Tag: State

IMPHAL, Nov 18 MNS NNN: ‘Deprivation Day’ was observed at Manipur Press Club by the Joint Committee on Inner Line Permit (ILP) System Imphal (JCILPSI) and expressed strong disapproval in the abolition of the ILP system on November 18, 1950 that put certain curb against influx of foreign migrants in Manipur.
Mutum Churamani, Co-Convener of the committee in his key-note address maintained that there was perfect regulation to check illegal influx of migrants in the state and now the absence of any check mechanism has resulted in tremendous increase of outsiders and that hill population has been outnumbered by “foreigners”.
“The state government is duty bound to adopt preventive measures to save the future generation from being absorbed in the population of mainland India. Since, deadline given by the committee expired today without any response from the government, it will go ahead with self-implementation of the ILP from tomorrow without the state government”, he said.
With the conscience that the state government does not put anything right until a public movement forces it, he said, the public would co-operate with the committee in carrying out their stand.
Sapam Jadumani, Convener of the committee questioned the sincerity of the government and said that the state government should form a political forum of all political parties and go ahead with launching of a movement to implement ILP.
People coming from outside the state should respect the indigenous customs, cultures and practices, RV Mingthing, former minister and chief guest of the occasion said and suggested for the co-ordination of both the state government and the committee for successful implementation of the issue. He urged the committee to introspect the issue deeper than jump into self-implementation.
Various communities in the North East should co-operate in maintaining their respective identities, he said.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/deprivation-day-observed-by-joint-committee/

Mail News Service
New Delhi, Nov 18 : The ninth edition of the State Level Orange Festival will be organized on 14 and 15 December 2012 at Mini Stadium Tamenglong HQs. A decision in this regards was taken by the State level organizing Committee yesterday.
Okram Ibobi Singh, CM, Gaikhangam Deputy Chief Minister and GK Pillai, Former Union Home Secretary will grace the celebration as Chief Guest, Function President and Guest of Honor respectively. While, the widely acclaimed state pugilist MC Mary Kom is being approached to attend the programme as a special guest.
As tradition, the celebration will see different interesting events like the traditional games and sports, orange eating competition, best orange competition, Orange Queen contest and various entertainment programs. Different artistes from without and outside the state are being contacted for entertainment events besides the cultural dance troupes from every district of the state.
In place of the former practice of organizing a seminar for orange growers, a field study trip will be organized for the orange farmers this year.
Handsome cash prizes have been announced for various competitions and contests. Rs. 3 lakhs, 2 lakhs and 1 lakhs has been earmarked for Best Orange, second and third prize winner respectively. While, for Orange queen contest the prizes will remain as that of last year, that is, Rs. 1 lakh, Rs. 75,000 and Rs. 50,000 respectively for Orange Queen, 1st runner up and second runner up respectively. Moreover, there will be five sub- titles of Rs. 10,000 each.
Hectic preparation has started for smooth conduct of the annual extravaganza that denotes Tamenglong district. The 40 Km stretch of Tamenglong- Sangrung road which is under very bad shape is under renovation under BRTF in view of the festive season.
Moreover, the organizing committee has appealed to all concern not to resort to any form of bandh or blockade which may disrupt the festival but to extend cooperation for successful organization of the festival said Ramkung Pamei, Convener, Media and Publicity Committee, 9th State Level Orange Festival 2012

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/orange-festival-2012-to-be-held-in-december/

SENAPATI, Nov 18 NNN: The civil organisations based in Senapati district have inspected the ongoing repairing works along the National Highway 2 from the Manipur-Nagaland border at Mao Gate to Senapati district headquarters on Saturday and witnessed that considerable progress has been done.
Three days after inspection and assurance made by the Manipur Works minister Kh. Ratan to resume repairing works along the National Highway-2 between Mao Gate in the Manipur-Nagaland border and Senapati district headquarters in view of the ASEAN Car rally, a joint team of civil organizations including Naga Peoples Organisation (NPO), Senapati District Students Assopciation (SDSA) and Mao Council conducted a surprise inspection of the ongoing works.
According to SDSA president L.R John, the team made a physical inspection near Mao-Gate which has begun the black-topping works. They also witnessed some considerable works implemented in other parts of the highway which are yet to be carpeted.
It may be noted that, the Mao to Tadubi stretch has been the worst portion with just boulders making up the highly acclaimed life line of Manipur. The recent developmental works of the NH-2 has come as surprise and much anticipated move of the State Government which the people of the district have been demanding for good road since many years now.
The three civil bodies have lauded the concerned Manipur PWD department and the contractors for living up to the wishes of the general public to have a motorable road. While extending its endorsement and co-operation to the works, they also appealed to the public to extend their maximum support and co-operations to the department, contractors, laborers and protection of the machinery along the highway. The three bodies have also asked any organization or agency not to interfere or disturb the ongoing works which can jeopardize the whole project and further delay the successful implementation of a developed NH-2.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/road-works-at-senapati-inspected/

