust/

Administrative loophole debars patients of `Mantoux test` at RIMS

By Dnbir IMPHAL, December 26: Tuberculosis patients in the State are unable to undergo the Mantoux Test at the Regional Institute of Medical Sciences due to wrongful administration and conduct

By Dnbir

IMPHAL, December 26: Tuberculosis patients in the State are unable to undergo the Mantoux Test at the Regional Institute of Medical Sciences due to wrongful administration and conduct of the hospital authorities.

This comes as a surprise as high ranking authorities of the hospital during the 43rd foundation day celebration of the institute on September 14 had claimed several achievements of the hospital and that efforts are being made to upgrade the hospital to the stage of AIIMS.

Many patients who turned up at the Regional Institute of Medical Sciences, RIMS of Imphal, have to returned home disappointed with the hospital authorities failing to provide Mantoux Test for Tuberculosis disease today morning.

A large number of patients have turned up following the Christmas holiday on December 25 to avail Montoux test which is available on regular days at the institution. Long queue of patients were seen at the OPD counter. Some of them who have specifically booked their tickets to avail the said test were left high and dry.

It was learnt that BCG technician who was supposed to conduct the test is on a month-long leave. Talking to IFP, some of the patients disclosed that they were also told by the hospital staff that there is no other technician who can conduct the Montoux test.

Further, efforts were made to contact the higher authorities of the institute such as the Director and the Medical Superintendent by this reporter. But no contact could be established with them as it was learnt that they were busy in a meeting over a `mark tabulation`™ work.

However, after much effort IFP was able to talk with the Director of the institution, Prof Ch Arunkumar over the phone. After briefing him about the prevailing situation regarding the unavailability of Montoux test facility, the director passed on the phone to Prof M Amuba, who is the MS of RIMS.

According to Prof Amuba, no such case of was reported to him regarding the test. But Prof Amuba at the same time assured this reporter that he will take stock of the situation within five minutes.

It may be mentioned that no official statement regarding the incident has been made available by the RIMS authorities at the time of filing this report.

Growth of Manipuri Cinema- Horizontal

By Bobby Wahengbam A paragraph in an article by critic Meghachandra Kongbam (Manipuri Cinema: Chingolnungda asum? Poknapham, 22nd December, 2014) haunts me. He quoted a newspaper item under the heading,

By Bobby Wahengbam

A paragraph in an article by critic Meghachandra Kongbam (Manipuri Cinema: Chingolnungda asum? Poknapham, 22nd December, 2014) haunts me. He quoted a newspaper item under the heading, `Impressive presence of NE filmmakers at IFFI 2014`. It intentionally teased the proud film makers in Manipur with the paragraph, `It may be mentioned that this year`™s IFFI has two Manipuri film makers as Jury members but not a single film or documentary made in Manipur could hit the National Panorama this year`. This paragraph forces me to have introspection into our film industry. Meghachandra also reminds us that there have been only two films that could win National Awards in the last decade. Even exclusive (quota) `The Best Regional Manipuri Film` category could not been catered by any of the 60 plus odd films that have been churned out every year. It`™s a big shame. On the other hand, some sections in the industry are walking tall with their head high with the impression that the industry is gaining momentum counting the growth quantitatively. As a matter of fact Manipuri film industry has been spreading its wings far and wide in the state. But the unfavourable situation mentioned above easily indicates that the growth is indeed horizontal without any vertical development. And nobody seems to be interested in the quality growth with the fact that only two films made entry for the panorama this year. As a matter of fact we are cut off from the rest of the world because `we, ourselves are the world`™. And many advocate it.

Hard work, determination and knowledge are the important ingredients that are required to achieve a desired goal. And the amount of homework and time taken is also proportionally equal to the level of the goal. The quality inclines as the desired goal becomes wider. For example, if one wants to be famous in one`™s leikai, one can do it soon by starting leikai social work, club activities and other leikai centric work. If one wants to be a National or an International figure, the home work is to be done accordingly. Sarita should work hard to be stronger physically, technically, mentally than the present world champion if she desires to be at the top. And it takes time and planning where Luck is secondary. Unfortunately, the passion for our film fraternity is seen to be restricted to the local scenario. So, home work is restricted to just competition among ourselves. Basically, one enters to a profession by choice or by having no alternative. If most of us belong to the latter category, then, it is crowding who assembled to make their ends`™ meet directly or indirectly and also for instant recognition. Those better positioned enjoyed mass appeal (local market) and earn greater. We are moving around in this bracketed plane. It is written in almost all the art and aesthetic books that `No mass culture have ever been high art`™. Sure, our film industry could provide livelihood to many but it does not provide room for quality production that can challenge the counterparts outside the state. Amazing as it may be there are good numbers of film professionals who have not seen any of Pabung Syam`™s films; forget about world cinema, film theories and academic research. What they need is Television Serials, South Indian flicks, Bollywood Commercial, Korean Serials and Music Albums to tune with the taste of the spoon feeding audience.

