NECEER – Into the Wild Photography Festival 2012

Into the Wild Photography Festival 2012 PRESS RELEASE 24th – 25th February 2012,  New Delhi… more »

Into the Wild Photography Festival 2012
PRESS RELEASE
24th – 25th February 2012,  New Delhi

The first day of the event titled “Into the Wild” Photography Festival 2012 saw the footfall of hundreds of people including students and teachers apart from photographers and wildlife researchers. It was a major attraction today at M.F. Husain Art Gallery of the Ansari Auditorium Complex of Jamia Millia Islamia University, New Delhi.

NECEER – Into the Wild Photography Festival 2012

The event is being organised by North East Centre for Environmental Education and Research, (NECEER), Imphal, Manipur in association with HTT Global consultants and The Ranthambhore School of Art Society, Sawai Madhopur. NECEER, a Manipur based non-profit organization have been progressively organising various educational and interactive events to promote environmental education and awareness across India.

The festival aim is to create awareness and seek public participation on wildlife and biodiversity conservation in India. It intends to draw the attention of the people from all walks of life towards the beauty and wealth of nature, making them realize its importance and urgent need to conserve it. The festival will showcase the photographs of wild animals and plants, places and indigenous people living in far off places of the country and sharing the space with nature.

“There is an urgent need to attract people towards nature and then devise methods to educate them about it utilizing creative communication strategies” said Mr. Sajid Idrisi, Organsing Secretary of the event. And Visual media is the best thing to do that, he added.
Besides a variety of wonderful photographs of wild mammals, birds, plants, local handmade art and crafts have been displayed. The magnificent charcoal and oil paintings of Tigers and Leopards in the wild made by the artists of The Ranthambhore School of Art Society, Sawai Madhopur was a major attraction at the event.

NECEER – Into the Wild Photography Festival 2012

“The festival is just fantastic with beautiful photographs, paintings and crafts showcasing the wildlife in an urban city like New Delhi” said Atom Rajiv Singh of Hansraj College, Delhi University.

The festival is a two day event, and will be closed tomorrow evening. An online photo contest was also launched months before as an integral part of the festival to provide platform to the young generation. The result of the contest will be declared tomorrow evening.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2012/02/neceer-into-the-wild-photography-festival-2012/

Grand Success of Phijigee Mani Screening at Shillong on 19th Feb 2012

Shillong, February 22 : On Sunday, February 19, 2011, the highly anticipated premiere show of… more »

Shillong, February 22 : On Sunday, February 19, 2011, the highly anticipated premiere show of the Manipuri feature film, Phijigee Mani, took place at the U SoSo Tham, State Central Library, Shillong, enthralling the audience with its moving storyline. The show sponsored by N E Brothers was a grand success with more than 60% occupancy of the hall. The event kicked off with the presentation of a bouquet to the supporting actress Miss. Momita by the producer of the film Mr. Manihar. It was followed by the reading out of the objectives of N E Brothers and synopsis of the movie.

“Phijigee Mani”, the first offering from the production house, Radha Govind Films, tells the story of a young girl Yaiphabee, who sets out on a journey to bring some changes and happiness in her family that has only seen woeful times. Disturbed by the past memories of her home-her family, it was not at all easy for her. This movie is a different treat for the audience as it breaks the monotony of the routine song and dance in Manipuri films. In fact, the film not only aimed to entertain the audience but also carry a strong and beautiful message about the mother-son relationship which was successfully delivered.

Directed by O.Gautam, the film is backed by power packed performance from its ensemble cast – Tonthoi, Abenao, Bony, Momita (introducing), Kumarjit, Shyamdhani, Shanti, Sorojini, Baby, Rainy. It is the first Manipuri digital movie to get selection for Indian Panorama 2011, IFFI, Goa.

The screening in Shillong was well received by the audience. The N E Brothers is please to inform that special request come from the audience to rescreen it. The decision on this will be announced soon. N E Brothers also would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone in Shillong for making the event a grand success.

The interaction with the audience post the screening has given the assurance that N E Brothers is heading in the right direction. Next, on the mission of the N E Brothers is to promote more such quality Manipuri films on a larger scale, taking these films beyond North Eastern regions. With this objective, N E Brothers will screen the movie in Pune on 25th March 2012 and Hyderabad in the coming months.

For details contact : nebrothers(at)gmail(dot)com

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2012/02/grand-success-of-phijigee-mani-screening-at-shillong-on-19th-feb-2012/

Two killed in accident

Two persons including a IRB man was killed in a collision between a Tata Magic and a 800 Maruti Car in front of Maibam Lokpa Ching under Nambol PS this morning around 11.30 a.m. The victims were identified as Pungdongbam Deben (40) Ngaikhong Khullen, Moirangthem Raju (40) Thamnapokpi. Deben is the driver of the Car […]