IMPHAL, Nov 18 NNN: Global Liangmai Forum (GLF) is organising a day-long seminar at Liangmai Church, Imphal on December 21 with former Lok Sabha member Mani Charenamei and former joint director of Tribal Research Institute (TRI), government of Manipur as resource persons.
Mani Charenemai will dwell on the topic, “Forest and Environment in relation to Economy” while K Daimai will speak on “Tribal land rights”.
Social worker Samuel Medaliang will moderate the seminar. It is expected that large number of Liangmai intellectuals and leaders will participate in the seminar.
Global Liangmai Forum has been formed to initiate intellectual discourses among the Liangmai community.
Albert Chawang, Angambou Kalengta, Samuel Medaliang, Tasuangwi and K Rangambou Niumai are main initiators of this Global Liangmai Forum.
It was formed on September 27 this year by like-minded Liangmais residing, studying and working across the globe.
This forum is more of an ideological think tank, a platform to reason and deliberate and also act as a ‘clearing house’ for ideas and dissemination of the same for our own growth, progress, prosperity and well being.
“It is an inclusive/common forum which is why the word ‘global’ is used to indicate that our intention is for our people to bond beyond borders of all kinds. This is an apolitical forum which will be mostly confined to churning of ideas, however, from time to time, the forum will also organize some activities like felicitating the Liangmai for the achievement in various fields, organizing educational tours, conducting seminars, creating awareness on different issues concerning Liangmai community, etc. with the intention of fostering the smooth functioning and to help realized the goals of the already existing Liangmai bodies like LNC, LC, LNKR, LSA etc.
“This forum will not be institutionalized by electing office bearers but based on the occasion and situation, a coordinator will be appointed to look after the project and also it will not actively function at home (Manipur & Nagaland) every time with our physical presence. This body is created with an ambition to strengthen the hands and wings of the existing Liangmai organizations,” the GLF said today.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/global-liangmai-forum-seminar/

IMPHAL, Nov 18 NNN : In the backdrop of the allegations hurled against the union president Momo Tantanga as involved in inducement in the appointment of teachers, the All Tribal Disables’ Union Manipur (ATDUM) has sought proof within three days’ time or else face court proceeding.
The union has dared Chungmi Ragui, claiming to be from Ukhrul unit and and S Hingba, claiming to be the president from the Senapati unit to prove the allegation against the president of ATDUM Momo Tantanga that he took bribes in the appointment of teachers as appeared in a section of the press.
A meeting of all the unions held at Nagaram yesterday, attended by Tamenglong Disables’ Association (TDA), Chandel Disables’ Association (CDA), Association of Persons with Disabilities, Senapati (APDS) and Association of Persons with Disabilities, Ukhrul (APDU) has appealed the public not to entertain or accept just anyone claiming to represent the organization.
This was highlighted today in a press statement of the ATDUM signed by its general administrative secretary, T Chuongsin.
In this connection, Association of Persons with Disablities, Ukhrul (APDU) has said that under the leadership of ATDUM president Momo Tantanga various issues pertaining to the disabled persons was and is being done.
A statement signed by APDU vice chairman LW Gainson clarified that Chungmi Ragui is not its member and anyone misusing the letterhead, seal or sign of the association for personal interest be not entertained but intimation be made to the right authority regarding such malpractice.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/disabled-union-dares-legal-action/

Mail News Service
Imphal, Nov 17 : RTI to seek information about Manipur Aids Control Society (M.A.C.S) was filed by K Seityajit. It was asked to give details of staffs , salaries.
Some of the questions asked were, How many Drug De-Addiction Centres are there in Manipur established b the NGOs to rehabilitate the Drug Addict individuals. Are the Medical Experts associated with those Centers permitted by the Health Services, Govt. of Manipur How many addict inmates had died while in the centers.
And how many had die before they reach their homes in escaping from the Center due to their negligence For such deaths, are the govt. and the Centers not deemed necessary to pay the ex gratia to the bereaved families.
Details about works taken up by MACS in the health sector, observance of ‘World Health Day’ , ‘World Aids Day’ , list of the De-Drug Addiction centers , list of beneficiaries were also asked.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/macs-asked-to-highlight-its-achievements/