Satyajit Ray has catogorised two type of audience- the spoon feeding audience and those audiences who understand the nuances of film senses. Christian Metz compares film viewing of the earlier type as somnambulism, hallucination, and day dreaming. Here, the impression of realty is related to illusion. Our film makers are too busy to work in that plane and can`™t afford the luxury to experiment in the highly saturated production industry here as only the loud and dreamy could be heard by the audience. Surjakanta, noted film maker opined (Souvenir 2010, 3rd Ebudhou Film Creation), `Film making has suddenly become easily available profession. But we are neglecting aesthetics and techniques. We don`™t see any change in the quality though we can exploit so much today with the available facilities. The trend remains the same with same stories of family drama, romance, triangular conflicts and that too with the same artists.`

Artistes of the previous generation were luckier as general masses could appreciate their works of art. But now it is doubtful that a high piece of art will ever get recognition in today`™s highly disposable and consumerist society with the bombardments of so much information into our limited space. There is no room for research or rediscovery or relook in the ultra `no time`™ scenario. Noted critic Chidananda Das Gupta writes, ` The fact is that as consumerism grows, success is measured in harder material terms, and the intellectual is increasingly under pressure to accept that criterion`¦ mediocrity becomes the norm, and deviations from it have to be disguised`( Seeing is Believing, Penguin/Viking Books, 2008, p.144).

And for the dream merchants, knowing the tools, after effects and gimmicking software are dearer than the quest for intellectual films. Nobody is interested in no-audience films since it is not their scheme of things. Because they are enjoying patronage from wannabe producers (60 films per year, remember). If they are enjoying in their own space, let them be. They are not to be blamed. They know it clearly that the more they turn towards artistic expression the more they are distancing from the audience. Successful mainstream (we call it) film makers like Bishwamitra, Romi Meitei, Subash, Oken, Makhon Mani, Gautam could not enjoy the space they used to occupy in the box office after they had ventured into conscious film making.

Another important hurdle is the limited microscopic market which can`™t afford to payback hard cash deserved by the professionals. This limitation has made each and every one a day earner. So, the mind is always occupied for the stomach unlike our forefathers. Manipur is rich in art and culture because our forefathers had ample of time for such activities. After acquiring enough food grains working for only half a season, their minds were, thereby, explored to other activities. But now, with life becoming more and more materialistic, we are struggling for our basic necessities. And artistes, being the most underpaid, become the lowest denomination in our capitalist structure. Can you imagine that the most successful director in Manipur can`™t even earn a Government clerk salary?

Another drawback we can talk about is that no support is available for art films to grow. There are talents, as seen in the documentary and short film making, but they can`™t help it for want of finance and support. All their possessions have already been exhausted in preparation and home work to equip themselves artistically at par with the outside counterpart. In the process, the rich artistic heritage of the state could not be tapped properly. There is urgent need to create an atmosphere conducive to the growth of good cinema.

But tamo Megha and the elitist public should not get dishearten; they will get some good news in two years. Till then!

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2014/12/growth-of-manipuri-cinema-horizontal/

`Proposed Sports University could be shifted to Assam if govt fails to identify site soon`

IMPHAL, December 26: The State government`™s failure to provide the required land for the construction of the National Sports University could result in the Centre shifting the university to another State like the Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports Sarwananda Sharma`™s native State Assam, a high level source informed.

The establishment of the Sports University in the State was announced by the present NDA government earlier this year much to the joy of the people, however, it has been put off after the State government faced objections from certain sections especially the locals over the site selection.

The Centre had instructed the State government that the selected site should not have any dispute.

The people`™s dream of having a National Sports University in the State could be denied in case the State government fails to identify the site which meets the term set by the Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, the source said.

The State government had already identified the site for the proposed university at Yaithibi Loukon in Thoubal district and had already submitted its proposal to construct the university at the selected site, but the proposal faced much objection from the locals.

The government had to drop the site as possible site for the university after the objection from the locals coupled with a recent directive from the High Court of Manipur against the use of the agricultural land for the construction of the university.

