Tag: IFP

By A Staff Reporter

IMPHAL | Sept 14

Former chief minister of Manipur Okram Ibobi Singh today reiterated that he is ready to accept any form of punishment if proven guilty of misappropriation of public money as charged.

Ibobi was addressing a gathering during a one day district level political workers’ conference of the Congress party at the community hall at Peace Ground, Churachandpur.

The conference organised by the district Congress committee was attended former deputy chief minister, Gaikhangam, MPCC president T. N. Haokip, Lok Sabha MP Thangso Baite, Congress legislators including Sagolband MLA RK. Imo Singh, Tipaikmukh MLA Dr. Chaltonlien Amo, Karong MLA D. D. Thaisii, DCC members and party workers from across the district.

Questioning the feasibilities of packages announced by the BJP-led government, Ibobi suggested the ruling party that it would not be wise to “fool the people.”

Reacting to the recent announcement of chief minister N. Biren to set up medical college in Churachandpur district, he questioned whether the present government indeed has sent a proposal to the Medical Council of India (MCI).

There are certain norms for setting up of a medical college ranging from infrastructure to man-power and land, he illuminated and added that without fulfilling these first, getting approval from the MCI is virtually impossible.

Nevertheless, he assured to extend full co-operation to the ruling party if the promises made by the BJP were genuine so that the people reap the full benefit of the schemes.

He claimed that most of the projects and schemes which the BJP is claiming to be their architect were legacies of Congress government.

He questioned the commitment of the Union ministers of the BJP citing the failure of them (ministers) to announce a single package for the state or any of the districts despite their frequent visits.

Many Congress legislators who spoke during the event lambasted the highhandedness and intolerance of the BJP.

Former deputy chief minister, Gaikhangam said the BJP gives more respect to cows than humans and that it has now invaded the people’s kitchen.

He said that the claim made by the BJP that it has achieved more within few months of the then Congress government in 15 years is nothing but a “reckless statement.”

“We welcome change but in a positive way not destructive”, said Gaikhangam.

According to MPCC president Haokip, Modi will trip over in his own false promises made to the people and asked the people to be patient.

Citing the prevailing situation of the nation, Haokip contended that every initiative that Modi claimed would deliver a great deal has backfired.

“Agriculture sector has failed, economy is plunging towards downwards. The demonetisation has achieved nothing”, he said.

1. Thaisii and Thangso Baite, also rued the religious intolerance and imposition on culture and food habits of others by the BJP appealing to the people to vote for a party which serves the best interest of the nation.

The conference was marked by cultural extravaganza and speeches from other prominent Congress leader of the district.

By A Staff Reporter

IMPHAL | Sept 14

Anti-Ithai barrage and Loktak project activists today organised a rally cum public meeting demanding decommissioning of the barrage and Loktak multipurpose project was held today at Sekmaijin community hall.

The public meeting recommended urging the state and central government to decommission Ithai barrage and Loktak multipurpose project for causing huge hardships to the innocent people due submergence of more than 83,500 hectares of land and extinction of flora and fauna including disturbing bio-diversity.

The recommendation also urged National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC) to compensate more than 3 lakhs affected people.

The meeting further recommended that the state and central government should investigate and punish NHPC for commissioning Ithai barrage and Loktak multipurpose project without any MOU, improper formalities and for not taking the consent of to the people as well as from the state.

Students of Merciful English School (MES) marched a peace rally from the school campus to the community hall of Sekmaijin. Students took part in the rally by holding placards “save our agricultural land, save our livelihood”, “respect indigenous people’s right”, “go back NHPC”.

Speaking to media, president of Integrated Rural Development (IRDA), Islammudin said Loktak is one of the biggest fresh water lakes in the entire northeast. From the lake many people are earning their livelihood. But since the commission of Ithai barrage and Loktak multipurpose project people living in the surrounding are facing many hardship problems, he added.

Islammudin said with the commissioning of the project not only affected Loktak lake but also affected the surrounding smaller lakes like Ekok, Phumlen, Khomlung lake and other water bodies indirectly. Even the flora and fauna are becoming extinct.

The problems can be solved if Ithai barrage and Loktal multipurpose project is decommissioned, he said.