Two persons including a IRB man was killed in a collision between a Tata Magic and a 800 Maruti Car in front of Maibam Lokpa Ching under Nambol PS this morning around 11.30 a.m.
The victims were identified as Pungdongbam Deben (40) Ngaikhong Khullen, Moirangthem Raju (40) Thamnapokpi.
Deben is the driver of the Car while Raju on IRB man was travelling in the Tata Magic. A sum of Rs. 1 lakh belonging to Raju was found missing. He got the amount from a marup however the police could not trace the amount. Nine persons received injuries in the road accident and they were identified as Md. Sakim Ahmed (15) Kwakta ward No. 3, Laishram Subhasini Devi (40) Moirang Lamkhai, Md. Arif Khan (30), Kwakta, Md. Terney (15) Kwakta ward No four, Premita (35) Thamnapokpi, Kenedy (30) Thanga, Thoudam Bebe Devi (25) Ushoipokpi, Khundrakpam Boby Devi (41), ngaikhong Khullen and Laishram Jiten (43) kwakeithel.
Those injured were rushed to RIMS Hospital.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/two-killed-in-accident/

Naga problems discussed at Ukhrul

Imphal, Feb 26 NNN : Naga intellectuals and public leaders have carried out a brain storming sessions on a topic christened as “A dialogue on the concept of shared sovereignty in Indo-Naga context” on February 25 and 26 at Ukhrul district headquarters. The programme was organised by Naga Solidarity Group (NSG). Few intellectuals from Nagaland […]

Imphal, Feb 26 NNN : Naga intellectuals and public leaders have carried out a brain storming sessions on a topic christened as “A dialogue on the concept of shared sovereignty in Indo-Naga context” on February 25 and 26 at Ukhrul district headquarters.
The programme was organised by Naga Solidarity Group (NSG).
Few intellectuals from Nagaland also participated in the two-day event.
The programme had four sessions and in all of them the term ‘shared sovereignty’ debated, dwelt at, discussed and interacted by the participants.
One of the scholars from Nagaland said that the concept of shared sovereignty was first suggested to the Nagas by not other than Mahatma Gandhi. The Naga scholar quoting Mahatma Gandhi as saying,”Give Nagaland to India and I will give India to Nagaland.” The scholar however said that Mahatma though, did not use the term ‘shared sovereignty’ at that time. A.Z Phizo had supported this stand of Mahatma Gandhi, according to the scholar from Nagaland.
Meanwhile, at the end of the programme, the participants demonstrated their support to the ongoing Indo-Naga peace talks and urged the both the parties to expedite the peace talks.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/naga-problems-discussed-at-ukhrul/

Two-day NGOs’ conclave ends with a charter of demands

New Delhi, Feb 25, NNN: The second and final day of the Anil Agarwal Dialogue on Green Clearances saw the participating civil society activists interacting with senior government officials to evolve the agenda for reforms. Making a strong pitch for reforms in the process, Tisha Chatterjee, secretary, MoEF, said that the clearance and monitoring system […]

New Delhi, Feb 25, NNN: The second and final day of the Anil Agarwal Dialogue on Green Clearances saw the participating civil society activists interacting with senior government officials to evolve the agenda for reforms. Making a strong pitch for reforms in the process, Tisha Chatterjee, secretary, MoEF, said that the clearance and monitoring system needed to be decentralised – regional committees and local experts needed to be given more powers.
The Anil Agarwal Dialogue was being organised here over two days by Centre for Science and Environment (CSE), and it brought to the fore the various issues and concerns related to environmental and forest clearances in India. The gathering, says CSE, was one of the biggest of its kind with 150 participants from about 100 organisations. Almost every one of these organisations – coming from all over the country — has been fighting a running battle with industry and official agencies over control of their land and water resources.
In a recent study, CSE had analysed the clearances granted by the Union ministry of environment and forests over the last five years – and found that the country saw more clearances in this period than those planned for even during the 11th and 12th Five Year Plans.
According to CSE’s analysis, green clearances are not working for the environment – clearances are being awarded despite destruction of environment and livelihoods of the people. In fact, there seem to be concerted efforts by government and industry to dilute the already existing weak processes.
Says Chandra Bhushan, CSE’s deputy director general and the head of its industry and environment programme: “How much truth is there in the contention of industry that environmental and forest clearances are hampering economic development by delaying projects? We think there is none – this Dialogue was an effort to take our findings forward. We brought together all the stakeholders in this debate — the government, the civil society and industry — on one platform to discuss clearance processes, whether these processes are working, and what they aim to achieve.”
The government seemed to agree that reforms were needed. Said Chatterjee: “The baseline surveys, public hearings and the EIA report should not be done by the project proponents themselves. Independent agencies should do these things and the state may sponsor it.” He also indicated that it was necessary to separate the project clearance and monitoring processes. Currently, the regional offices of the ministry do this job, and the secretary felt that this system was unable to assess the situation on the ground.
He added: “Monitoring remains one of the key areas of concern. After the projects are given conditional clearance, it is difficult to assess whether the project developer is following these conditions. In such cases, fixing responsibilities on sub-regional committees and giving them financial powers may help.”
Chatterjee also pointed out that the government probably lacked a clearer understanding of carrying capacity of the environment: “Right now, we think that if the ambient standards of five-six major pollutants are achieved, the carrying capacity will not be disturbed. The receptors are not taken into account. Of 168 parameters, only eight are being examined in the current environment clearance process.”
The ministry was also of the opinion that EIA consultants needed to be well qualified, and their accreditation by the Quality Council of India was important. The ministry claimed that it has already initiated a system of fixing responsibility on the consultants and project proponents.
What the people want
· Consent of the people is a ‘must’ before granting clearances – and therefore, the public hearing process is extremely crucial. The process, as it stands now, is a mere eyewash and a formality that actually excludes people as stakeholders. The public hearing and its report must become a part of the decision making process; it should be democratised, and the people’s verdict should be final.
· Police or state interference should not be there.
· A mechanism should be developed to prepare independent EIA reports.
· EIA consultants found to be preparing fraudulent EIA reports must get exemplary punishment. Deaccreditation is not sufficient.
· The Environmental Clearance Appraisal Committee (EAC) should be reformed – it should have the required expertise, and the process must be completely transparent. Affected communities must be invited as well.
· Cumulative impact assessment must become the basic clearance mechanism and must be given legal force.
· Post-project monitoring is essential.
· Reforms are needed in the forest clearance process. This cannot remain a monopoly of the forest department.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/two-day-ngos-conclave-ends-with-a-charter-of-demands/