The Union Minister had earlier showed a keen desire to transfer the establishment of the proposed university from Manipur to his native Assam and there is a high possibility that it would be shifted to Assam if the State fails to identify the required site within the next few months, sources said.

Acknowledging the State`™s high caliber-performance in any sports, the NDA government led by Narendra Modi had already reflected Rs 100 crore in the Union budget for the construction of the university in the State.

It may also be noted that while the govrnment face objection at Yaithibi Loukon, people of Koutruk Sanjam Chirang and Moirang Lamkhai had welcomed the establishment of the university in their areas, although the government seems to neglect such invitations.

CAU faculty offered life-time achievement award for academic excellence

IMPHAL, December 24: Dr Sarbjit Singh Nagra, Director of Instruction, Central Agricultural University, Imphal has been conferred the Life Time Achievement Award `“ 2014, by the Indian Poultry Science Association

According to a release, the award has been given in recognition of his contributions in the field of Poultry Science Education. Born on February 3, 1952 in a remote village of Punjab, Dr Nagra did his B.Sc. Agriculture Honours in Animal Science in 1975, M.Sc. 1978 and Ph.D. 1982 from Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana.

It said he was recipients of Junior and Senior Research Fellowships of ICAR for M.Sc. and Ph.D. Programme. He began his service as a Research Fellow in 1982 in the Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana. Continuing his journey through different positions in PAU and Guru Angad Dev Veterinary & Animal Sciences Universities, Ludhiana, he became the Director of Instruction in Central Agricultural University, Imphal in 2013.

The statement continued that during his career, Dr Nagra made significant contributions in the field of Animal Husbandry, particularly to Poultry Nutrition, Housing and Management. He has more than 165 national and international Publications, one patent, authored two books and contributed chapters in another 5 books.

As Director of Instruction, Dr Nagra has brought several reforms to improve the academic activities of Central Agricultural University, Imphal (Manipur) and its constituent colleges. He introduced the programmes for holding sports and cultural competitions in the Central Agricultural University after his joining as Director of Instruction through Inter Collegiate Athletic Meet of the constituent colleges of CAU and ensured the participation of CAU students in the Inter-versity, Zonal and National Games and Cultural Events, the release added.

UNC condemns Khoyathong blast, flays Ibobi`s policy

IMPHAL, December 24: The United Naga Council (UNC) has strongly condemned the blast that killed three civilians at a tea stall at Khoyathong. A statement issued by its president Gaidon

IMPHAL, December 24: The United Naga Council (UNC) has strongly condemned the blast that killed three civilians at a tea stall at Khoyathong.

A statement issued by its president Gaidon Kamei, sharing the grief and pains of the families and dear ones of those who had lost their precious lives and also to all those who had been injured by the bomb, prayed that their souls rest in peace and also pray speedy recovery for the injured persons.

UNC condemned all forms of violence and those involved in planting and to explode bombs in public places, it said.

All right thinking person should raise their voices together so that such incidences are not repeated again. We appeal all group(s) and individual(s) to refrain from such inhuman acts in future, it continued.

In spite of deploying thousands of state security forces at the state capital Imphal, kidnapping, rape, murder and criminal activities are the routine of the day, it said.

`Right under O Ibobi`s nose, series of bomb blast had occurred but he cannot check and prevented them. There is no security in the valley. It has become the hotspot of chaos and disorder`.

Moreover, the UNC stating that the Nagas and tribals and innocent life of the mainland Indians are unsafe and insecure under his government, it criticised that Manipur Government of Manipur under O Ibobi by using all available resources and also, while opposing and attempting to derail

Hard-earned peace and its Naga political solution, his Kangleipak has been transformed into a pond of blood.

It had been proven to one and all that many of such criminal activities are being managed and carried out craftily in collusion with all available state machineries and non state actors just to create law and order situation for his chair but the Government of India is glorifying him, statement further held.

`Chief Ministers` bungalow was attacked four times and also several times at Raj Bhavan by undergrounds in connivance with state machineries`.

Claiming that the Nagas are peace loving people can longer live safely and peacefully under Ibobi`™s rule, it drew the attention of the Government of India to take political action upon Ibobi`™s government.

Umang Lai Lup happy Bill is dropped

IMPHAL, December 24: The Umanglai Kanba Apunba Lup (UKAL) has expressed gratitude towards the government for the withdrawal of the Govindajee Temple (3rd Amendment) Bill, 2014. According to a release

IMPHAL, December 24: The Umanglai Kanba Apunba Lup (UKAL) has expressed gratitude towards the government for the withdrawal of the Govindajee Temple (3rd Amendment) Bill, 2014.

