manipur – Page 825 – Manipur News

Aimols declare `We are not Nagas, Aimol will be Aimol` against Naga monolith

CHANDEL, November 20: A large number of people of the Aimol tribe took out a mass protest rally and staged a sit in protest against the erection of a monolith

Aimol tribe rally in Chandel district against tagging in to Naga NSCN Manipur

Aimol tribe rally in Chandel district against tagging to Naga

CHANDEL, November 20: A large number of people of the Aimol tribe took out a mass protest rally and staged a sit in protest against the erection of a monolith declaring the joining of Aimol into Naga tribe at Pallel Bazar today.

Hundreds of protestors including womenfolk took out the Mass Protest Rally starting from Aimol Ngairong Village and proceeded upto Unapal Lamkhai along the Imphal-Moreh section of National Highway 102 via Pallel Bazar and staged a sit in protest at a waiting shed of Pallel Bazar.

The protestors held several placards decrying `Naga Stone Erection in Aimol Land is not acceptable, We are not Naga, Aimol will be Aimo l- No suffix or prefix to the Aimol Tribe, We the Aimol people protest and condemn a monolith stone erection of Naga Stone in Aimol land, etc.`

Speaking in the sideline of the protest demonstration, Aimol Tribe Union Manipur (ATUM) president Akhel Aimol said that the majority of the Aimol people living in Churachandpur, Sadar Hills, Chandel and other places do not accept the declaration of Aimol as a Naga on April 13 last and subsequent erection of Monolith.

The said declaration and erection of the monolith is a handiwork of some individuals for their own vested interest with the support of just four villages out of 15 Aimol villages in Manipur, he added.

The Tribe`™s president also maintained that Aimol is a unique and indigenous tribe of the State having a distinct custom, culture, tradition and dialect.

The identity of one`™s tribe cannot be changed by mere erection of a monolith. As such Aimol cannot be a Naga by erecting a monolith even hundred times, said the president.

The Aimol Tribe`™s president further maintained that Aimol will remain as Aimol and will peacefully co-exist with other communities as it was before.

Chandel ADC member from 7- Aimol Tampak DCC, Ch Chanthoi Aimol who is also the advisor and a former Tribe`™s president said that despite the people of Aimol unanimously adopting the principle of neutrality in 2001 in which it was resolved that no individuals, tribe`™s president or village chief should dragged the Aimol Tribe into any other community`™s fold but should remain neutral as an Aimol, former president S Munthuireng in collusion with some Nagas declared Aimol as a Naga which is unacceptable to the people.

While condemning the act of selling away of one`™s identity like a goods, the ADC member further said that such act of selling away one`™s tribe for vested interest is unacceptable to all as well as to the people of Aimol.

We the Aimol will remain as Aimol and will be known as Aimol till our extinction, said the ADC member.

Customs destroys confiscated narcotics

IMPHAL, November 6: The Drug Disposal Committee of Imphal Customs Division under the instruction of the Office of the Commissioner of Customs (Preventive) NER, Shillong today burnt confiscated narcotics worth

Additional commissioner, Guwahati Customs Division consigning the seized narcotics to flame.

The narcotics were seized on different counts since 2012 from different places of the State. The NDPC court had also ordered disposal of the same, informed a source.

The seized narcotics included 3,771.8 kg of Ganja and 2500 strips and 4000 loose tables of illegal drugs.

The disposal of the narcotics was led by additional commissioner, Guwahati Customs Division JP Singh with asst commissioner Imphal Customs Division Gaikhonlung Panmei; superintendent anti-smuggling (AS), Imphal Customs Division Gyan Singh; superindentent STS (Statistics), Imphal Customs Division.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/11/customs-destroys-confiscated-narcotics/

Police conduct search operations at North AOC

IMPHAL, November 5: Police conducted a drive at North AOC today morning around 11 am. The area near the traffic island to some sections along the road leading to

People lined up for verification during a search operation. Photo – IFP

IMPHAL, November 5: Police conducted a drive at North AOC today morning around 11 am. The area near the traffic island to some sections along the road leading to Minuthong was cordoned off by police personnel.

Later, more than 70 persons including some women were rounded up by police from different houses and makeshift shops. The said area is notorious for housing commercial sex workers and drug addicts frequent it for getting different kinds of narcotics inclusive of heroin powder.

The drive lasted for nearly half an hour and the suspects were hauled to Imphal Police Station and released after proper verification. The team was led by additional SP Th Vikramjit. The drive is taken up as security measures ahead of the upcoming Sangai Festival. The drive included other police officers inclusive of officer in charge of Imphal West district commando, Inspector Potsangbam Sanjoy Chenglei and Inspector Sachi Soibam.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/11/police-conduct-search-operations-at-north-aoc/

India’s promise of shared sovereignty to Nagaland may herald an Indian perestroika for a good reason

Raj Singh Toronto, Canada The reformative vision and philosophy of Prime Minister Modi ushered a new era of change in India which has been welcomed as “Modi-fication”. His fresh

Raj Singh

Toronto, Canada

The reformative vision and philosophy of Prime Minister Modi ushered a new era of change in India which has been welcomed as “Modi-fication”. His fresh attempt to understand India’s north-east and his actions to solve its chronic socio-political and economic problems have a whiff of sincerity. The shared sovereignty he reportedly promised to Nagaland in the “framework agreement” signed on August 03, 2015 may be a new modality to replace the repressive measures India has so long been deploying in the region to subdue nationalistic ambitions.

It is true that the British left an unfinished job of deciding the fate of many weak nations/principalities in the north-east India under their suzerainty when they left India in 1947. The tribal territories of the Nagas, Mizos, Kukis and Khasi etc. they won during various expeditions during the nineteenth century were left as autonomous districts of the province of Assam. The Kingdoms of Assam, Tripura and Manipur were merged with the new India while kingdom of Sikkim was allowed to opt out to remain independent. Many cases of the merger especially that of Manipur allegedly were expedited against the will of the people.

Around the same time in 1944, the small Baltic states of Lithuania, Estonia and Latvia were forcibly put under the Soviet Union led by the big and powerful Russia. With these, seven other smaller states in Central Asia and East European region of Soviet Union remained unhappy in the union for four decades as they were subjugated by the powerful Russia. These states became free in 1991 when Gorbachev experimented a large scale socio-political reformation called, “Perestroika”.

When the small states asked for restoration of their pre-merger nationhood as a rightful demand, Russia, instead of repressive measures proposed an instrument of regional organization called, “Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS)” to benefit the dissociated states and an agreement, “Alma-Ata Protocol” was signed. The results in the after years were – diffusion of ethnic tensions, collective economic progress in the segregated states and the ending of the dangerous cold war between the Soviet bloc and the Western Nations.

In the game of geo-politics, powerful nations always remain watchful of socio-political weak points in others’ territories for a chance to covertly intervene and destabilize the adversary. The insurgency infested north-east may be India’s Achilles’ heel in the eyes of other countries. What entails therefore is that the insurgency in India’s north-east needs to be ended to protect India from the evil eyes of geopolitical players.

India will gain a lot from peaceful solutions of the insurgency in the north-east by fulfilling their political aspirations. It can stop the huge resource and reputation drain in excessively militarizing the north-east to fight insurgents in the difficult hill terrains. It can save its international image by repealing the notorious Armed Forces Special Power Act (AFSPA) and avoiding the numerous charges of human rights violations and extra-judicial killings in army action. It can establish its image as a world leader in the advocacy of special provisions for weaker ethnic groups and indigenous populations that are suffering in the hands of stronger groups in many parts of the world.