6 books with ‘nude cover’ seized – E-Pao.net

6 books with 'nude cover' seizedE-Pao.netImphal, February 26 2012: Women organizations of Manipur seized six books of Manipur origin which have nude pictures of women as covers and sold at a stall of the ongoing Manipuri Translation Festival at…

6 books with 'nude cover' seized
E-Pao.net
Imphal, February 26 2012: Women organizations of Manipur seized six books of Manipur origin which have nude pictures of women as covers and sold at a stall of the ongoing Manipuri Translation Festival at Iboyaima Shumang Leela Shanglen, Palace Compound

and more »

Read more / Original news source: http://news.google.com/news/url?sa=t&fd=R&usg=AFQjCNGBqWJXT86LNEk4EehModiItVUiSg&url=http://e-pao.net/ge.asp?heading=19&src=270212

School fee

IMPHAL, Feb 26:  The chairman of Shishu Nistha Niketan has informed in a press clarification… more »

IMPHAL, Feb 26:  The chairman of Shishu Nistha Niketan has informed in a press clarification that the school is still in session as it is a CBSE school and the final examinations are going on. It added the proposed fee schedule is for the next academic session and the increase in fee structure is for implementation of the Information Communication Technology as per the guidelines of the CBSE.A team of AMSU saw a demonstration class using the technology and was satisfied, it stated. Also, the proposed fee structure with Interactive White Board’s installation is very reasonable, he stated and invited dialogues in the interest of the students community of the state.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2012/02/school-fee/

Grenade gift

IMPHAL, Feb 26: A hand grenade, wrapped in paper was handed to an attendant of… more »

IMPHAL, Feb 26: A hand grenade, wrapped in paper was handed to an attendant of the RIMS casualty department last night. Reports said some unidentified persons gave the parcel to the attendant stating that it was a gift from some senior officials.Later, it was found that the parcel contained a Chinese-made hand grenade along with a paper with a warning message. Police recovered the explosive without any inconviniences and have taken up a case in the regard.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2012/02/grenade-gift/

Medical camp

IMPHAL, Feb 26: 1/11 Gorkha Rifles conducted a medical camp at New Lanchah village in… more »

IMPHAL, Feb 26: 1/11 Gorkha Rifles conducted a medical camp at New Lanchah village in Churachandpur district yesterday. Altogether 145 villagers were treated and provided with free medicines. The unit also organised another a veterinary camp at Mata village in Churchandpur district today. At least 1758 pets and other animals were examined and treated during the camp. The vets gave advices on rearing and breeding of domestic animals.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2012/02/medical-camp/

1st edition Amuco trophy state level polo tornament

IMPHAL, Feb 26: Singjamei Polo Club trounched Chingkhei Hunba Polo Club by 7-2 goals in… more »

IMPHAL, Feb 26: Singjamei Polo Club trounched Chingkhei Hunba Polo Club by 7-2 goals in the 3rd 57 Mounatain Division Polo Tournament 2012 played at Imphal Pologround today.

Singjamei Polo unfurls theirs wing right from the start as L Mocha Singh and S Girimohan Singh find the target in the first chukker and later in the second chukker, Manihar Singh pick up a goal to boost with 3-0 goals.

Downed with three goals defeciet, Chingkhei Hunba Polo Club made a dash in the third chukker with L Lokeshor Singh gets the better of Singjamei rider to push home a goal but Singjamei further increase theirs tally as S Girimohan Singh chips another goals to make 4-1 goals.

Singjamei Polo Club dominates the latter minutes as M.Manihar Singh, L Mocha Singh and M Doren Singh making connection to jump to 7 goals. Chingkhei Hunba Polo Club manage to strike theirs second goal through

H Arunjit but not enough to see them through and bow out with 2-7 goals.

The other match saw Lamyanba Pakhang Polo Club moves into the next round beating Imphal Riding Club by 7-2 goals.