According to a release of UKAL, it also expressed gratitude towards Ministers, MLAs, members of UKAL, experts of Sana Konung and Sanamahi Temple, leaders, teaches of Manipur University and colleges, Legal experts and members of parliament, scholars of Umang Lai, Amaibas and

Amaibis, Penas, Officials of the Prime Ministers, volunteers of Naat, leaders of Tangkhul, Kabui, Maring, Kom, etc., staffs of print and electronic media, columnists, artists of Sumang Leela and films, retired employees, various Umanglai lup members, Manipuri communities of Assam, Nagaland, Tripura, Myanmar, UK, Australia and Canada, Nupi lups for their support to boycott the Bill, it said.

However, in order to prevent any problems in the future to rise against Umanglai, it has appealed to dismiss the Govindajee Temple 3rd Amendment Bill, 2014 entirely. The Joint Committee on Umanglai (JCU) which is formed by 43 different lups situated in Manipur and outside has discussed on various steps to be taken up to develop Umanglai and Lai Haraoba. The lup once again conveyed gratitude towards the people and the government in withdrawing the Bill. It further stated that it will also support the government in the development works taken up for the benefit of Umanglai, it said.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2014/12/umang-lai-lup-happy-bill-is-dropped/

Lui Ngai Ni architects call for adding vigour to the fest to keep up its relevance

IMPHAL, December 24: Lui Ngai Ni traditionally celebrated as the Naga Seed Sowing Festival has been observed in a more organised and formal manner for the last 28 years. A

IMPHAL, December 24: Lui Ngai Ni traditionally celebrated as the Naga Seed Sowing Festival has been observed in a more organised and formal manner for the last 28 years. A decision to make it formal and by its current name `Lui Ngai Ni` was taken in December 24, 1987 by the organising committee of Naga Seed Sowing Festival, Ex-chairman of Hills Area Committee, RV Mingthing stated in a press meet today at his quarter in Lamphel.

The name was changed because elder people of our community want the English name to be changed into an alternative name in the language of the Naga communities which was achieved by the great effort of Imphal Municipal Council ex-chairman G Moirangjao and his deputy Phaomei Thambaljao, and ex-councillor of ward number 26 of IMC, M Maringa.

They were able to change the name by combining `Lui`™ a word borrowed from the Tangkhul community and `Ngai`™ which is borrowed from the Zeliangrong community and `Ni`™, a word of the Mao community, he added.

The festival, which heralds New Year and in its wake is expected to bring joy and happiness, celebrated on February 15 every year was declared as a state holiday by former Chief Minister Rishang Keishing on February 28, 1988, he said.

Mingthing said we should not forget that the foundation for converting the Naga Seed Sowing Festival into Lui Ngai Ni was laid on December 24.

Ex-chairman of IMC, G Moirangjao said the festival which is recognised by the government should be organised as a state festival in a proper place where all the Naga communities can gather and participate thereby turning it into a beautiful festival.

The spokesman of Tangkhul Welfare Association at Lamphel, RV John said the Lui Ngai Ni festival includes many events such as a beauty pageant, cultural dance, demonstration of sports and ancients war tactics etc but the festival is slowly losing its relevance as the current generation is indifferent to the real meaning and symbolism of Lui Ngai Ni. Only the older people are excited about the festival nowadays, he adds.

In the press meet, former Vice-chairman of IMC, Phaomei Thambaljao and former councillor of ward number 26, M Mainga also participated.

Governor, CM, others, send out X`mas wishes

IMPHAL, December 24: The Governor of Manipur, Dr. KK Paul has conveyed his heartiest greetings to the people of Manipur and particularly to the Christian brethren on the joyous and

IMPHAL, December 24: The Governor of Manipur, Dr. KK Paul has conveyed his heartiest greetings to the people of Manipur and particularly to the Christian brethren on the joyous and auspicious occasion of Christmas.

According to a release of the Governor`™s secretariat, Dr. Paul said Christmas celebrates the birth of Lord Jesus Christ and it is the most important festival in the life of a Christian anywhere in the world. The Lord was born to save mankind from sin and the festival is now celebrated by more people cutting across caste, creed or religion.

He was the apostle of peace who preached forgiveness, compassion and love and sacrificed His life for the good for mankind, it said.

The Governor wish the people to remember the sacrifice made by the Lord for the sins of mankind and follow His principles so that peace and harmony prevail the world. He once again wished the people of Manipur a very Merry Christmas, it said.