The newly segregated small nations with shared sovereignty in India’s north-east will also get a new leash of life with progress in all fronts concomitant with identity-associated dignity, increased sense of responsibility, self-reliance, peace and unity. Six decades of India’s rule with negligence, indifference, marginalization and repression has been blamed for various social malaise like serious loss of work culture, rampant corruption, parochialism and ethnic disharmony, economic backwardness and ecological degradation in the region. They need to be freed from these malaise. As free nations with shared sovereignty with India, these nations will provide an excellent buffer zone of protection to India’s frontier.

Granting “shared sovereignty” to Nagaland by acknowledging the “Uniqueness” of the Naga ethnicity makes a lot of sense to all the people of oriental stock inhabiting the north-east. This uniqueness goes primarily along the anthropologic distinction of the north-east as the starting point of oriental habitat that has contiguity with the far-east. It is for the same reason that India respected Bhutan, Nepal and Sikkim (in the beginning) as sovereign countries with special arrangements of sharing responsibilities similar to CIS of Russia and its breakaway small nations.

Granting sovereignty to Nagaland in isolation without a holistic consideration of the insurgency in the north-east will be India’s folly. This will be a stark evidence of India’s myopic vision of dealing with the north-east problems through appeasing the more violent groups. History has recorded how India traded statehood with violent Nagas and Mizos in 1962 and 1986 respectively to buy peace. For consideration of sovereignty as a matter of right, former kingdoms like Sikkim, Tripura, Assam and Manipur logically appear above Nagaland in the priority list. Alfred Lyall (1908), a British civil servant described Manipur as “an oasis of comparative civilization amidst the barbarians”. This was how Manipur stood out historically as a nation in the region with all paraphernalia like – its two millennia old chronicled history, its classical culture, its language with script, its elaborate governments etc.

Perestroika was a vigorous process which needed a visionary leader like Gorbachev and a horde of thinkers to agree with him. Mr. Modi has all the promises of a different genre in Indian politics. He exudes integrity and pragmatism. He will still need an enormous political will to overcome glitches to bring this overhaul. This hope is built on a ‘historic accord” which later on was reduced to a “framework agreement” the contents of which still remain a secret. Nevertheless, we see boldness and spirit in its face value.

The north-east people – the separatist demand groups, the civil society organizations, the think tanks, the social engineers, the political scientists and the politicians, regardless of their creeds will need to prepare a common ground for them to stand together and voice the same demand. This looks a big challenge when we look at the countless competing and conflicting organizations operating in the region. There is also a serious lack of political will and discipline in the region. To cause a Perestroika, the separatist demand if rightful should be voiced also by the regional politicians. There is nothing unconstitutional in a political demand. If they ask for the right thing they will get the thing right for them. The same applies when they ask for the wrong thing. Let prudence guide India and the north-east.

What the framework of the accord would be? – B. Angousana Sharma

The term Framework of an Accord has logic of understanding with a proposal inciting to do with an intention of second party and acceptance of the existing Body; which need

The term Framework of an Accord has logic of understanding with a proposal inciting to do with an intention of second party and acceptance of the existing Body; which need to implement the theory to practical. To the same course of act of NSCN (IM) and Government of India’s (GOI) Accord underwent, though unlikely to the people of the three states of Manipur, Assam and Arunachal Pradesh has been silent for three months. But the act of speculating result of the concealed thunder would be worse as the extravaganza of recruitnient of forces lauded in Nagaland. Rather it will not be healthy administration in the NDA Government.

The exposure of the intention of the Central Government by promoting Community Regimental Force (CRF) in the name of a particular community had to have second or third thoughts before commencement of the Accord and implementation, for that, the representation of the three states which neighbouring to the Nagaland should have been involved and should also have taken into confidence of the neighbouring states.

Hence, the norm to establish a CRF shall not finalise by a two party decision. Rather, the United Nations sanction and parliamentary debate over the enhancement of CRM would be necessary. Also, the Force should establish in the interest of the Nation, not in favour of a particular community. If necessary, Para-Military Force could be considered to establish in the Nation with mixed communities presentations, as 99 and 100 Bn. BSF of Nagaland was brought to participation.

Otherwise. such unconstitutional decision would be taken serious by Meitei Nationalist Party of India. Because, to-upgrade Naga Forces and threatening Meitei community in the Implial valley with the intention to discriminate communities in Manipur with the division on of hills and valley is taking serious in Manipur.

Therefore, to follow the constitutional as well as international norms of laws for forming up of a Community Force should be announced for implementation of such act would be coming into force.

On the other, it is also necessary to consider upon Manipur, the geographically isolated state of India, where lots of disturbances prevailed due to uncomfortable communication, while crossing over the hills, where also, necessary to upgrade the local force to the Regiment in Manipur. The Forces of MR were existed since the time of Royal Kingdom of Manipur. But, today, MNP appeal to upgrade Manipur Rifles to the Manipur Regiment.

Hence, Manipur is more vulnerable than the other states of India. Therefore, if it been discussed, rather sanction been made to upgrade Naga Regiment Force, there should not hesitate to upgrade MR to Manipur Regiment.

Hence, to deal with the diplomatic cult in India Manipur should be No.1 as Manipur fought the wars with Burma, China and Japan to protect Manipur, as hell as India, at that time there was no force input to fight the wars from the other parts of India. Keeping into consideration of the integrity of the border territories of the East, the Government of India may consider to include Manipur wherever, whenever any convention would necessary to institute in connection with involvement of territorial integrity so that the people of Manipur may feel ownness. Otherwise, by neglecting Manipur may cause a civil war like the war of 1903 and 1939, which of the act may result to immense destruction. For which, both of the Government either of state or of centre shall be held responsible. But, the loss of lives and loss of properties of the nation may occur.

Dynamic Manipur concludes Dynamic Startup Event successfully

IMPHAL, Oct 12: Aspiring entrepreneurs who came up with the business ideas like Taret Foods, Kangla Incense and Sangbrei Hairoil won the top three positions of Dr Amuchou Soraisham Aspiring

IMPHAL, Oct 12: Aspiring entrepreneurs who came up with the business ideas like Taret Foods, Kangla Incense and Sangbrei Hairoil won the top three positions of Dr Amuchou Soraisham Aspiring Entrepreneur Award in the Dynamic Startup Event held on October 11 at MIMS, Manipur University, said a press release by Dynamic Manipur.

It said, the top three toppers were awarded a cash prize of Rs 5000, Rs 4000 and Rs 3000 along with mementos, and the selected budding entrepreneurs will be provided with facilities like guaranteed Private Investments for Validated Business Ideas, 6 Months Business Mentoring at the Incubation Center managed by GLOBIZS and WOL media and 12 Ads Credits from Manipur Times when their product is ready to go out to the market.

The Startup Event was organized with support from the sponsoring Partners like Marina Spring, Shija Hospitals, Babina Diagnostics, FRANCHISE India, Hotel Classic, Imphal, Globizs Web Solutions, Manipur Creations, HVS Constructions Materials Pvt. Ltd with a view to boosting up the aspiring local entrepreneurs as well as help validating their business ideas by using the scientific tools like Business Canvas, Lean Canvas, Javelin Board etc, said the press release.