The dark horse riders, Lamyanba Pakhang got the break in the first chukker as L.Tolongkhomba Singh struck home the opening goal. However in the second chukker, Prakash Bhandari fetch the equaliser for Imphal Riding Club. Later Lamyanba Pakhang push theirs gallop as B Dinesh scored two goals to make a leap to 3-1 goals.

The Lamyanba Pakhang Polo Club further makes inroads as Lamyanba Pakhang Polo Club rode in full throtle in the third chukker as L Tolongkhomba Singh hits home two goals while teammates B Dinesh and N Phillip Singh struck one goals each to post 7-1 goals. Imphal Riding Club final push saw Prakash Bhandari getting his team second goal. The fourth chukker failed to produce any more goals, giving the game to Lamyanba Pakhang Polo Club.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2012/02/1st-edition-amuco-trophy-state-level-polo-tornament/

The Repoll That Never Came

It seems the Election Commission of India has finally succumbed to political pressure. As the… more »

It seems the Election Commission of India has finally succumbed to political pressure. As the Commission choose to sidestep the issue of repoll, Manipur’s public have been denied of a free and fair election. The entire exercise of photographing voters by polling officials and photo comparison and the vivid photographic evidence of proxy voting in 523 polling stations have been wasted. The question is, why has the Commission shied away from its avowed objectives. In the beginning, Chief Election Commissioner SY Quraishi’s team looked tough and utterly committed to the cause of electoral reforms. And the general public was expecting a good election. We, at IFP, had chosen to congratulate Quraishi and his team a few days ago for their bold and ambitious measures, particularly the act of photographing voters with the inked finger, SVEEP campaign and of Media Certification & Monitoring. We had even appealed to political parties to cooperate with the Commission so as to ensure a free and fair election. Officials at the State Election Department burned midnight oil to complete the task of photo comparison in time. People have been eagerly waiting for the plot to unfold and the exposure of corrupt electoral practices. Yet, the Commission chose to close its eyes to telltale signs of proxy voting.

We understand, the act of conducting repoll in more than 100 polling stations is an onerous task which will involve huge logistical problems like security arrangement. But, it is not at all fair to sacrifice the necessity of a transparent election process for the sake of logistics. The Commission has at its disposal government officials and the huge security apparatus of the state. A huge expenditure has been incurred in purchasing mobile phones equipped with camera, more polling personnel were involved, and officials of the state election department had been harassed with the task of photo comparison. And it has all gone down the drain.

We must also mention the tremendous pressure given to the state media in the name of checking the practice of paid news by the Media Certification & Monitoring Cell. The pressure was such that, the state media developed a fear psychosis, and the essence of press freedom became blurred with the looming threat of ‘paid news.’ That perhaps explains the lack of complaints on ‘paid news’ were received from Manipur, while complaints were plenty in states like Uttar Pradesh and Punjab. The electorate was deprived the opportunity of critically assessing the various candidates including the sitting MLAs. In the United States, the state machinery seldom intervenes when the media discusses a candidate. If we are to elect a good leader, we should given the freedom of discussing the background details including the ideology and policy stance, character and moral of each candidate. The All Manipur Working Journalists Union put up a demand for representation in the State Level Media Certification & Monitoring Cell to the Chief Electoral Officer, a file was processed by the CEO’s office alongwith the approval of the ECI for inducting a senior member of the state media in the State Level Media Certification & Monitoring Cell. However, the file could not find its way out bureaucratic Chakrabhyu of SLMCMC.

Having said this, we would like to ask the Election Commission once again to review its decision not to conduct repoll in polling stations where cases of proxy voting has been detected, in public interest and for the cause of a free and fair election. If not, the Election must spell out its reasons for taking such a decision, publicly.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2012/02/the-repoll-that-never-came/

Legendry Hero of Manipur in Peace and War: Major Ralengnao (Bob) Khathing, Padma Shri, MC, MBE

By RS Jassal On need not associate Manipur with insurgency and connected problems always. There… more »

By RS Jassal
On need not associate Manipur with insurgency and connected problems always. There are many brighter sides too which far outweigh these. As a Manipuri it was really heartening for me to know that when it comes to gallantry acts for national cause, our contribution can equal that of any other state of India. We have produced great heroes who have done the Armed forces of our nation, really proud. The first among such heroes who comes to my mind and who in fact attained legendary status in the annals of Manipur history is Major Bob Khathing.

Born at Ukhrul on Feb 8th, 1912, into a well-educated Tangkhul family, he received his primary education at Ukhrul. He joined Kangpokpi Mission ME School for class VI. Mind you he had to walk from home all the way to Imphal and then to Kangpokpi (73 miles). He was the only one who got through the class VI examination is also another wonder. His devotion to loving parents was revealed at that young age, when the scholarship amount, which he had received from Rev Pettigrew for passing class VI exam, was handed over intact to his mother. He passed matric from Johnstone High School, Imphal which then used to be affiliated to Sylhet University and did his graduation from Calcutta University (Bishop Cotton College, Guwahati) and became the first graduate among the hill peoples in Manipur, to do so.

He was very good at sports and in extracurricular activities. In May 1941, he got King’s commission in the Army.