Mail News Service
Imphal, Nov 17 : As a part of the ongoing National Library Week Celebration organised by the Manipur Library Association (MALA) collaborating with a number organisations across the state under the theme “Library Service for Universal Peace and Understanding” a Library Awareness Programme has successfully been organised today by the Hill College, Tadubi, Senapati District at its premises under the sponsorship of the Association. Dr. A. Suranjit Singh, Principal of the College was the Chief Guest of the Programme.
The function presided over by Shri Kh. Lowli, senior most teacher of the College was attended by around 70 participants which comprise of the teachers, students and youth leaders of the nearby localities. Shri M. Gajananda Singh, Librarian of the same college and an Executive member of the Association gave key Note and Welcome address. Mrs Monika Mathew, Shri Ksh. Basanta Singh and Krelo who are teachers of the College spoke on various dimensions of the Library Week Celebration and significance of library awareness programme conducted in remote parts of the state like Tadubi.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/library-service-for-peace/

IMPHAL, Nov 17: A new website of the Manipur Sangai Festival, 2012 has been launched on Saturday and the event will also be webcast live on the website.
M Prithiviraj, Parliamentary Secretary, Tourism and Youth Affairs & Sports launched the website: www.sangaifestival.gov.in at his office chamber in the New Secretariat ahead of Sangai Festival which has been scheduled to begin November 21 at Hapta Kangjeibung, Palace Compound here.
Speaking at the website launching function, Prithiviraj said the newly website will enable people everywhere to watch the 10-day festival on live any time.
A total of 300 different stalls will take part at the carnival. Of these, 100 stalls alone will sell food items. Several cultural troupes from Manipur and other states are also participating it.
There will be separate timings for troupes from the hill districts for cultural performances during the event, the Parliamentary Secretary informed.
Sangai Festival is organized by Tourism Department, Government of Manipur every year as a calendar festival and a Delhi based firm has started putting the detailed of the fest on the social networking site Facebook to promote it, he further disclosed.
The state Tourism Department is spending around Rs 2 crore in organizing the carnival.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/tourism-festival-2/

IMPHAL, Nov 17: Manipur Science and Technology Council (MASTEC) today said it has planned to launch accredited water testing laboratory unit for Manipur. In an unrelated significant move to enhance availability of more purified drinking water to the public, MASTEC has begun supplying 5000 litres of drinking water per day at Govindajee Temple, Imphal under a newly installed water purification system.
“Whenever the need of water testing rises in the state, we have to send sample outside as there is no accredited water testing laboratory here. To deal with this, MASTEC has planned to set up an accredited water testing laboratory unit in the state soon,” Th Surendranath, Director, MASTEC, told Newmai News Network.
However, the ‘brain-storming session’ due on Novbember 30 on the matter will give a clearer picture. The ‘brain-storming session’ will also be participated by resource persons from other states. Positively, Sanjoy Vajpai, a scientist at Department of Science and Technology, Government of India, has given green signal to the proposal of MASTEC, he said. However, Sanjoy has told him to discuss the range of water related issues of Manipur before the plan for installation is set off, the MASTEC Director further said.
Based on the positive response of scientist Vajpai, MASTEC has decided to organize a brain storming session on water related issues confronting the state on November 30 at Hotel Classic, Imphal.
The Department of Science and Technology, Government of India will sponsor the brain storming session wherein a host of resource persons from other states including Vajpai will take part.
In samples collected from various water sources from different parts of the state, the presence of arsenic and other harmful minerals including polluted water have been detected during tests, Surendranath said, adding such tests were carried out outside the state.
It would be an advantage and at the same time a much easier task while conducting water testing if an accredited water testing laboratory is opened in Manipur, he said.
Meanwhile, MASTEC has started supplying sufficient drinking water at Govindajee Temple under a scheme called ‘Demonstration of Ceramic Membrane Technology to North Eastern States.’ The drinking water supply scheme is taken up under Ceramic Membrane Technology (CMT), a water purification system, Surendranath informed.
He said the CMT is developed by the Kolkata based Central Glass Ceramic Research Institute, Government of India. Under the technology, MASTEC has begun supplying 5000 litres of water per day at Govindajee Temple. The installation of the mechanism has cost around Rs 5 lakh.
The newly installed water purification system at the temple can remove arsenic, iron and other micro-organism from impure water. Sample of the purified water was also sent to Central Glass Ceramic Research Institute, Kolkata for test. The test result qualified the standard of Bureau of Indian Standard (BIS).