In a separate message, the Chief Minister of Manipur, O. Ibobi Singh greeted the people of Manipur and especially the Christian brethrens on the joyous occasion of Christmas, the birthday of Lord Jesus Christ.

In a release of the CM`™s secretariat, the CM said Christmas is the time for recommitment of each life to the finest ideals and to remind the profound message of the Lord to promote peace, unity and harmony in the society and amongst one another.

The Chief Minister wished the people to rededicate them on the occasion of the festival to imbibe the life and teachings of Christ for the welfare of humankind. He also prayed that the spirit of Christmas fill the lives of the people with peace, love and prosperity, it said.

Meanwhile the chairman of Hill Areas Committee, Manipur Legislative Assembly has conveyed his warmest greetings to all the citizens of Manipur on the occasion of Christmas.

According to a release of the Chairman, he prayed that the festival bring love, peace, communal harmony, cohesion and unity among the people of the state of Manipur, it said.

The Ethno Heritage Council (HERICOUN) has also conveyed greetings on the occasion of Christmas to the Christian brethrens of the state.

According to a release of HERICOUN, with the coming of Christmas, HERICOUN wishes for peace between all caste, creeds and religions and to live in unity. It also wished that the festival is held in the state peacefully and appeal to all the people in the state irrespective of their religion to take part in the celebration. HERICOUN once again wish for a joyous Christmas to all, it said.

A press release of the United Committee Manipur (UCM) has also conveyed greetings and good wishes on the joyous occasion of Christmas to the Christians of Manipur.

UCM has prayed for unity between the various castes and creeds receding in the state. It also wished for unity and prayed for protection of integrity of the state. The committee also appealed that no bandhs or blockades must be imposed during the celebration of the festival. UCM once again wished for a Merry Christmas to the people of Manipur, it said.

Major General Rajeev Chopra, IGAR (South) and All Ranks of Assam Rifles also extended warm greeting and sincere goodwill to the people of Manipur on the occasion of Christmas.

According to a release of the PRO, IGAR (South) has said that Christmas is a time of great joy, cheer, hope and happiness. It proclaims Lord Jesus Christ`™s message of love, sacrifice and forgiveness, compassion and service, courage and humility, peace and harmony. Assam Rifles also prayed to the Almighty to keep a benevolent eye on the people of Manipur to bring peace, prosperity and tranquillity in the days ahead, it said.

Meanwhile, the United Naga Council (UNC) has extending its greetings wishing the people of Manipur a joyous Christmas, 2014.

In a statement it said `Let all observed the birth day of Lord Jesus Christ on 25th December with prayer in true spirit of humanity as being taught by Him`.

The UNC further wishes Happy New Year, 2015 to each and every individual adding that the coming be peaceful, successful and prosperous year. May the Almighty bless all with good health to enjoy the bliss of life, bestow upon all, it said.

The NSCN-K Zeliangrong region also has extended its warm greetings to the people of Manipur on occasion of Christmas and wished for a prosperous New Year, 2015. In statement the outfit stated that `Birth of Christ`™ usher the message of peace and prosperity in the region.

It further prayed that the Christmas`™s healing touch shall put to an end to the conspiracy, killings and sorrows thereby bringing peace and consolidation amongst the people.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2014/12/governor-cm-others-send-out-xmas-wishes/

Imphal Book Fair concludes satisfactorily despite drop in number of visitors

IMPHAL, December 24: The 23rd Imphal Book Fair jointly organised by the State Central Library, Department of Art & Culture and Raja Rammohun Roy Library Foundation, Kolkata concluded today. The

IMPHAL, December 24: The 23rd Imphal Book Fair jointly organised by the State Central Library, Department of Art & Culture and Raja Rammohun Roy Library Foundation, Kolkata concluded today.

The book fair was held at the Thangmeiband Athletic Union (THAU) ground. During the ten days book fair, 50 book agencies from the state as well as outside the state took part.

Speaking as the chief guest at the closing function, Manipur University Vice-chancellor Dr H Nanadakumar Sharma said the book fair was being held to inculcate the habit of reading books as well as to promote the libraries.

Reading books not only give us a lot of benefits but also enlighten our minds, he added while expressing concern at the dwindling number of people who visit libraries.

Observing that the small number of visitors might have resulted from the advent of e-books, he said even though a reading habit can be developed by procuring e-books which may be more attractive to people; however, there will always be a difference between the experience of reading e-books and printed books.

The experience of reading hard copies of a book will always have a greater impact on the readers, he opined.

Books provide a link between the civilization of the past, present and future and it would have been extremely difficult to identify a civilization if there were no books, he said.