After passing out from the Officer’s Training School, he was Commissioned into 19th Hyderabad Regt and posted to the Regimental Training Centre at Agra, where he served under then Major Thimmaya (who later became Chief of Army Staff). Soon thereafter, he was asked to report to GR Force, Jorhat. By that time the Japanese had just overrun  Burma and the Allied Troops were withdrawing to Tactical defensive positions into Manipur. He was then instructed to recruit volunteers from the hill peoples bordering Burma, to reinforce the ‘V’ force, as informers & guides. He was promoted as a local Captain, reported to the officer in charge of Manipur Sector of ‘V’ Force Maj E Murray of 4 Assam Rifles. Thus some selected personnel of the Assam Rifles also formed part of the ‘V’ force i.e. Victory Force.

Capt Khathing put his heart and mind to the job at hand. He went to Ukhrul, met some Tangkhul headmen & elders & explained his mission. He then recruited about 5000 men for the ‘V’ force from Bungpa area, where refugees were pouring in from Burma into Tangkhul areas. Thereafter, he established another base HQ in Southern Manipur at Chakpikarong and covered the whole Kabaw valley, ultimately shifting his HQ to Sunle in Kabaw valley itself, to be able to control all villages in South East Manipur including the Kabaw valley. When Japanese forces overran Shangshak & Ukhrul areas, he was called to Tangkhul area to guide the British Army to counter the Japanese. He, alongwith his ‘V’ Force personnel effectively mobilized the Tangkhul leaders who wonderfully united and organized intelligence set up, passing information of Japanese movements to the Allied forces. Thanks to their efforts, the Japanese Force could be quickly driven away from Tangkhul soil. Even after victory, bulks of volunteers were converted to VVF-a force which worked wonderfully well even after Independence of India. His vision in V force, created a success story, which he used to organise, VG’s in Mon – Tuensang-Kiphire area of NHTA, in  his latter career as Political Officer. Real voluntary services to reckon with, these were the persons who had strands of nationalism of India’s pride and honour running through their veins, & their yeomen service will always be exhort ion call to the new generations to come.

In the course of only three years in the battlefield i.e. May 1942 to May 1945, Major Khathing was awarded the most coveted awards like MBE (Member of the order of the British Empire), Commander-in-Chief Gallantry Certificate, twice, Mentioned-in-Dispatches, and M.C (Military-  Cross) which speak volumes about military acumen ingrained in him as a sturdy Tangkhul Naga. (Refer remarks Nari Rustomji in his book ‘Enchanted Frontiers’).

On disbandment of ‘V’ force in June 1945, he was posted to 3rd Bn, the Assam Regt. At this time, the Maharaja of Manipur was setting up a Democratic Constitution on Manipur. On being persistently requested, by his closest associate and friend from the soil, MKPB Singh (also of the Assam Regt), who became CM, Major Khathing resigned his commission, and joined the Interim Government of Manipur State as the Minister in charge of Hills Administration in Oct 1947.

When regular elections were to take place, despite requests to contest from a Tangkhul constituency, Maj Khathing stood from Saikul Sadar Hills where there were Tangkhuls, Kukis, Gurkhas, Mayangs, as well and Saitu and Kangpokpi were the  part of Saikul. He was comfortably returned. This amply showed that Major Khathing was a hero not only as an Army officer, but also as a Politico-Administrator carrying mass appeal. He was not biased towards any community, possessed bubbling passion to   work for the people of entire Manipur as a true nationalist. This made MKPB Singh and Khathing lifelong friends, which reflected hill valley unity in this duo consequent to merger of Manipur into India, in May, 1950, Major Khathing joined 2 Assam Rifles as an Assistant Commandant at Sadiya, as an interim arrangement since Govt. of India was planning to introduce a new set of administrators for areas under NE Frontiers Administration then under Ministry of External Affairs, as  areas of Mon Tuensang were also part of NEFA till Naga Hills were merged with Tuensang area as NHTA. The first batch was of star personalities like Nari Rustomji, L. Kampani, TC Hazarika, T Aliba Imiti, Bob Khathing, and RK Madhurjit. Bob was thus absorbed into NEFA services as an Asst Political Officer which entailed days together of foot slogging to open new adm posts in the interiors of NEFA. It amply demonstrated that he was still a staunch soldier at heart, on 15 August 1950. While leading a special Recce Patrol to Tibet-China border in Rima area, his team was at Minzong staging camp before Chingwinti Outpost of Assam Rifles, that a severe earthquake occurred. Their staging huts collapsed and their reserve rations, destroyed wireless sets damaged. All the Mishmi porters ran away to their villages, leaving only 20 personnel’s, i.e., 3 Officers and 17 Jawans of Assam Rifles including Kumaon Regt. With the meager strength and depleted resources and rations, Maj Ralengnao Khathing and his team, faced the calamity head-on. They organized road restoring groups, rendered relief to the Mishmi villagers and arranged for airdrop of rations for the Assam Rifles posts, as well as for the villagers.