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/water-testing-laboratory-soon/

IMPHAL, Nov 17 NNN: In the wake of insecurities created by various organizations for possible fragmentation of Manipur, a new forum christened as Organization for Solidarity and Unity of North East India (OSUNE-India) has been floated today.
Giving the key-note address, advocate Th Manihar Singh of Gauhati High Court said that the aims and objectives of the organization is for creating dialogue and discussion with all participating agencies for ensuring communal harmony, social integration and bringing solidarity and unity amongst all ethnic groups in the state of Manipur.
He put forward 15 points for discussion for possible amendment to the Constitution of India, of which 11 points were retained for proposal and 4 points chalked out.
Article 3 of the Indian Constitution as inapplicable in the state of Manipur to protect its territorial integrity. Application of Inner Line Permit (ILP), bringing all ethnic groups under a uniform civil code, recognition of Sanamahi as the religion of the state, provision for establishment of an upper house (legislative council) with a minimum of 40 members, augmentation of Rajya Sabha MPs to 7 on the basis of equal representation as done in the USA, inclusion of Manipuri script in the bank-notes, separate Manipur regiment along with reservation of 10% in the Assam Rifles, CRPF, BSF, etc posted in the North East, consideration of Manipuris for the posts of Governors and Ambassadors are some of the points mooted.
The meeting appointed Dr Khondom Singh Lisam as the Convener and Advocate Th Manihar as Co-Convenor of the organization.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/new-ne-body-formed-to-work-for-peace/

IMPHAL, Nov 17 NNN : The Zeliangrong Youth Front (Assam, Manipur & Nagaland) while rubbishing the statement of the United Committee Manipur (UCM), has said that the latter’s move amounts to inciting communal clash between the Nagas and the Kukis.
Terming the UCM statement as “illogical worries”, the ZYF alleged that the UCM was speculating for the recurrence of ethnic clash between the Kuki-Naga following the Kuki people raising a demand for creation of separate Kuki state.
“The expression of alleged serious concern by the UCM can be considered it as synonymous to incitement, sowing the seed of distrust with an effort for eruption of communal disharmony but the tribal people are very much aware therefore, the UCM need not propagate its worries. The most important point to be noted by the UCM regarding the Kuki people’s demand for separate State is that the Kuki people despite the fact of nomadic tribe, migrated and scattered and sparsely settled in some areas of hill districts but coming out openly with their demand for creation of separate State have manifested their discontentment by the nature of dealing by the State government. The Kuki people’s demand for creation of separate State is basically based on the right to freedom of expression bestowed upon every democratic citizens of the country hence, there is no potentiality or possibility for recurrence of Kuki- Naga clash, Meitei-Muslim riot or Kuki-Paite clash therefore, it is urge the UCM to be more cautious and maintain responsibility while showing concerns,” the ZYF stated.
“The Kuki people truthfully knew their actual position especially in Tamenglong district where there are hardly two-three thousand Kuki population therein presently settled in the deserted look villages with few households existing. Materialize or immaterialize of the Kukis’ demand for a separate State is a different thing and irrelevant to elaborate but how does and would the State government reacts to it will reflect and unfold the distinction of dealing by the Govt. regarding the road blockade imposed by the Nagas and Kukis,” it added.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/zuf-on-ucm/

IMPHAL, Nov 17 (MNS/NNN): Three persons including two salesmen and the owner of an iron store were wounded in a grenade attack that occurred at Hatta under Imphal East District Police Station on Saturday, according to police.
Reports said the incident happened about 1:30 pm at Hatta Chini Leikai in Imphal East when two unknown Honda Activa scooter borne youths threw the hand grenade which exploded inside Sudhir Iron Store, wounding two salesmen and the proprietor of the shop. The assailants fled the area after the attack.
The injured have been identified as Shikandar Shah, 38, son of Choudhury Shah, Laxmi Shahni, 27, son of Bhati Shahni, both from Bihar but presently staying at Major Khul, Imphal, and Athokpam Babudhon, 58, a resident of Keishamthong Thangjam Leirak, Imphal West.
Shikandar Shah is stated to be the owner of the iron store and the other two are the salesmen. Shikandar and Laxmi suffered injuries in the bellies while Babudhon wounded in both legs in the blast.
The trio received first aid at Hatta Public Hospital but Laxmi has been referred to Shija Hospital for further treatment. However, their condition is now out of danger, the police said.
In another incident a powerful IED was exploded at Shambrei, Nongpok Keithelmanbi this morning around five a.m.
The area is situated near the 15AR post Chandrakhong and the bomb was exploded when a vehicle carrying AR personnel passed the area.
No casualties were reported in the blast.