Lauding the organisers for organising the book fair with a great effort for the benefit of people, the Vice-chancellor further appealed the people to inculcate a reading habit.

Consultant to the State government, RK Nimai Singh said the reading habit of the people of Manipur has been revived but the number of people visiting libraries is quite small and it`™s disgraceful. The government also give less emphasis on the improvement of libraries but there are signs of an encouraging development when the Cabinet has taken a resolution for the improvement of libraries.

The decision of the Cabinet for establishing a Cultural University is commendable but establishing it will not be an easy task as there is only one Cultural University in the world which is in Moscow, he opined.

He further stated that many books are published in the state but the print quality is poor. Nowadays, buyers want books which have a good print quality and a fine finish, he added.

The book fair is providing opportunities to people and also students by availing various kinds of book which is not easily available in our market, RK Nimai said.

Retired Art & Culture commissioner P Bharat Singh said there is a need to make fully functional all the libraries of Manipur and making them fully functional require an adequate number of employees for their maintenance.

The President of India had given his assent for the implementation of the Library Act in the State in 1993 but it still remained unimplemented which is due to the insufficient funds for the libraries, he added.

Bharat Singh later appealed organisers to organise the Imphal Book Fair at a bigger scale in the coming years for the benefit of the people.

A member of the Manipur Sahitiya Parisad, Rajen Khumukcham, who is participating in the Imphal Book Fair said the number of visitors is very less when compare with the number of visitors in a Mela or the Sangai Festival which is embarrassing because people are avoiding to visit such fairs which will them lots of benefits.

DU students participating in PM`s Gyanodaya project arrives in State to warm welcome

IMPHAL, December 24: Students of Delhi University who arrived in the State as part of the Prime Minister Narendra Modi initiated project Gyanodaya-V were accorded a warm welcomed by the

IMPHAL, December 24: Students of Delhi University who arrived in the State as part of the Prime Minister Narendra Modi initiated project Gyanodaya-V were accorded a warm welcomed by the Institute of Bio-resources and Sustainable Development (IBSD), Imphal, a national institute under Department of Biotechnology, Govt. of India.

One of the visiting students stated that altogether 900 students, 10 each from nine different colleges and their mentors participated in the Gyanodaya-V and 130 students among them were sent to Manipur with the remaining others sent to other states across the North East region.

IBSD director Prof Dinabandhu Sahoo while welcoming the students said that their experience should be shared with as many people as possible to promote the State and its assets.

Participants of Gyanodaya-V who commenced their journey on December 18 will conclude it on December 29 this year. Today, the visiting students toured Manipur University, Tribal Research Institute, Sports Authority of India complex and IBSD.

During an experience sharing session, a history student from DU said that it was his first visit to the North Eastern part of India and the rumours of a war like situation existing in the state was proven wrong after coming to Manipur.

He continued that the magnificent landscape was a big asset for Manipur and added that his memory about the visit to the State will always be cherished throughout his life. His comment was well received by his fellow students present at the IBSD.

Security to be tightened around JNIMS ahead of Desmond`s meeting with Sharmila

IMPHAL, December 24: The Sajiwa Central Jail authority is going to strengthen security arrangement in and around JNIMS security wards as Desmond Countinho is due to meet Irom Sharmila tomorrow

IMPHAL, December 24: The Sajiwa Central Jail authority is going to strengthen security arrangement in and around JNIMS security wards as Desmond Countinho is due to meet Irom Sharmila tomorrow morning.

The meeting is to take place against the backdrop of strong opposition by Sharmila supporters who claimed Desmond as a spy trying to sabotage Sharmila`™s movement.

It may be recalled the Desmond who claimed to be lover of Sharmila was thrashed by her supporter on December 22 when she was produced before the court complex.

However, the Jail Authority to avoid recurrence of similar incident made necessary preparation.

Sources disclosed that in addition security arrangement made by the Jail authority, it has sent official intimation to the concerned Imphal East police station to provide additional forces. Moreover, authority has also written to the SP CID (SB) about the meet.

The meeting is scheduled to start from 11 am till 12.30 pm, as granted by Judicial Magistrate first class Imphal East, Wisdom Kamodang, on December 22.

It is learnt that usually the security ward is guarded by three police personnel led by one ASI JNIMS security ward and another three jail staffs.

But, taking into consideration of the sensitivity of the situation the Jail authority decided to deploy additional jail staffs led by one assistant jailor.

The sources further confided that Desmond will be barred from stepping into the security ward like in his previous visit however meeting would be allow from outside the gate of the security ward.