As Asst. Pol. officer he was stationed at Bomdila. Taiwang was closer to Bomdila adm base than Lhasa (Tibet). The local authorities approached him to include their area with Bomdila due to geographical proximity considering Bumla Pass. Assam Rifles escorts, RS 62 were used by him to reach .He sent wireless message for Shillong MEA to permit him to do, so.  Delhi not being sure about the authenticity of McMahon Line, asked him to wait to avoid international repercussions. Local leaders from Tawang were getting restless and were persisting him to open the outpost as part of India, he judging Delhi may not say yes fast, ordered AR operator to switch off the set on the plea of weather interference. He feigned as message not received. He hoisted the Indian national flag and Tawang with area home side of Bumla Pass were added into Indian Territories. He stayed there for 10-15 days after hoisting the flag and intimated his head office at Shillong. Everything went off well but his honor of Padmashri was delayed to be conferred till 1957

In Dec 1957, Major Khathing was posted to Mokokchung, Naga Hills as the first Deputy Commissioner of Mokokchung District, on up gradation of SDO office. He attended National Defence College at New Delhi from July 1961 to April 1962. Passing out from the NDC, he was deputed to the Sikkim Govt as Development Commissioner of the State.

In 1962, the Chinese troops occupied the border area of NEFA including Tawang, Bomdila, Sela. He at once sent an express telegram to the External Affairs Ministry, New Delhi, to pull him out from Sikkim and be sent back to NEFA to work with the people he loved most under those times of trial. He promptly received the order to report to HQ 4 Corps, Tezpur, which he did. He then worked round the clock to rehabilitate NEFA people and to restore civil administration. To have better co-ordination between Army and civil authorities, his post was re-designated as the Security Commissioner, NEFA and he served at Tezpur from Nov 1962 to Jan 1967 in the said post. From there he rose to the position of the Chief Secretary, Nagaland, the first Naga officer to occupy that privileged post.

Khathing was due to retire on superannuation by the end of Feb 1972, when he got a message from the Ministry of External Affairs, New Delhi that he was being considered to be the Ambassador of India to Burma. He agreed and joined at Rangoon as the Ambassador of India in 1972. After his retirement, Mr. Khathing also served the Govt. of Manipur in an honorary capacity, as the chairman of the Tribal Law Commission; and again as the chairman of Administrative Reforms Commission. He also served the Nagaland Govt. as the Chairman of the Re-Organisation of the Administrative Centers, etc. He was also appointed Advisor to the Govt. of Manipur in 1980, when Manipur was placed under Presidential Rule for a brief period.

He was pioneer proponent with other IFAS officers to site twelve ALG (Air Landing Grounds) like Mohanbari. Lekhabali, Daporijo, Ziro, and so on.  In forward policy all AR posts were pushed to function as close as possible to IB with Tibet & Myanmar and air maintenance of posts were resorted to.  Air maintenance continued as late as 1980s -1982 to outposts which could not be connected by surface means Porter system to carry official’s luggage & supplies of critical items was introduced. It pleased the locals to get hard cash in lieu of man services so provided to the Assam Rifles & civi-adm which made Assam Rifles  considered as part of Administration’s machinery & not as defence force in academicals sense. This and much more close tripartite inter dependence of tribal’s, civil adm & AR Force earned the Force a phrase from Verrier Elwin as follows: “Friends of the Hill people” and ‘pioneer of every advance into the interiors’ Major Bob Khating could afford aristocratic life style, however, he chose to be a soldier while being with the troops and in his day to day life he continued to remain and live like a commoner. That gave him the capability to adapt and understand the ground situations far better than any other administrative officer of his times.

Some high points & psychic ethos about his personality known to me as I served long periods in Nagaland & Arunachal and my personal interaction with  him,  I quote from my memory:

• He was very fond of the Assam Rifles troops & specially the Pipe Band. On any party which he attended, used to call for a bottle of XXX Rum & present to the Band Master without fail.

• At Tezpur, once he was admitted in MH for treatment & rest for some time. His subordinates & colleagues calling on him used to ask ‘anything required sir!’ he whispered once to his close friend, my rum is coming to finish so just replenish in next visit.  He reminded him ‘sir, Doctor has asked you to avoid.’ He smilingly said ‘I did not tell you to tell the doctor’. Then he pointed to the cupboard and small bottle with enamel mug hidden which put the visitor to cheers

• Tea with AR Jawans he used to always use  enamel mug.

• Stubborn UG cadres when using village precincts to ambush AR/ ARMY/CIVIL dignitaries, he issued Govt. of Nagaland order “whenever such incidents take place, the village authorities will be penalized to open a post for SF’s minimum for one month & maximum for six months depending on the gravity of ambush/ damage caused on state/ central forces. It worked well and incidents came down considerably.

• He was the Govt. rep  to finalize 16 Point Agreement & this signatory and Nagaland was created as 16th  State of India.