It said, the first episode of “Dynamic Startup” was organized by Dynamic Manipur in association with MIMS, MU, Globizs and WOL Media on October 10 and October 11 after conducting two Lean Startup Workshops in the months of March and May this year.

The aspiring entrepreneurs were coached by Keshorjit Sororkhaibam, Faculty, MIMS, MU, Roshni Kumar Yambem, MD, Globizs Web Solutions Pvt Ltd, James Mayengbam, MD, WOL Media, and their business ideas were judged by Dr Dhabali Thangjam, Chairman, Babina Healthcare & Hospitalities Pvt Ltd, Koijam Vasunraz, MD, Manipur Creations and Hanjabam Shubra Devi, MD, Meira Foods, said the press release.

It said, as the endorsing partners, MIMS, Manipur University, Korea Manipuri Association (KMA), North American Manipur Association (NAMA), Green Biotech, Likla-Thangjam Agro Industries Pvt. Ltd., Imphal and WiseWorld Immigration and Education Consultants, Toronto, Canada extended support in successful conduct of the event, while WOL Media, Siroi Offset Printers, Thoubal, Globizs Web Solutions, E-pao, Impact TV, Manipur Times and The Peoples’ Chronicle were the Advertising, Printing, Technology and Media Partners.

Govt contemplating law against violence on doctors on duty: Chief Minister

IMPHAL, October 10: Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh said that government is contemplating a bill to enact a law in the State to prevent violence against the doctors by the

CM Ibobi lighting candle at the inaugural function of Annual Conference of the Associations of Surgeons of India Manipur State Chapter – ASIMANICON 2015 at RIMS

IMPHAL, October 10: Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh said that government is contemplating a bill to enact a law in the State to prevent violence against the doctors by the patient party.

The Chief Minister said this while inaugurating a 2-day 20th Annual Conference of the Associations of Surgeons of India Manipur State Chapter `“ ASIMANICON 2015, under the theme `Early Diagnosis and Treatment` at the Jubilee Hall of RIMS, Imphal today.

Ibobi said while he would have little to contribute to a scientific conference like this one, there is absolutely no doubt that problems related to health have a critical impact on the development and prosperity of this country, therefore the need for the role of the government.

`The problems are also complex and interlinked. However, while policy-makers are aware of the seriousness of the problem, there is very little awareness of its different dimensions among the broader category of opinion makers and the informed public.` He said.

A kind of pressure can be generated by creating a broader awareness of the problem which generates pressure to bring about corrective action and also sufficiently broad based understanding of the problem to make corrective action politically acceptable, the chief minister added.

He recalled the United States policy on affordable healthcare which has resulted in a number of publications on how to improve medical coverage, healthcare and reduce healthcare costs across the world.

`I note with appreciation that the Association has brought together leading specialists from the public and private organizations to share knowledge and skills with a view to providing quality healthcare in the country`, he said.

He further added that in the health sector our goal is to bring “a long and healthy life for all our citizens”.

Our key objective is to increase the life expectancy of our citizens and ensure that all people have access to healthcare, he added.

The key outputs in this regard are to reduce the mortality rate, reduce the impact and prevalence of HIV and AIDS and other communicable diseases, and to ensure an effective health care system, he said.

To achieve these outputs, our key activities include ensuring a well-coordinated health system with special focus on communicable and non-communicable diseases, he said.

Speaking on the burden of diseases due to poverty, inadequate resources, lack of equipment and infrastructure, he said inspite of all limitations, our surgeons have been relentlessly working towards providing quality surgical services to our people.

`It is heartening to learn that our surgeons, with whatever limited resources and technologies available, have been able to perform many advanced and complicated surgeries`, he praised.

`Here, let me assure that I will do whatever is possible in my capacity to ensure that shortage of infrastructure and technologies do not come in the way of providing quality healthcare to our people,` he reassured adding, the state government is dedicated to ensure a better healthcare system for our citizens and we focuses on Health Insurances to citizens, Financial assistance to poor people, enhancing the infrastructure facilities at District and sub-district level Hospitals, use of technologies like tele-medicine to reach to the remotest corners of the State etc.

The Chief Minister also said even as India is becoming an important centre in the aspect of Health Tourism, he would like to place on record that Manipur also has its goal to serve in this sector to the neighbouring country like Myanmar.

`I am sure this will take us in long way in delivering quality service not only the people of our country but also to neighbouring country` he said.

Also present on the dias were Parliamentary Secretary Victor Keishing as a guest of honour. He appealed the doctors to help the government in bringing peace and harmony in the state.

Prof. S. Rajendra Singh president ASI Manipur State Chapter who presided over the function drew the attention of the state government to create the infrastructure for the organ transplant facility in the state.

Re-Imagining Manipur: Post-Churachandpur Narrative – Sira Kharay

As the deadly flames in the hills of Manipur refuse to die down, Manipur this time is surely confronting a decisive battle of political metamorphosis. Manipur never before has witnessed

As the deadly flames in the hills of Manipur refuse to die down, Manipur this time is surely confronting a decisive battle of political metamorphosis. Manipur never before has witnessed such enormity of tribal awakening since the history of its accession into the Indian Union. While the consciousness of the hill tribals is rapidly shaping into an ominous narrative of concrete ethnic political assertion, Imphal valley is still patching up its bits of imagination as to where it must redirect its idea of Manipur. For better or for worst, the overall political content of the simmering agitation is likely to recast the idea of Manipur forever.

The eruption was inevitable. The hills have long been simmering with deep sense of historical injustice against institutional bias and oppressive majoritarian politics at the whims of the valley. The hurried passing of the three controversial ILP Bills bypassing the mandate of the Manipur Legislative Assembly (Hill Areas Committee) Order, 1972 ignited the spark. Thereafter, the shocking use of live bullets in the hills and rubber bullets in the valley leading to the outrageous killing of 9 tribal civilians at CCPur enraged the hill tribals to the point of no return. It has already attracted national as well as international attention and the intensity of the agitation has turned even more dramatic with the Young Paite Association public boycotting and banishing its tribal MLAs.

While the State Government is still reluctant to come up with any groundbreaking concession to resolve the issue, the assertion of the hills is no longer so much about the amendment of the three controversial ILP Bills now and no degree of amendment whatsoever is likely to quell the unleashing strive. Total separation from the valley has become the rallying cry of the hills with the renewed assertion of ethnic Northeast “will” for distinct identity as the ideological subtext, i.e. Northeast may be in India but only without actually being Indian. The driving perception is that Imphal valley will someday come up again with its demands for Hill State and ST status and thus the possibility for co-existence has altogether disappeared.

Amidst this political turmoil, as Imphal valley grapples with its lack of regional imagination and continues to articulate its ethnic interest in a hyperbole adversarial to other ethnic communities, Manipur is fast isolating itself from the rest of Northeast ethnic communities. Mizoram Chief Minister Lal Thanhawla, Former Lok Shaba Speaker PA Sangma and Nagaland Chief Minister T. R. Zeliang joining the chorus against the Government of Manipur is critical. In the backdrop of this emerging regional implication, the need of the hour is drastic policy rethink rather than indulging in a petty political spat. However, like Assam, Manipur seemed to have already sold its pulse of Northeast sense to political puppetry.