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

IMPHAL, Nov 16 NNN: Manipur deputy chief minister Gaikhangam will meet Union home minister Sushil Kumar Shinde on Saturday (November 17) to press for the early start of dialogue with the two umbrella organisations of Kuki militants, viz, United Peoples’ Front (UPF) and Kuki National Organisation (KNO) who are engaging in Suspension of Operation (SoO) with the government.
Gaikhangam who also holds the home portfolio, government of Manipur said, “I’m here in New Delhi today to meet the Central leaders. I will meet the honourable Union home minister tomorrow to press for the starting of talks with UPF and KNO at the earliest date possible.” The deputy chief minister of Manipur further said the state government of Manipur has been putting up its sincere effort in this approach. “So, I would like to appeal to all concerns to reconsider their decision of calling blockade in the interest of the people,” appeals Gaikhangam. The deputy chief minister expressed his optimism that the Central government will start the dialogue soon with the Kuki militant organisations.
On the other hand, Kuki State Demand Committee (KSDC) secretary Benjamin Mate and its information secretary George Guite informed in negative when queried by Newmai News Network whether the government has sent any feelers. “No feelers from the government side. We will go ahead with the agitation,” said George Guite. “Only after a written assurance is given by the Government of India that the process of political dialogue with Kukis, involving KSDC and Kuki militants, would begin within a predetermined date, then only we may review our stand,” asserted Benjamin Mate.
The indefinite “public blockade” in all the highways passing through “Kuki areas” was announced on November 12 by the Kuki State Demand Committee (KSDC) in demand ‘for a separate Kuki state to be carved out of Kuki traditional lands incorporated within the present day Manipur.
It can be noted here that on November 2, Kuki National Organisation (KNO), an umbrella organisation of more than 10 Kuki militant outfits had asserted that it demands a separate Kuki state in Manipur under the Constitution of India. The KNO then said it had taken a decision to abrogate the Suspension of Operation (SoO) if the government does not hold dialogues with it by November 22.
Addressing a strong posse of journalists on November 2 at Press Club of India, New Delhi, spokesman of KNO Seilen Haokip had said that the lands of the Kukis are never under the Meitei kings, and the land ownership system has always been under the Kuki chiefs. Until there is a political solution for the Kukis in Manipur, the chieftainship system should not be abolised, the KNO leader had asserted. Seilen Haokip then said that the KNO had already taken a decision to abrogate the SoO if the government does not begin political talks by November 22, 2012 to find solutions to the Kuki political issues in Manipur. “If there is no political dialogue even after signing the SoO, then there is no point in staying at the designated camps set up on the basis of the SoO agreement. The KNO will have no other options but to go back to the jungle and continue its armed struggle against the state government and the government of India”, he said..

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/deputy-cm-to-meet-hm-to-discuss-kuki-stir/

SENAPATI, Nov 16 NNN: The All Naga Students’ Association, Manipur (ANSAM) while endorsing the directive of the United Naga Council (UNC) in connection with the Manipur government sponsored Sangai Festival, has urged all its constituent units and the Nagas to adhere to the directive of the apex Naga body.
On Friday, the Naga students’ body said, “It is the social and moral responsibility of every Naga to strengthen the severance of political ties with the “communal” government of Manipur because of the unmistakeable facts based on upon which the Nagas in Manipur have demanded an ‘alternative arrangement’ outside the government of Manipur in the democratic process of the ‘tripartite’ talk of the government of India, government of Manipur and the UNC pending settlement of the Indo-Naga issue.”
The ANSAM further said that when there is no genuine efforts to address the differences and social divide, the Sangai Festival and such other state sponsored programmes with their superficial message of communal harmony is adding insult to injury which has been endured for so many years by the Nagas in particular and the tribals of Manipur in general.
“It is therefore hereby notified to our constituent units and to Nagas in Manipur that the November 13, 2012 public directive of the United Naga Council not to associate with the state sponsored Sangai festival and other such programmes should be adhered to in letter and spirit,” the ANSAM urged.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/ansam-to-support-uncs-decision-on-tourism-festival/