This adroit, assiduous, determined war hero, clean humanitarian administrator and dedicated teacher, all rolled into one and most importantly, a father figure to all Manipuri’s, hills & valley alike bid adieu to this world on 14 Jan 1990 at Imphal. His death moments also convey a great message  of friendship with MKPB Singh. It is learnt that Bob was to go to Maharaj Kumar’s house to meet him. He felt uncomfortable and could not proceed. Maharaj Kumar did not know about his intent and decided to go to Mantripukhri to meet Bob. Bob developed further complicacy and while talking to PB Singh, he collapsed into his arms and breathed his last, both friends again together at the last moment. Let’s pay tribute to this hero of India who hails from our own land and who continues to be a real source of inspiration to the many youngsters who aspire to join the Indian Defence Forces. Would the Govt of Manipur think of dedicating some road or erecting a statue to commemorate his precious service, to the state & Indian Nation?. Jai Hind my Bob ! my Manipur.

Author learns from Assam Rifles Authorities that yearly Football tournament in memory of Late Bob will be commenced soon. A real fit  tribute. Long live Bob ! And Assam Rifles from 28 Feb, 2012

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2012/02/legendry-hero-of-manipur-in-peace-and-war-major-ralengnao-bob-khathing-padma-shri-mc-mbe/

State to join Feb 28 nation-wide strike

IMPHAL, Feb 26: After a lull in disruptions to the normal life of the people… more »

IMPHAL, Feb 26: After a lull in disruptions to the normal life of the people and the state’s economy, the coordinating body of trade unions in Manipur has extended its support to the call for a nationwide dawn to dusk general strike on Feb 28. The announcement was made today at the office of CPI by the convenor of the coordinating body of trade unions, Laishram Sotin, who stated that the general strike will also be carried out in the state from 6.00 am to 6.00 pm.

The nationwide general strike is unprecedented in size and reach with almost all registered and unrecognized trade unions in India, cutting across ideological and political affiliations, have come together to press for a charter of demands. The timing of the general strike coincides with the budget session in parliament. In Manipur, the trade unions that have joined hands are AITUC, CITU, UTUC, TUCC, INTUC, BMS and HMS.

The list of demands include reining in price rise, combating corruption, strict enforcement of all basic labour laws without any exception or exemption and stringent punitive measures for violation, government aid for the creation of national social security fund for unorganized sector workers, removal of all ceilings on payment and eligibility of bonus, provident fund, increasing the quantum of gratuity and assured pension for all (including the private sector), workers under the centrally sponsored flagship programs must be given minimum wage and honorarium among others.

The convenor of the trade union body in Manipur, Laishram Sotin stated that the general strike will cover banks, central and state government offices, airport, businesses and market places, all modes of public transportation and railway office. He further stated that all muster roll, casual and contract workers in the state must join the strike. However, he clarified that the on going examinations are precluded from the purview of the general strike.

In a scathing attack on the government, he lamented the death kneel that all government undertakings have faced like MSRTC, cement factory, sugar mills, cycle corporation, drug and pharmaceutical corporation, etc.

The trade union bodies in Manipur have also demanded repeal of AFSPA, completion of all highway projects and instituting highway protection force, providing employment opportunities for the youths and free education to students.

In a related development, the Union Labour and Employment Minister, Mallikarjun Kharge has appealed to the trade unions to desist from the countrywide general strike. Also Chief Minister of West Bengal, Mamata Banaerjee as well the Congress party has decided to oppose the general strike.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2012/02/state-to-join-feb-28-nationwide-strike/

Cops gun down suspected ultra

IMPHAL, Feb 26:  A person suspected to be an underground cadre was shot dead in… more »

IMPHAL, Feb 26:  A person suspected to be an underground cadre was shot dead in an encounter with security personnel which took place at Canchipur area near Standard Robert English School, Imphal West today at about 4.48 pm.

According to police sources, two youths fired upon security personnel at Canchipur area and sped away from the spot. They were chased after by Imphal West commandos and 28 AR personnel. Later, the security forces caught up with the escapees and later exchanged several rounds of gunfire. Afterwards, the pillion rider of the two wheeler, a Honda active (MNOI/L-9365) escaped from the spot whereas the driver was shot dead. The vehicle was found riddled with bullets and a 9mm pistol was found in the possession of the deceased. The identity of the slain person is yet to be established and has been kept at RIMS morgue.

In the meantime, four persons having link with proscribed organizations were arrested by security personnel since yesterday and recovered arms and incriminating documents.

Today, a team of 9 AR launched a search operation at Moreh ward no. 9 and apprehended a UNLF cadre, s/s corporal B Murugan, 22, son of CN Balu of Moreh ward no. 2. A US-made 9mm pistol with five live rounds were recovered from him. He had been handed over to Imphal police station.

In a joint operation, a team of 33 AR and Bishenpur district commando today apprehended an overground worked of KYKL, Moirangthem Oken, son of Chaoba, 43, of Kumbi Khuga Wangame from Loktak lake area. He has reportedly been handed over to Bishenpur police station.

In a separate incident, a combined team of 22 Assam Rifles and Imphal East commandos launched a drive after receiving information regarding extortion activities in Monbong village, Jiribam and apprehended two UTLA cadres. The AR release stated that the cadres were in possession of extortion notes, receipts and rubber stamps belong to KTLA. The arrested cadres have been identified as Thenhen Haokip of Lalpani, Joakipunji of Cachar district of Assam and s/s sergeant major Laljui Neihsial, 19, son of Suta of Kaimai of Tamenglong. They have been reportedly handed over to Jiribam police station.