What is problematic is not in what the valley asserts in reclaiming its indigenous identity, but in the banality of defining the idea of Manipur on the basis of territory rather than from its historical memories and ethnic imageries. In other words, Manipur’s pathological inability to define its interest without upsetting and appropriating the rights of other communities is construed as anti-Northeast in the context of the larger Northeast-common-interest narrative. Be that as it may, Imphal valley’s obsession with the physical “post-accession Manipur” remains a challenge to common Northeast quest for re-righting the past historical injustices.

Manipur needs to be reminded that the widening ethnic rift between the hills and the valley is particularly a post-Indian-accession experience. Ethnic conflict characteristically for that matter is not Northeast but a post-independent Indian construct. At the root of this festering problem is the arbitrary appropriation and misappropriation of ethnic communities in the carving of the Northeastern States. It is nobody’s question that Northeast was forcibly annexed. The Sixth Schedule and autonomy provisions in the Constitution have proved insufficient to quench this feeling of subjugation as the existing boundaries essentially attempt to supplant the historical identities of the subjects therein with an artificial territorial being devoid of sociological meaning and reality.

Nagas consequently have been staunchly resisting this existing political map and to them, integration of Naga ancestral territory is a non-negotiable right. Kuki-Zomi communities likewise have been demanding their own autonomous district/state and the claim gets even louder. Manipur, thus, cannot actually exist but by suppressing the rights of the Naga-Kuki-Zomi communities. However, this much is clear that ethnic harmony in the troubled Manipur would remain an elusive dream until the Nagas are freely allowed to be integrated and the demands of the Kuki-Zomi communities are fully accommodated.

It is against this backdrop that the ILP Bills per se are not the actual concerns of the hills. The Bills are merely seen as a spark – as another testimony that the hills and the valley cannot co-exist. It is about time Manipur admits its unavoidable fate for its own existential interest and more so because Manipur may risk losing Manipur itself in the long run by further clinging to the delusive idea of perpetuating the status quo. The moot question is will the existing ethno-demographic and power structure of Manipur remain the same forever? Given the sheer size of the hills and the nature of demographic unpredictability, it is more likely that the hills would sooner than later reduce Imphal valley to a mere minority.

Manipur surely must be able to comprehend this foreseeable eventuality. Resurgence of Manipur then lies not in Manipur but in Kangleipak. Manipur’s imagination must thus go back to the midnight of 28^th August, 1947 when the Dragon God Pakhangba Flag of Manipur was hoisted at Kangla and reclaim its historical identity as in consonance with the cognate narratives of its other Northeast kinsfolk.

Photos of ‘UFO sightings’ in Manipur goes viral

We have heard of many Unidentied flying objects (UFOs) stories and sightings for decades now. The often buzzing of our world by extraterrestrials in the form of flying saucers or

UFO sightings in Manipur

We have heard of many Unidentied flying objects (UFOs) stories and sightings for decades now. The often buzzing of our world by extraterrestrials in the form of flying saucers or alien visitors seems to have become a part of our culture, that they purportedly share the friendly skies with us.

In an astonishing UFOs sighting, A man named Lincoln Liba have claimed that a group of boys from a nearby students hostel located at Mantripukhri Colony in Manipur’s capital city Imphal saw and took several images footage of a strange transparent circular object hovering over the neighbourhood on Wednesday’s afternoon, reported IB Times

The photographs of this mysterious large disc-shape UFO were then uploaded on social media. Interestingly, the round, see-through object is seen just above the residential buildings. One of the pictures even has a rainbow in the backdrop. It appears to be a genuine photo and not photoshopped as a person is seen pointing at the object in one of the photographs.

Source: Sevendiary

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/10/photos-of-ufo-sightings-in-manipur-goes-viral/

Fire destroys properties worth lakhs in Chandel

CHANDEL, October 9: Local residents and fire tenders in Chandel were busy battling a blaze that broke out inside the kitchen of a dwelling house in Lambung Village in Chandel

CHANDEL, October 9: Local residents and fire tenders in Chandel were busy battling a blaze that broke out inside the kitchen of a dwelling house in Lambung Village in Chandel Thursday morning.

Sr Wanghring Anal, elder brother who lived next door to the house said his younger brother a Subedar of 3rd Naga regiment Sr Elvenson Anal`™s wife (owner of the house) Alony and their three sons were inside the house when the fire broke out from unknown source in the kitchen at about 1:29 am.

However, none of them suffered any injuries, he said.

Chandel fire brigade was called to the scene around 2am as the locals had already started battling the fire.

The flames had engulfed the entire house and destroyed properties worth Rs 20, 84,000 as told to police by Wanghring in his report.

There is no word yet on what may have caused the fire.

The Chandel police led by Ts Anghring, in the early morning visited the spot and registered a general diary for investigation under GD No.16/cdl/PS/2015.

Later, speaking to media persons, SR Wanghring said his sister- in-law Dy Alony alerted him after spotting a fire that broke out from the kitchen at about 1:29 am.

He said he alerted the neighbours following which neighbours gathered to douse off the fire.

Even though the fire was put under control with the help of the neighbours, fire brigade and the Assam rifles, the house turned to cinders thereby destroying properties worth Rs 20, 84,000.

Wanghring on behalf of his brother, thanked the locals, well-wishers and relatives, fire brigade, police, Assam Rifles and the Lambung village chief St Ngamrung for their timely help.

AMAND Press Release on Social Outreached Program 2015

AMAND Social Outreached Programme

As a part of ongoing Social Outreached Program, the Association of Manipuri Diaspora (AMAND), Pune which is a registered non-profit, non-government community organization formed by the Manipuri professionals working in /retired from the Central Government or Maharashtra Government or other reputed Institutions based in and around Pune, has organized a Social Outreached Program under the banner “Meeyamgi Thougal –Spirit of Social Upliftment’ at the SOS Children’s Village, Pune on Friday, the 02nd October 2015. This Orphanage, where about 200 orphans are housing under its care, is a model village under the aegis of the non-government, International SOS Children’s Villages working to meet the needs and protect the interests and rights of under
privileged children globally.

As a part of this outreach program, an interactive session based on the ‘Communication Skills Development Program’ for the senior level students of this village was conducted by a senior member of AMAND Pune, Dr. Kh. Somorendro Singh, Former Director, Institute of Co-operative Management (ICM), Imphal & Associate Professor, VAMNICOM, Pune who is an eminent soft skills communication cum management trainer by profession. About 50 students were attended the session. The interaction was very lively and vibrant with an overwhelming response from the students. Further, Dr. Singh motivated the students to dream bigger and cultivate necessary skills and competencies to translate the dreams into a grand fulfilling reality. The half day program was concluded with a Tree Plantation Program in and around the homes of SOS Children’s Village campus at Pune by the members of AMAND and students of junior classes of this SOS Children’s village.
This program was co-ordinated by Shri Th. Premkanta Singh.

Northeast India Women Mother’s Bazaar of Bamboo Craft and Weaving Exhibition held at Delhi

Women Weaving Peace Together: Ima Keithel – A Northeast India Women Mother’s Bazaar of Bamboo Craft and Weaving Exhibition held at Delhi. Photo : CAF, India

New Delhi, 03 Oct 2015: Women survivors of Northeast India and Chittagong Hill Tracts, Bangladesh showcases beautiful handloom and handicraft products at the exhibition titled “Ima Keithel ~ A Northeast India Women Mothers Bazaar of Bamboo Craft and Weaving” that was held from 21 to 25 September at Gandhi King Plaza, India International Centre, New Delhi.