IMPHAL,NEW DELHI Nov 16 MNS NNN : The parliamentary secy. IPR, K. Meghachandra said, the role of media in a democratic country is of utmost importance. Media is a powerful tool. In a secular state like ours, the role of media is more important.
He was speaking as chief guest at the national press day 2012 at Manipur Press Club today.
We should laud the media’s role as it is trying to unite the integrity of Manipur.The new office building of Directorate of Information and Public relations (DIPR) which is now under construction at Keishampat will be inaugurated in January 2013, assured IPR Parliamentary Secretary K Meghachandra while speaking on the occasion of National Press Day and Manipur State Journalist Awards, 2012 ceremony held at the Manipur Press Club on Friday.
Staff shortages in the department including district officers will be filled up soon after due consultation with the Chief Minister, Meghachandra added, assuring that all the cameras, video cameras and computers of the department will also be upgraded.
“The staff should try to uphold the DIPR by cooperating among themselves because, despite being a small department it plays a key role in disseminating information to the public on various policy and programme of the state which is highly sensitive,” he said during the function organised by DIPR.
Acknowledging that the department serves as a fine bridge between the Government and the public, the Parliamentary Secretary also said DIPR needs to be strengthened so as to enable full implementation of policy and programme as well as the 15-point programme of the state Government.
Stating that the media is a powerful weapon in a democratic country, Meghachandra added that a state like Manipur having different communities, religions and cultures has further made the role of the media bigger. The role of the media especially in maintaining the integrity of the state is undeniably commendable, he insisted.
The chief guest of the function later gave away the Manipur State Journalist Awards, 2012 to seven journalists. Pradip Phanjoubam, editor, Imphal Free Press bagged the Best Editor Award on National Integration, P Bishwakanta, reporter, Poknapham received the award for rural reporting, K Vedajit, reporter, Ireibak was honoured with the award for health and hygienic reporting.
Sapam Aruna, reporter, The Sangai Express was given the award for women and children reporting, Angom Ranjit, chief reporter, Poknapham was conferred the award for science and technology reporting, Nepram Krishnamohon, joint editor, Sanaleibak received the award for parliamentary reporting and Wangkhem Rishikesh, reporter, Hueiyen Lanpao was honoured with the award for sports reporting.
A Mobi, president, (AMWJU), L Lakher, Commissioner, IPR also attended the function as guest of honour and president respectively.
Later, Meghachandra also visited the construction site of DIPR building and inspected it personally. The IPR Parliamentary Secretary was accompanied by other top officials of the deportment during the visit.
A seminar: Freedom of Media was also organized to mark the occasion of National Press Day at the Manipur Press Club.
Dr Aribam Ibomcha, news editor and head of Regional News Unit, AIR, Imphal delivered a speech on ‘The Freedom of Media with Special Reference to Manipur’ at the seminar. Yumnam Rupachandra, correspondent, Seven Sisters’ Post also spoke on the topic: Freedom of the Media. Seram Mangi, retired IIS moderated the discussion.
Meanwhile Minister for Information & Broadcasting Shri Manish Tewari has said that the changing paradigm in the media space has taken place due to the technological innovations in the media domain. Both the regulatory framework and human ingenuity have not kept pace with the technological innovations. I the current scenario, self regulation was the best way forward with the participation and partnership of key stakeholders. The Minister stated this while delivering his address at the commemoration of the National Press Day organized by Press Council of India.
Elaborating further, the Minister said, that in view of the challenges that had emerged, there was need for constant introspection so that the self regulation process could be taken forward. The Constitution of India under Article 19 provides for the freedom of speech and expression, from where the media drew its strength.
The Press Council of India has instituted National Awards to honour journalists excelling in print journalism in various fields were given during the occasion. These awards were given today to encourage the media to pursue its duties following the dictum of ‘freedom with responsibility’.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/self-regulation-best-way-forward-manish-national-press-day-observed/