On the other hand, Imphal East district police under the supervision of additional SP (ops) conducted raids at Loushangkhong, Heikak Mapal and Napet Palli since February 24 and arrested two persons involved in the abduction of a non-Manipuri Tej Narayan Yadav of Bihar and at present residing at Singjubung Leirak on February 18. They are the driver who was at the wheel of the runaway car, Salam Kumar, 38, son of late S Nandababu of Loushangkhong Mayai Leikai and Moirangthem Ranajit Meitei alias Abungcha Meitei, 25, son of M Tombi Meitei from Uyumpok Wakhon, says a police source. It added that Ranajit has been absconding after an encounter with a combined police team at Chanung hillock on February 21 where Narayan was rescued. The vehicle used in the abduction has also been seized. 

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2012/02/cops-gun-down-suspected-ultra/

MEELAL

IMPHAL, Feb 26: In continuation of its drive against the use of scripts other than… more »

IMPHAL, Feb 26: In continuation of its drive against the use of scripts other than Meitei Mayek in all public banners, signboards, cash memos, etc, MEELAL confiscated banners of two stalls in the ongoing Translation Festival at Iboyaima Shangalen, Palace Compound. They then burned the banners in protest in front of its office. Talking to this reporter, MEELAL Organisation Secy. Thoukaba Meitei warned that they will no issue prior warning to people to fail to comply with their directive and instead take direct action. He further declared that all events and functions at the Translation Festival are banned until the organizers clarify its position to MEELAL.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2012/02/meelal/

RPF President statement on Ind Demand Day-III – E-Pao.net

RPF President statement on Ind Demand Day-IIIE-Pao.netIndia would face similar situation in its war with Manipur and it would be ultimately constrained to vacate Manipur. Reposing full faith in the activities of CorCom which was set up by seven revolut…

RPF President statement on Ind Demand Day-III
E-Pao.net
India would face similar situation in its war with Manipur and it would be ultimately constrained to vacate Manipur. Reposing full faith in the activities of CorCom which was set up by seven revolutionary groups having similar principles and objectives
`RPF endorses Corcom in the fight against Indian government`KanglaOnline

all 7 news articles »

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CORE urges Govt for revival of MHRC – E-Pao.net

CORE urges Govt for revival of MHRCE-Pao.netImphal, February 26 2012: The Centre for Organisation Research and Education (CORE) has expressed its deepest concern regarding prolonged non-functioning of the Manipur Human Rights Commission (MHRC), a statu…

CORE urges Govt for revival of MHRC
E-Pao.net
Imphal, February 26 2012: The Centre for Organisation Research and Education (CORE) has expressed its deepest concern regarding prolonged non-functioning of the Manipur Human Rights Commission (MHRC), a statutory body for the protection and promotion

Read more / Original news source: http://news.google.com/news/url?sa=t&fd=R&usg=AFQjCNGJaL73nhUqcA-W91iAiiBadn4PkQ&url=http://e-pao.net/ge.asp?heading=17&src=270212

Scripting a farce that is Manipur – E-Pao.net

Scripting a farce that is ManipurE-Pao.netAdd the mushrooming number of armed groups, all masquerading as sons of the soil who have taken upon themselves the onerous task of defining what is patriotism and what is not and Manipur fits the bill of a pla…

Scripting a farce that is Manipur
E-Pao.net
Add the mushrooming number of armed groups, all masquerading as sons of the soil who have taken upon themselves the onerous task of defining what is patriotism and what is not and Manipur fits the bill of a place where jokers prosper and where the

Read more / Original news source: http://news.google.com/news/url?sa=t&fd=R&usg=AFQjCNHEG883w07EpquB_MlTp8x7m_vg2A&url=http://e-pao.net/epSubPageSelector.asp?src=Scripting_a_farce_that_is_Manipur_Fertile_soil_for_jokers_TSE_20120227&ch=news_section&sub1=editorial&sub2=editorial_2012

Manipur non-Cong parties to meet ECI officials – Nagaland Post

Manipur non-Cong parties to meet ECI officialsNagaland PostA 10-member delegation of non-Congress political parties Sunday left Imphal for New Delhi to meet the chief Election Commissioner and press him to take a final decision on malpractices detected…

Manipur non-Cong parties to meet ECI officials
Nagaland Post
A 10-member delegation of non-Congress political parties Sunday left Imphal for New Delhi to meet the chief Election Commissioner and press him to take a final decision on malpractices detected in the January 28 election to the Manipur Assembly.
Joint team to meet ECI officialsE-Pao.net

all 5 news articles »

Read more / Original news source: http://news.google.com/news/url?sa=t&fd=R&usg=AFQjCNG8TOJC0Yc9PG80127z7LgAYELuiw&url=http://www.nagalandpost.com/ChannelNews/Regional/RegionalNews.aspx?news=TkVXUzEwMDAxNDMwOA%253D%253D-vdo%252BxY7GrG4%253D