The exhibition was inaugurated by Ms Marina Walter, Deputy Country Director, United Nations Development Program, India and Ms Namita Gautam, Director, Sleepwell Foundation. The exhibition was visited by eminent personalities namely Dr Kapila Vatsyayan, Chairperson, Asia Project, India International Centre; Ms. Kiran Mehra-Kerpelman, Director & Mr. Rajiv Chandran , National Information Officer of United Nations Information Centre, New India; Ex Governor of Mizoram Mr Amolak Rattan Kohli ; Ms. Laldingliani Sailo, Member of National Commission for Women; Prof Sanjoy Hazarika, Director, Centre for North East Studies and Policy Research, Jamia Millia Islamia; Ms Tajinder Kaur of North East Centre for Technology Application and Reach; women leaders from Northeast India, Nepal, Bangladesh and Myanmar.

The concept of “all women’s” markets is very well known in Manipur. It is popularly known as “Ima Keithel” or “Mothers Market” where over 4000 odd Manipur women congregate in capital Imphal and in smaller locations across state to sell their products. It is a very unique phenomenon hardly found in other parts of country. “We used this concept of “women’s market” to ensure women affected by conflict from across ethnic communities and region come together in an important process to nurture understanding and peace amongst communities long divided by divides which are mostly man-made”, Ms Binalakshmi Nepram, Secretary General, Control Arms Foundation of India & Founder, Manipur Women Gun Survivors Network.

In this unique exhibition which was one of the first of its kinds in India, women weavers from different ethnic groups in Manipur worked together for almost a year with top notch committed team from Delhi namely E’thaan Design Studio and Rangsutra to present a range of design prototypes in weaving and bamboo. Besides the collection from Manipur, a humble showcasing of products brought by women from Assam, Nagaland, Meghalaya and even from Chittagong Hill Tracts, Bangladesh.

“We are first trained after which we make the prototype. We are given the layout for the motifs seeing which we reproduce the design,” says 38-year-old Arambam Bijaya, who has been a single parent to her 10 year-old-son after her husband abandoned her. Bijaya along with 100 other vulnerable women weavers have developed designs for a range of apparels in collaboration with the label ‘Rangsutra’ catering to the theme “The Bold and the Beautiful.” Salomi, a widow from Chandel who has lost her husband on 2003 demonstrated bamboo craft products that was made along with 20 other bamboo craft artisans belonging to different ethnic groups in Manipur. A large selection of bamboo products like lamps, cheese trays, holders and baskets is on display.

In this week long exhibition, some of the products of the market tried to popularise are enaphee (a shawl wrapped around the shoulders), phanek (wrap/sarong), and leiroom (a hand-woven scarf used on ceremonial occasions).

The exhibition objective was to take the beautiful arts and crafts of women of Manipur and Northeast to a larger audience and in long run bring peace in Northeast region and to ensure women from different ethnic groups come together to weave peace together in the said platform. The focus of the programme is the economic empowerment of underprivileged and violence affected women through skill development. The exhibition through its weaves and designs each woven by a woman survivor from Manipur, across Northeast India and beyond tells us the story that there can be no peace anywhere without the participation of women. We, the women are the threads that hold a society, community and nations together.

The exhibition was well received by the visitors and praised the efforts of the women exhibitors and organisers. The exhibition was organised by Control Arms Foundation of India with Manipur Women Gun Survivors Network along with E’thaan Design Studio and Rangsutra.

MSAD organised “Irabot Day Observance Talk Programme” at DU

MSAD Irabot day talk, DU political science department

MSAD organised “Irabot Day Observance Talk Programme” at the Department of Political Science, Delhi University (North Campus). Photo : MSAD

Delhi, 01 Oct 2015: The Manipur Students’ Association Delhi, on 30 September 2015, had organised “Irabot Day Observance Talk Programme” at the Department of Political Science, Delhi University (North Campus). The talks delivered by Dr. Gurumayum Amarjit Sharma, Assistant Professor, JNU and Vijay Singh, Editor, Revolutionary Democracy, were moderated by Dr. Malem Ningthouja, Chairperson of Campaign for Peace and Democracy Manipur (CPDM). A book entitled “Comrade Irabot and the Way Forward” which is jointly published by Manipur Students’ Association Delhi (MSAD), Irabot Research and Commemoration Committee (IRCC) and Campaign for Peace and Democracy Manipur (CPDM) was also released. Many students, teachers and researchers attended the programme. A Note making competition was also held on the topic “Hijam Irabot and Revolutionary Movement: Legacy and Contemporary Relevance”.

In the programme, it was upheld that Irabot was a believer in democratic movements and social revolution. He had stood for Manipur with an internationalist outlook. Revolutionary movement will continue as long as there is structural inequality and injustice.

The PR was sent by Salam Benson, Academic Secretary, MSAD. They can be contacted at msad(dot)manipur(at)gmail(dot)com.

Phoomdi – a blessing or misfortune for Loktak

By Dr. Maibam Dhanaraj Meitei (E-mail: rajjhcu@yahoo.in) Last century showed a remarkable loss in the area of Manipur’s central valley wetlands at an unpredicted high rate. Increase in indenting inhabitation,

Phoomdi removal from Loktak

By Dr. Maibam Dhanaraj Meitei (E-mail: rajjhcu@yahoo.in)

Last century showed a remarkable loss in the area of Manipur’s central valley wetlands at an unpredicted high rate. Increase in indenting inhabitation, nutrient enrichment, construction inside the wetland, deterioration of water quality, microbial and heavy metal pollution, loss of biodiversity, high rate of siltation and garbage dumping is the present scenario of various wetlands of Manipur, including Loktak.

Population explosion and almost negligible increase in the net cultivated area led to tremendous rise in fertilizer usage throughout the Manipur river basin. Runoffs from agricultural fields find an easy way to Loktak and contribute significantly in the pollution of the wetland. Nutrient inflow to the wetland from the use of fertilizer is estimated between 100 to 200 kg ha^-1. Imphal city alone accounts for 40% of the urban population of the basin, and generates nearly 126 metric tons of wastes/day, of which 40% remains untreated. In addition, loss of vegetation cover in the catchment hills due to jhum cultivation and construction of barrage upstream, particularly Ithai barrage have grieved the ecological condition. Constitution of Loktak Multipurpose Project for hydel and irrigation converted Loktak, a natural wetland with fluctuating water level into a reservoir with more or less constant water level. Of the 36 streams flowing into Loktak, Nambul river is infamous for its contribution in the wetland ecosystem degradation by loading nutrients and heavy metals in huge quantity. The consequences are loss of biodiversity, weed infestation, decreased fish production and proliferation of phoomdi.