Imphal, Nov 16NNN: Contrary to the request made by the Senapati District Students’ Association (SDSA) to restraint any action in the midst of the ongoing investigation process, the ADC members have reportedly decided to transfer the present CEO S. Kholia Larho.
SDSA stated that, such decision of the ADC members comes as a shock and premature at the time when the said senior MCS officer has been investing all efforts and wisdom to re-systemize the educational system of the district. The officer’s contribution and reforming administrations is much appreciated and lauded by the whole that, the premature development of the ADC members’ decision is not advised in the present situation. Thev SDSA has appealed to the ADC members to immediately revoke the said resolution and maintain the status quo in the interest of the student’s community in Senapati district.
The SDSA defending its stance added that, the present CEO has been conducting physical tour to every school under ADC Senapati to inspect the actual functioning system of the much criticized ADC schools which is reportedly operating with mere substitute teachers for remote students and salary drawing teachers without attending their respective schools. Here, the SDSA has expressed its sincere appreciation for all the efforts to reform the educational system in the district, which has become a serious necessity to develop a society which is inflicted by poor literacy rate compared to the other parts of the States in India.
It may be recalled that, the present incumbent CEO, since her posting to the District Council office in early 2012 has been initiating an effective measures in transforming the present structure to otherwise almost defunct situation of the Senapati district ADC office. Here with the collective efforts of the present CEO, the SDSA has began investigation in District Council office related irregularities and recruitment scam.
However, the immature move of the ADC members’ inspite of earlier appeals made by SDSA has come as an “unfortunate and premature action” to transfer a committed and dedicated beauracrate like the present CEO to achieve their political aspiration without logical end. The SDSA therefore, reiterates its appeal to revoke all political decision to maintain status quo of the CEO and allow the officer to implement the laudable policies during her tenure without political interference.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/sdsa-on-adc-members-decision/

IMPHAL, Nov 14 MNS NNN: Deputy Chief Minister Gaikhangam, Family Welfare minister, AK Mirabai, Commerce and Industries minister, Govindas Konthoujam, , Agriculture minister Abdul Nasir, MLAs and host of Congress workers on Wednesday paid homage to former prime minister Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru on the occasion of his 123rd birth anniversary.
Speaking on the occasion, Deputy Chief Minister Gaikhangam sharply rejected the notion of disintegration among different ethnic communities in Manipur citing the global movement lobbying for peace and harmony.
Gaikhangam made this statement while participating at a function marking the 123rd birth anniversary of former prime minister Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru organized by Manipur Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) at Congress Bhawan, Imphal.
He further said Nehru, the first prime minister of independent India, was a man of eminent personality and his birthday November 14 is celebrated as Children’s Day across India.
Nehru wanted a peaceful and harmonious India and the great statesman also took up initiative to make the new country a matured nation, the Deputy CM said. “We must work hard to make his dream come true by following his footprint, philosophy and vision.”
“His main political vision was to make a strong and united India, and to live together among different communities by promoting unity in diversity. We need to translate such vision of Nehru,” Gaikhangam urged.
The former prime minister also played a great role in introducing Non-Alignment Movement (NAM). This signifies that Nehru wanted non-interference in the affairs of other countries and a heaven like serenity in the world.
Gaikhangam also called for a united stand of the people of Manipur to determine exactly on what would be their contribution for the society with a new promise on this occasion.
Social welfare department has already set up Child Rights Committee with seven members last month, said AK Mirabai, minister of Social Welfare and Co-operation while delivering his Chief Guest speech on Children’s Day event at Bal Bhavan, Khuman Lampak.
She also praised the working of the department as a great asset, and stressed on the need for vigilance against child labour. Admitting incomplete of Angan Wadi canters as standing in the progress of the department, she appealed the contractors to complete construction works in earnest.She called for up gradation and improvement of the state’s Bal Bhavan and claimed that the state is not lagging behind others.Meanwhile, Children’s day has also been organized at Tamengong district headquarters of Tamenglong by the Social Welfare Department with Armstrong Panmei (IAS), SDO of Tousem and L Ibomcha, as the Chief Guest and President respectively, according to report reaching here. As part of the programme, a painting competition was also held at the mini-stadium of Tamenglong with around 150 students of different schools participating in the event, the source added.
44 Assam Rifles of 10 Sector under HQ IGAR(S) celebrated Children’s day at Chassad on 14 Nov 12. The event was inaugurated by the Commandant, 44 Assam Rifles, as the chief guest.The day was celebrated with children putting up a grand cultural programme.
In another occasion, 37 Assam Rifles of 28 Sector under HQ IGAR(S) organized a Debate Competition on occasion of Children’s Day at Community Hall Tuijang village in Chandel district The villagers and children participated in the competition.
27 Sector Assam Rifles under the aegis of “Red Shield Division” today organised a Medical Camp cum Mid day Meal at Salvah Model School, Kamdou veng, Churachandpur district. Apart from medical Checkup, School Children were provided with free medicines by the Medical Officer of 46 Assam Rifles. Meanwhile Commander 27 Sector also visited the Schools and provided them with mid day Meal for the School Students.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/homage-paid-to-nehru/