Any gifts or items from Desmond would be first carefully checked before handing it over to Sharmila.

Hunting Down Financial Fraudsters

The winter session of state Assembly concluded a few days ago with passing of just one Bill. It is the Manipur Protection of Interest of Depositors (in Financial Establishments) Bill,

The winter session of state Assembly concluded a few days ago with passing of just one Bill. It is the Manipur Protection of Interest of Depositors (in Financial Establishments) Bill, 2014. Moving the Bill to be passed in the House, chief minister O Ibobi during the session elucidated the need for passing it, citing that there have been cases of fraudulent practices by fake financial schemes in the state in recent times. He informed the House that even in Thoubal district, which is his home constituency there have been cases of fraudsters running away after duping many investors. The state has already witnessed fraudulent investment schemes vanishing without a trace with huge amount of money collected from the investors. In the past, IFP has been able to bring to light of the collapse of popular investment schemes in the state. It is true that many investors who had been conned by the fraud schemes are still not able to recover their money till today. Many families are still under mental trauma after the breakdown of such schemes. Most of the investors who suffered losses have time and again appealed to the government to intervene into the matter.

`It is never too late to act`™ is what the government has purportedly shown by introducing the Bill in the winter session of the House. Mention may be made that multi-crore Saradha scam in West Bengal stole newspaper headlines across the country. In this regard, the Central Bureau of Investigation arrested West Bengal Transport Minister, Madan Mitra, who is also a senior leader of the Trinamool Congress on the 12th of this month. And he is the first minister to be arrested by the sleuths. CBI officials regarding Mitra`™s arrest told the media that he was arrested on prima facie evidence of criminal conspiracy, cheating and misappropriation as well as deriving undue financial benefits from the Saradha group. It is certain that the said Bill which was introduced in the winter Session of the Manipur Legislative Assembly, after the Governors`™ assent would become an Act soon. Should it become an Act; let it serve its purpose to safeguard investors from financial racketeers who are on the prowl, looking for vulnerable targets.

The CM during the discussion on the Bill specifically mentioned that gullible `middle class`™ investors have been victims of the financial scams which rocked the state in the recent past. Ours is a place where one can find parallel growth of luxurious automobile showrooms, sprouting at different pockets of the town and also growth of pre-owned vehicles plying on the roads. Similarly, this is where there is simultaneous expansion of international-brand apparel showrooms along with the pre-owned clothes business. Locating the `middle-class`™, in such a situation, might not be easy. Leaving aside the task of delineating the Manipuri middle class in the context of financial scams, and however promising the Bill may sound in protecting the investors, we would mandate for a thorough investigation of the past scams which have left many investors high and dry. The investigation may be handed to the CBI or any other reliable agencies. Question is: will the authorities display the same commitment towards such measures? How long are they going to keep the financial fraudsters happy by allowing them to move freely?

Leader Writer: Senate Kh

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2014/12/hunting-down-financial-fraudsters/

Child Rights issues discussed

THOUBAL, December 24: A one day sensitizing programme on `Child Rights Issues in Manipur`™ was jointly organised by Arsalan Afifah Islamic Cultural Society (AAICS) and Diamond Youth Welfare Association Sangaiyumpham

The programme was sponsored by Manipur Commission for Protection of Child Rights (MCPCR). The opening programme was attended by MCPCR Chairman, A. Nabachandra Singh as chief guest, ex Up-Pramukh, Md Abdul Rahaman as president and Project Director of MOBEDS, Md Sallaoddin Khan, members of MCPCR, Ch. Nabachandra Singh, Ms. Haseen Chisthi and K. Maharabi Singh as guests of honour.

The function was divided into two sessions. During the convention session, MCPCR Chairman, Nabachandra gave speech on the topic `An overview of Child Rights Act, 2005`™, MCPCR member, Maharabi on `Child Trafficking`™, Ms. Haseen Chishti on `Child Rights Issues in Manipur`™.

Additional Director at Family Welfare Department, Shyamsunder Singh on `Child Marriage Consequence, Pre and Post natal Complications`™, `Child Rights Act`™, `Protect Child Rights`™, Assistant Professor at RIMS, Dr. Gojendro Singh on `Protection of children from sexual offense`™, AAICS, Senior Pediatrician Dr. Rupa on `Protection of Basic Right of the Child`™, To live physically healthy life, help the child to be confident self protector`™ and MACS Joint Director on `Problems of HIV/AIDS in Manipur, Efforts of MACS to prevent and control it`™.