Enormous growth of phoomdi has severe impact on the wetland ecosystem processes and functions. Phoomdi float mostly in suspended state and displaces water due to buoyancy. This affects the elevation-area-storage capacity relationship. The observed volume of water displaced by 1 cum of phoomdi is 0.75 cum of water and phoomdi occupies near to 107 km² of the wetland surface. At present an estimated 45.96 Mcum of water is displaced by phoomdi. Therefore, increased phoomdi area will reduce the storage capacity of the wetland and eventually affect the water resources and wetland environment. The vast area of wetland covered by phoomdi (107 km²) is responsible for heavy loss of water through evapotranspiration. It has been estimated that water loss due to evaporation from the open water area of 73.5 km² is 75.3 Mcum and the loss due to evapotranspiration from phoomdi covered area of 107 km² is 136.4 Mcum. Presence of phoomdi in the channels and the channel mouth chokes and interferes with the flow regime. This results in prolonged stagnation and impoundment in the upstream courses and is one of the causative factors for flooding. As the phoomdi floats around the year, decaying of phoomdi plants and sinking in the wetland bottom has increased the eutrophication level of Loktak.

Mentioned factors led to the inclusion of Loktak in “Montreux records” by Ramsar Convention in 1993 (48 Wetlands in the list, out of 2171 identified Ramsar sites – by January 2013), highlighting the prior attention to be accorded to restoration of the wetland ecosystem. Government of Manipur responded with the establishment of Loktak Development Authority (LDA) for overall improvement and management of the wetland. Objective of LDA lies in checking the deteriorating condition of Loktak and to bring about improvement of the wetland with development in the fields of fisheries, agriculture, tourism and afforestation in consultation with the concerned departments of the state government.

With the unmanaged phoomdi in Loktak considered as potent factors for ecological succession of the wetland from open water to marshes and swamps. Initially, management of Loktak was mainly focused on removal of phoomdi, desiltation and availability of water to ensure sufficient generation of power. The master plan submitted by Water and Power Consultancy Services (India) Ltd (WAPCOS), a Delhi based Government of India’s consultancy organization focused mainly on development of fisheries, tourism and agriculture etc, with the construction of a 126 km long dyke encircling the wetland, dredging of a major portion of the wetland bottom, a large number of sluice gates, culverts, bridges and canals etc. with the removal of phoomdi by mechanical approach. The measures have not taken into account the problem of eutrophication, metal and organics pollution which is a physiological ailment of the wetland. This cannot be cured without understanding the ecosystem dynamics of the wetland which the authorities have failed to realize as relevant in their programme. Loktak development authority and WAPCOS while aiming at the enhancement of economic utility of the wetland and its beautification have ignored the problems of ecological health of the wetland. Dredging is meaningless if there is no adequate arrangement for the disposal of dredge spoils. Likewise, in depth baseline data need to be gathered before the removal of the phoomdi cover from the wetland. They failed to acknowledge the role of the phoomdi in maintaining a healthy and safe freshwater environment for the locals and the region, and the implications that will be caused to the freshwater wetland after phoomdi removal.

Phoomdi are reported to have a comprehensive capacity for nutrients and heavy metals accumulation from the wetland water column. Assessment of nutrients concentrations by several researchers showed accumulation of 478.6 metric tons of nitrogen (N) and 39.6 metric tons of phosphorous (P) annually by the phoomdi in the northern zone of Loktak. Phoomdi in the central and southern zone were reported to accumulate 729.0 and 419.2 metric tons of N and 60.3 and 36.1 metric tons of P from the eutrophic water. It was reported that that the nutrient concentrations in 8 dominant macrophytes of the phoomdi varied from 1.0-1.8% to 0.071-0.148% for N and P, respectively. Salvinia natans, Zizania latifolia, Echinochloa stagnina, Phragmites karka and Hedychium coronarium accumulated 1.8, 1.6, 1.0, 1.0 and 0.94% N and 0.084, 0.075, 0.054, 0.073 and 0.071% P from the eutrophic water of Loktak. It revealed an important role of phoomdi in phytoextraction of nutrients from the natural freshwater of Loktak. Thus, phoomdi helps in the restoration of the particular environment by acting as biological sink.

In addition, phoomdi plays an important role in the socio economy and traditional life of the local inhabitants. As phoomdi represents an entity constituted by more than 128 species of plants, presence of edible, medicinal, fodder, fuel, house making materials and plants useful in making handicrafts etc. are reported. For example; Locals normally have their meal with a vegetable prepared from phoomdi edibles. Local dishes, viz. iromba, kangsoi, kangsu, shak, singju and utti, thus form an important part of the traditional meal. Collection of the wild edibles from phoomdi is mainly done by womenfolk of the local communities. Alocasia cucullata, Centella asiatica, Hedychium coronarium, Neptunia oleracea, Oenanthe javanica, and Polygonum barbatum are commonly consumed. Phoomdi of Loktak provides luxuriant fodder for domestic animals. As a common practice, animals, viz. cows, buffaloes and goats are let free to graze in the phoomdi. Preferred fodders for the animals include Echinochloa stagnina, Enhydra fluctuans, Imperata cylindrica, Oenanthe javanica, and Zizania latifolia. Pigs are fed with cooked rice or fresh vegetables, viz. Alocasia cucullata or Alternanthera philoxeroides. Culms of Arundo donax, Narenga porphyrocoma and Phragmites karka, and shoots of Scirpus lacustris are commonly used as fuel in local households. As a commercial item, handicrafts made from S. lacustris are in great demand. Phak or mats, made by the womenfolks are sold at the rate of Rs. 200-300 per item. Handicrafts made from kouna helps in shaping the economy of many households devoted to the industry.

Above all, fish are attracted by phoomdi for shade, shelter, food and feeding grounds. The artisanal fishers around the lake has long ago understood the concept and they deftly devised a fish aggregating and capture method using the phoomdi in the form of circular floating island – called athaphoom. Loktak represents the largest fishery resource of Manipur, accounting for more than 50% of its fish producing area and near to >35% of its harvest from Loktak coming from athaphoom fishery. More than 19,000 tons of fish was harvested form Loktak and adjoining lake of Manipur during 2010-11, with 39% of the harvest from athaphoom fishing. Keibul Lamjao National Park (KLNP), a unique floating wildlife reserve in the world is composed of a continuous mass of floating phoomdi. It is the only natural habitat of the endangered species of Elds deer, Rucervus eldi eldi McClelland, with a population of near to < 200 heads in 2000. Loktak with its several islands located inside the wetland and surrounded by floating phoomdi of different geometrical shapes makes it a unique destination for tourism.

Proper management of the wetland requires an adequate understanding of the structure and dynamics of the whole ecosystem of the wetland in accordance with the science of limnology and wetland studies in place of ad-hoc methods practiced today by the organizations involved in the development of Loktak. At the conceptual level, the approach should be three pronged; comprising of dynamic conservation, sustainable development and equitable access to benefits of conservation. Dynamic conservation refers to setting up various means of an effective alternative for attaining the ecosystem condition of the wetland as it existed many decades ago. Sustainable development refers to the form of development that caters the need of the present generation without compromising with the needs of the future generations from the wetland. Likewise, the third aspect concentrates on ensuring equitable access to the benefits of the development to be implemented through the participation of various institutions and the local communities.