Mail News Service
Imphal, Nov 14 : : The United Committee on Protection of Natural Resources, Tipaimukh (UCPNRT) has demanded from the government of Manipur and Jubilant Oil and Gas Private Limited responsibly to withdraw all its exploratory efforts before ushering human crisis.
The Committee also demanded that the government of Manipur and Jubilant Oil and gas Private Limited declare all the memorandum of understandings (MoUs) as null, invalid and void. They further demanded that government of Manipur immediately put a moratorium on the on-going exploratory projects.
“The Hmar Inpui (Hmar Supreme House) and the Village Authority Association of Tipaimukh Sub Division, Churachandpur District, Manipur are seriously concerned with the manner in which oil and gas exploration has been pursued in Hmar areas. They are not provided with free, prior information and therefore the on-going exploration did not bear the consent and knowledge of the Hmar people,” the Committee stated.
It is shocking to learn that the total area granted for oil exploration is 3850 Sq. Km. which is almost one sixth of the total geographical area of Manipur. The drilling sites will be located in the following Hmar villages: Parbung, Parvachawm, Sipuikawn, Tipaimukh, Taithu, Lungthulien, Damdiei, Tinsuong, Sartuinek, Patpuihmun, Kangreng and Lower Kharkhuplien. Comparatively, the Hmar dominated areas will be most impacted by the project, the United Committee on Protection of Natural Resources, Tipaimikh added.
“Under the Eight Round of New Exploration Licencing Policy (NELP-VIII) the Government of India had signed one production sharing contract on 19th July, 2010 at New Delhi for on-land oil block in Manipur code-named „AA-ONN-2009/I with the Jubilant Oil and Gas Private Limited. The oil and gas tycoons have also secured the Production Sharing Contract (PSC) with the Government of India and a Petroleum Exploration License (PEL) with the Government of Manipur on July, 2010 and November, 2010 respectively,” the Committee pointed.
It then alleged that the MoUs are merely dictated rubber stamp imposed by the Government of Manipur and its colluding partners without informing or engaging the Hmar peoples in any of the decision making processes. The conclusion of this bureaucratic formality is nothing but an exercise to implement vested interests and to fulfil the narrow political ends of the dictating partners,” .
The MoUs are but tools to fragment our land and our peoples, with blind adventurism and unrealistically optimistic assumptions of profit and development; they are insensible to the peaceful and stable livelihood system of the people and their rights and therefore wholly unjustifiable. The MoUs are discriminatory and suppressive and highly injurious to the democratic and citizenship rights of the Hmar peoples for which the State and other implementing agencies should immediately tender an apology. Till today, the MoUs are made without the knowledge, consent, confidence, and approval of the Hmar peoples, the biggest stakeholder, in whose land the project is implemented. The on-going oil and gas exploration is severely a covert project that fails to be transparent in all its processes. All information that are supposed to link, inform and educate the people who will be affected did not reach them. The entire secretive practice is a negation of India s own Right to Information Act. Moreover, the project is anti-people. Despite the high-risks the proposed projects entail, the players so far not only failed to inform the threatened peoples about the possible adverse impact, but also failed to obtain their consent. In short, the project did not take into consideration the existence of the indigenous peoples and their rights.
In the absence of any democratic process and the failure to obtain the consent and approval of the Hmar peoples, the State actors as well as its colluding partners are merely institutionalising injustice. The players completely ignored the presence of the indigenous peoples whose existence is threatened by the project. The project, therefore, remains an imposed one. It is shocking to realize that the social, economic, and environmental cost of the controversial project is poorly accounted. Worst, the communities who will be affected have no idea about the possible adverse impacts of the oil and gas exploration. Moreover, the proposed projects appraisals are based on unrealistically optimistic and adventurous assumptions and failed to account for the direct and indirect costs of negative environmental and social impacts, the Committee further said.
The Committee also said that in the absence of any informed terms and conditions with the implementing agencies, the communities at risk cannot be made to compromise with their land, resources, livelihood system and rights. The absence of objective statement, guidelines for involvement by governments, private sector, and non-governmental organizations as well as public participation has created a serious vacuum for the threatened communities whose future is at stake. Moreover, there is no attempt, on the part of the implementing agencies, to include broader credibility and consent of the threatened communities other than the mere requirements for bureaucratic licensing that were aided by the threatening presence of heavily equipped security forces during the public hearings, it stated.
It then said its demands are in the interests of securing democracy, security, just peace, rights, “our” land and resources.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/ucpnrt-demands-stopping-of-oil-exploration-works/