During the closing of the programme, a discussion programme was held between the experts.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2014/12/child-rights-issues-discussed/

X-Mass greetings from the Archbishop of Imphal

IMPHAL, Dec 23: The Archbishop of Imphal Archdiocese, Most Reverend Dominic Lumon has extended his Christmas and New Year 2015 wishes praying that the festivals resound the joy and peace

IMPHAL, Dec 23: The Archbishop of Imphal Archdiocese, Most Reverend Dominic Lumon has extended his Christmas and New Year 2015 wishes praying that the festivals resound the joy and peace of Christ so that 2015 be free from any type of violence and injustice.

In a statement the Archibishop said that `On this occasion of the Birth of Christ, may every person be free from any clutches that holds back oneself and others from experiencing the love and peace of the Prince of Peace`.

Let every individual shun violence and hatred and be reconciled in the love and peace that Christmas brings to one and all, it said.

The President and the Executive of AMCO and TCLF wished different communities of Manipur a blessed Christmas and a prosperous New Year 2015.

As we celebrate Christmas, may the Peace of Christ be present in every individual in the State of Manipur, said a statement of the AMCO adding May 2015 be filled with the blessings of the New Born babe, Christ, the Prince of Peace of so that the coming year be free from violence and blessed with the Peace of Christ.

It requested any organisations to refrain from calling any kind of bandh or strike before the and during the Christmas celebration and appealed all the communities to keep away from any form of violence and experience the love, peace and joy of Christmas.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2014/12/xmass-greetings-from-the-archbishop-of-imphal/

Sahitya Akademi holds symposium on modern trends in Eastern languages literature

IMPHAL, December 23: A two-day symposium on `Modern Trends in poetry and fiction in Eastern Regional languages`™ was inaugurated today at the Jawaharlal Nehru Manipur Dance Academy auditorium. The symposium

IMPHAL, December 23: A two-day symposium on `Modern Trends in poetry and fiction in Eastern Regional languages`™ was inaugurated today at the Jawaharlal Nehru Manipur Dance Academy auditorium.

The symposium is being organised by the Sahitya Akademi.

Speaking at the function, convener of the Manipuri Language Advisory Board, Sahitya Akademi H Behari Singh said the Sahitya Akademi is divided into four regional zones with the Eastern regional languages zone being the largest.

He said owing to the efforts of the organisers, literature aficionados and writers from the region have gathered for the programme today.

Among the Eastern regional languages, the Bengali, Odissi, Assamese and Maithili are advanced languages and at the same time the potentials of other languages like the Manipuri, Nepali, Bodo and Santhali also cannot be ignored, he said.

The Sahitya Akademi is the only organisation in India which can highlight the uniqueness and richness of the literature of the languages, he said adding that the symposium is being organised for the same reason.

Behari further expressed hope that the two-day programme will be beneficial to the participants and make people aware of the present trend of writing in the previously mentioned eight languages of Eastern India.

He continued that the programme will help the participants identify the commonness, connectedness and the unique styles of the culture, language and literature of the region, which he said is also a necessity to encourage unity and oneness in a democratic set-up like India.

The function was also attended by convener, Assamese Advisory Board, Sahitya Akademi Karabi Deka Hazarika, eminent Manipuri scholar N Khagendra Singh, Sahitya Akademi, Eastern Region officer in charge Gautam Paul, and conveners of other languages of the region.

Drug detoxification camp held

IMPHAL, December 23: Substance Abuse & Cognitive Behavioural Therapy Research Centre (SABTReC) also known as SAVIOUR (Kanbiba) had conducted a free drug detoxification camp from December 2 to 16, said

Speaking at a press conference held at the organisation`™s Mongjam Chingjin, Heingang premises, he said the camp which was a success had been attended by around 35 drug users who had been already disowned by family members.

SAVIOUR was inaugurated on May 15, 2015 and works as an anti-drug group and also runs a private rehabilitation centre for drug users, he said.

Drug users who cannot control themselves will only end up in three places- jail, premature death or the rehabilitation centres, he said.

Sanjoo also said that more than 1267 drug users mostly juveniles have been rehabilitated at the centre. Successful recovery rate of drug abusers is very low in the State due to the environment, social system, family condition, etc, he added.

He further appealed to the concerned government authorities to visit the centre and provide some help are looking at their activities.

The 30 Assam Rifles E Coy presented the organisation with office equipments including office tables, chairs, water tank, ceiling fans, sports equipments, etc for the conduct of the detox camp, he said while thanking the AR especially commandant Roshan Verma, major Chandan Khoyal for the support.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2014/12/drug-detoxification-camp-held/