Removal of the floating island – phoomdi from Loktak need to reconsider the aspects mentioned, otherwise it will lead to ecological imbalance, disturbed socio economy of locals and ecosystem of the faunal members depending on phoomdi. It is the high time for the people of Manipur to decide and vote on whether they want to see the floating phoomdi as a blessing or a misfortune for Loktak, and act accordingly for the protection of the rapidly degrading Ramsar site before it dies.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/09/phoomdi-a-blessing-or-misfortune-for-loktak/

PRESS STATEMENT OF CIVIL SOCIETY COALITION ON HUMAN RIGHTS IN MANIPUR & THE UN: Manipur on the brink of an inter-ethnic calamity

URGENT PRESS STATEMENT Imphal, 11 September 2015 On the occasion of the 57th anniversary of the Armed Forces [Special Powers] Act of 1958 (AFSPA) that promulgated the controversial and

URGENT PRESS STATEMENT

Imphal, 11 September 2015

On the occasion of the 57th anniversary of the Armed Forces [Special Powers] Act of 1958 (AFSPA) that promulgated the controversial and draconian Act in Manipur and Nagaland, the CSCHR once again condemns the perpetuation of this law that violates the fundamental principles of democracy and human rights despite a worldwide call for its repeal. In this spiralling spread of impunity that has infected every sphere of governance in Manipur, the highly problematic implementation of this Act in Manipur ever since has not solved any of the problems it was meant to resolve. In fact, the climate of impunity and unabated use of brute force by the state to deal with any situation has repeatedly compounded and complicated the situation in Manipur. There have been reports of the divisive and partisan role played by Indian security forces in Manipur, most recently in Moreh Town in August this year.

The observed overall lack of training, preparedness and strict adherence to existing principles and guidelines of crowd control has resulted in the tragic death of one child in Imphal East District in August and nine other innocent lives, including one child, in Churachandpur district during this month, and the violent human rights violations of more than a hundred persons, mainly young persons and children in Manipur, including reported arbitrary detentions, torture and cruel or inhuman and degrading treatment, and grievous injuries perpetrated by the law enforcement agencies in different parts of the State. The State police and central security forces have been let loose to inflict a brutally violent response by using disproportionate powers to suppress public protests in the last three months concerning a set of laws purportedly designed to address a critical issue faced by all the indigenous peoples and communities of the State.

Curfew and public restrictions under Cr.P.C. Section 144 have been imposed repeatedly during the last three months in the districts of Imphal East, Imphal West, Senapati, Chandel and Churachandpur in the wake of public protests against the atrocities committed by the state law and order machinery. Public strikes, road blockades, market closures and public transportation shut downs have contributed to the volatile situation causing immense obstacles and restrictions in public life and government functioning.

Today, Manipur is on the brink of an inter-ethnic calamity. If appropriate steps are not taken now there is every possibility of an explosion of dirty and violent ethnic hostilities that can only lead to a human and humanitarian disaster of such proportions that we have not seen before in this sub-region of South Asia.

CSCHR is very concerned that there exists in Manipur a situation of mounting polarisation of different ethnic groups within the State fuelled by perceptions of multiple threats by the different ethnic communities, the spread of rumours and disinformation, highly objectionable statements published or released by fringe groups and elements aimed to bring about communal enmity, partisan discussions and meetings, the abject lack of the will to communicate and dialogue, expectations that are detrimental to the maintenance of communal harmony and the strengthening of democracy and human rights protection, and sectarian demands that impinge upon the provisions of the Constitution of India and international human rights and humanitarian law.

CSCHR earnestly urges the government of Manipur and all communities living together in Manipur to desist from partisan and divisive, non-inclusive processes and activities that can lead to a serious rupture of the democratic and sovereign polity of Manipur State. The need at this critical hour is for all communities in Manipur to embrace constructive suggestions and inclusive dialogue as this is the only avenue we have now to avoid a humanitarian disaster.

Further, CSCHR strongly recommends to the governments of Manipur and India to facilitate the healing of the suffering people of Manipur by immediately embarking on just reconciliation measures of redress by removing all legislative, policy and administrative encumbrances and obstacles in the State, such as the repeal of AFSPA and repressive discriminatory laws, re-establishing a fair and compassionate Rule of Law that is strictly in compliance with India’s obligations to all its citizens, the supreme Constitutional provisions and international human rights and humanitarian law for the promotion of democracy and peace.

sd/-

(Dr Laifungbam Debabrata Roy)

Convenor

On Behalf of the Civil Society Coalition on Human Rights in Manipur and the UN

Member Organisations of CSCHR are:

All Manipur Nupi Maanbi Association (AMANA)
Centre of Network and Empowerment (CoNE)
Centre for Organisation Research & Education (CORE)
Centre for Research & Advocacy (CRA Manipur)
Citizens Concern for Dams and Development (CCDD)
Civil Liberties and Human Rights Organisation (CLAHRO)
Civil Liberties Protection Forum (CLPF)
Committee on Human Rights, Manipur (COHR)
Ethno-Heritage Council (HERICOUN)
Extra-judicial Execution Victim Families’ Association Manipur (EEVFAM)
Families of the Involuntarily Disappeared Association Manipur (FIDAM)
Indigenous Perspective (IP)
Human Rights Alert (HRA)
Human Rights Defenders Manipur (HRD)
Human Rights Initiative (HRI)
Human Rights Law Network Manipur (HRLN-M)
Just Peace Foundation (JPF)
Life Watch
Manipur Alliance for Child Rights (MACR)
Movement for Peoples’ Right to Information Manipur (M-PRIM)
North East Dialogue Forum (NEDF)
Threatened Indigenous Peoples Society (TIPS)
United Peoples Front (UPF)

Youth from Manipur thrown out of train to death in Andhra Pradesh

IMPHAL: One Md. Azad Khan, S/O Md. Meino Ipham a resident of Kwakta Khuman in Manipur has been pushed to death from a moving train in Andhra Pradesh on Wednesday.

IMPHAL: One Md. Azad Khan, S/O Md. Meino Ipham a resident of Kwakta Khuman in Manipur has been pushed to death from a moving train in Andhra Pradesh on Wednesday.

His body was recovered from a track, 15 kms away from the Vishakhapatnam railway station. The relatives in Manipur were informed by the railway police on Wednesday evening.

It may be mentioned that, the victim was on his way to Bangalore along with two of his friends and they boarded the train in Guwahati on September 7.

It has been learnt that, the youths were attacked on their journey accusing them of being Manipuri. The victims friends who went along with him however managed to escape and had reached Bangalore.

This attack on person from Manipur comes after Bihar MP Pappu Yadav threatened to attack Manipur people travelling on train and passing through would be pulled down from the train and halted from their journey if violence on migrants from Bihar in Manipur do not stop. This threat comes after the inner line permit agitation to regulate migrant settlers in Manipur to protect the interest of indigenous people if Manipur.

Source: NE24NewsDesk

Oil tankers to reach State capital today, bring respite to fuel scarcity

IMPHAL, September 9: Loaded oil tankers will enter the State through the Imphal-Dimapur highway tomorrow to bring some respite to the scarcity of fuel in the State, especially petrol, since

A truck trying to manoeuvre through the muddy Imp-Jiribam Highway stretch at Makru.

IMPHAL, September 9: Loaded oil tankers will enter the State through the Imphal-Dimapur highway tomorrow to bring some respite to the scarcity of fuel in the State, especially petrol, since both highways feeding the State had remained blocked for some time.

Transportation of essential commodities including fuel into the State had stopped after a landslide at Phesama near Kohima Town in Nagaland blocked the Imphal-Dimapur highway since August 18, while the second lifeline of the State Imphal-Jiribam remained blocked due to a damage of the Barak Bridge since August 24.

Speaking to media persons today at their Sangakpham office, the All Manipur Petroleum Tankers`™ and Drivers`™ Union president Y Bhupenchandra said the Border Road Organisation has issued an official confirmation regarding completion of repairing work of the highway stretch affected by the landslide at Phesama and loaded tankers will start plying normally along the Imphal-Dimapur highway from tomorrow.

Empty oil tankers will also leave Imphal this evening for which escorts have been arranged he added.

He said since August 18, no loaded trucks were able to pass through the route due to the massive landslide at Phesama in Nagaland.

Simultaneously, connectivity along the the Imphal-Jiribam Highway was also blocked due to a damage of the Barak Bridge since August 24 he said.

This had led to a scarcity of petrol and diesel in the State he said.

He said some oil tankers had also left Imphal today along the NH 37 with escorts and will be returning in another three or four days.

At the same time, 42 loaded oil tankers are at the moment stranded at Jiribam while another 188 loaded tankers are stranded along the Dimapur route he added.

He further appealed to the CSOs of both the hills and the valley against imposing any kind of restriction to the tankers.

Manipur State Government to set up Rani Gaidinliu complex in Imphal: Kabui Mother Association

IMPHAL, Aug 28: The Kabui Mother Association has expressed gratitude to the State government for agreeing to erect a life size statue of Heipei Rani Gaidinliu along will construction

Rani Gaidinliu

IMPHAL, Aug 28: The Kabui Mother Association has expressed gratitude to the State government for agreeing to erect a life size statue of Heipei Rani Gaidinliu along will construction of Rani Complex in Imphal area.

A released from the general secretary of KAMA Ranjita Golmei further mentioned that in this regard representative of KAMA had met Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh and his council of ministers including Gaikhangam, Govindas Konthoujam and Okendro on August 27 at the Chief Minister`™s Secretariat around 11:30 am.

During the meeting, the KAMA proposed construction of the Rani Gaidinliu complex and statue citing that she was born in Manipur and the people need to do something for her, it said.

KAMA had also sought the government to allot land for construction of the complex along the national highways, it said.

In his response, the Chief Minister of the State assured to make the State government`™s decision during the unveiling of Haipou Jadonang statue on August 29, it said.

It said KAMA believes, the State government will act on its assurance considering the Zeliangrong community.

It has further condemned a step of the NDA government under Narendra Modi for taking an initiative to construct a Rani Gaidinliu statue in Nagaland rather than at her birthplace Manipur.

It is like looking down upon the Zeliangrong community, the KAMA statement said.

State hands over land to Union Ministry officials for sports univ construction at Thoubal Yaithibi Khunou

IMPHAL, August 27: Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh today formally handed over the land for the construction of the Sports University to the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports. A

CM Ibobi handing over land for Sport University construction to representatives of Ministry of YAS.

IMPHAL, August 27: Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh today formally handed over the land for the construction of the Sports University to the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports.

A statement issued by the secretary of the Chief Minister said following the announcement of establishment of National Sports University in Manipur by the Union Finance Minister, a team headed by Secretary (Sports), Government of India visited the State on August 1 and 2, 2014 and identified the proposed site for establishment of National Sports University at Yaithibi Khunou, Thoubal district as first preference.

It said considering the importance of the Sports University, the State government has decided to provide approximately 400 acres of land at the aforesaid location keeping in mind the scope for the future expansion of the university.

The land for setting up of the university at Yaithibi Khunou, Thoubal district was formally handed over to the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports during a simple function chaired by Chief Minister O Ibobi Singh and attended by M Prithviraj Singh, Parliamentary Secretary (YAS/Tourism); MLA P Brojen; Chief Secretary P C Lawmkunga; Secretary (YAS); representatives from the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports and several other officials.

The land handed over comprises an area of 336.93 acres at Village No. 44-Yaithibi Khunou,Thoubal district which is available with the State government, it said.

With this handing over of the required land, the National Sports University is expected to come up very soon to meet the aspiration of its people in particular and the whole country in general, it said.

The State government has also signed a Memorandum of Agreement with Ramakrishna Mission today at a simple function chaired by the Chief Minister in the Cabinet Hall of CM`™s Secretariat for establishment of a Primary School, with the objective of upgrading in the following years, a School of Languages (English, Spoken English, Burmese, Chinese and Japanese), a Computer Training Centre, Mobile Computer and Science Laboratories, Mobile Language Lessons and Value Education etc.

Education minister M Okendro; minister of Commerce and Industries/Sericulture Govindas Konthoujam; MLA L. Nanda Kumar; MLA R.K, Imo Singh; Chief Secretary P. C Lawmkunga; H. Deleep Singh, Secretary (Education-S); N. Praveen Singh, Director Education (S); Swami Bodhasarananda, Assistant Secretary, Ramakrishna Mission, Belur Math; Swami Nareshnanda, Secretary, Ramakrishna Mission, Imphal; Swami Ishanathananda; high ranking officials of Education (S) Department and alumni of Ramakrishna Mission from Manipur were present at the time of signing of the agreement.

Exclusive Interview with NEPO V.P. Swadesh Sarkar: ILPS opposed by people of Barak valley, Tripura and other parts of Assam

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH VICE PRESIDENT, N.E.P.O (NORTH EAST PEOPLE ORGANIZATION) By – Momon Thoudam The Vice President Swadesh Sarkar of N.E.P.O (northeast people organization) in his interview has expressed that

Vice President Swadesh Sarkar of N.E.P.O (northeast people organization)

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH VICE PRESIDENT, N.E.P.O (NORTH EAST PEOPLE ORGANIZATION)

By – Momon Thoudam

The Vice President Swadesh Sarkar of N.E.P.O (northeast people organization) in his interview has expressed that they have started their agitation after getting certain instances of harassment on non- manipuri people in Imphal valley during ILPS demand campaign, they got those from people fleeing Imphal and also from the newspaper published in Manipur.

He stated that N.E.P.O has formed in protest against the harassment both mental and physical being carried out on Non-Manipuri people living in Manipur, Specially in imphal valley. He also said that this movement has support from all across Barak valley, neighbouring Tripura and also from other parts of Assam.

NEPO, interview, North East people Organisation, Manipur, ILPS, Jiribam, Cachar

NEPO V.P. Swadesh Sarkar (left); Momon Thoudam (right) reporting from Jiribam Manipur.

In his interview he said that the when they came to know that those people who came to Manipur after 1951 will not be allow to stay, their name will be delete from electoral roll those who are in service with Manipur Government will be terminated and people won’t even live there in rent houses they started their movement.

This movement has nothing against Manipuri people but they are fighting with govt of Manipur to stop the atrocities being carried out on Non-Manipuri.

He cited that the economic blocked which started from 5.00 am today was called off, after getting assurance from the administration govt of Assam about certain agreement being inked between Assam, Manipur and govt of India within 7 days.

The D.C himself has assured about certain solution within 7 days or the N.E.P.O can carry out much larger movement in coming days.

He said that up to 1833 the entire Jiri valley up to Barak was under the kingdom of Cachari King and they have historically proof about it.

They believed in peaceful co-existence, he said people living in both side of Jiri river peacefully since ages and N.E.P.O has no grudge against people of Jiribam but their movement is with government of Manipur.

Earlier NEPO has strongly demanded Manipur government not to implement ILPS in Manipur and also has expressed their desire to remove Inner Line Permit system from the 3 North East states i.e. Mizoram, Nagaland and Arunchal Pradesh, where ILPS has been in placed for several decades.