IMPHAL | Sept 14

Secretary of Indian Medical Association (IMA) state branch, Dr. Sachindra Laishram clarified that one Khundrakpam Babina is not related with IMA.

Speaking to media persons Sachindra said on Tuesday a complaint was received at the office of IMA stating that a woman, who identified herself as Khundrakpam Babina of Sagolband Tera Lukram Leirak and an assistant officer medicine, is collecting money from the common people for issuing health insurance cards.

Sachindra said Babina used to collect a sum of Rs. 100 per person in the name of health insurance or health card. She made the people to sign at a form after filling their details along with a photocopy of AADHAR card. She used ASHA workers of the respective areas to collect the sum.

He said according to Babina, the health card will be posted at home from the post office, and if one does not get the card, they can collect the cards from the office of Indian Medical Association, state branch, located at Lamphel.

ASHA workers have almost collected the entire amount but before they handed over the money, some workers came to IMA office and inquired about Babina as if she is genuine. According to the ASHA workers, Babina instructed the workers of Mayang Imphal and Wangjing areas to collect the money for health insurance, Sachindra added.

He said Indian Medical Association Manipur, state branch, is not involved in issuing any health insurance or card. “If any individual is using the name of IMA for issuing such cards is not related to us” he said. There is no office of any association called “Medical Association of Central Government” at IMA office complex, Lamplelpat, Sachindra added.

By A Correspondent 

IMPHAL | Sept 14

A youth from Manipur, identified as Pravish Chanam (22) son of Ch. Jugindro of Uripok Achom Leikai who had been missing for the last five days at Noida was found cremated by authority of Dr. BR Ambedkar hospital in Noida.

It is learned that the hospital authority had cremated the body of Pravish without informing any family members despite a missing report being filed to the police.

In this regard, the victim family had called on the chief minister, N. Biren this evening and apprised him of the case. N. Biren assured that he will inform the Home ministry and other authority concerned to find out the truth behind the mysterious death.

It may be recalled that Pravish had gone to Delhi on September 7 and stayed at his friend Ashok Thounaojam’s Safdarjung residence. The following day in the evening, Pravish went to attend a musical concert at Noida.

Pravish and his friends including Ashok Thounaojam along with two others had gone to attend the concert.

Later, around 9.30 pm, Ashok and his friends found that Pravish was missing and accordingly his elder brother Ravikanta Chanam was notified following which a missing report was filed at Knowledge Park police station at Gautam Budh district of Uttar Pradesh on September 9.

Meanwhile, the post-mortem report conducted on September 11, read Pravish died of “haemorrhage and head injuries.”The report also said that the time of death is “2 to 3 days” ago.

CCTV footages of the hospital showed a dizzy and a slightly abnormal Pravish being brought into the hospital at around 10.30 pm of September 8, said his elder brother Ravikanta.

He was later seen going outside the hospital the next day in the morning, September 9.

On the other hand, North East Forum for International Solidarity (NEFIS) Convenor Khumukcham Chinglen, who voluntarily had been searching for Pravish for the last five days with family members of the victim said it was found that Pravish was admitted to the hospital by one Dr. Amit, who is yet to be identified.

However, the hospital refused to show any medical documents about the admission of Pravish, said NEFIS convenor Chinglen, adding police personnel located opposite the hospital refused to cooperate when friends of the deceased searched the site by distributing photos of the deceased.

He further said according to police, a call was received by the police in the early morning about the presence of an injured person on September 9 itself and then took the body to the hospital.

IMPHAL | Sept 14

Patanjali Ayurved Limited may soon provide a global market for the black rice (Chak-hao) grown in Manipur and other horticulture products of the State. A delegation led by Acharya Balkrishna, managing director of Patanjali Food was accorded warm welcome on his maiden visit to Imphal today. 

Th. Shyamkumar, horticulture and soil conservation minister, J. Suresh Babu, additional chief secretary (Horticulture and Soil Conservation), K. Kipgen, director horticulture and soil conservation along with department officials and State Patanjali members received Balkrishan at the airport.

Later at Hotel Classic Grande, Chingmeirong, a presentation was given by director K. Kipgen on the points – key herbs, seasons, area of cultivation and prices of the herbs cultivated in the State and why Manipur is favourable for pineapple juice plant.

Th Shyamkumar, speaking at the gathering, expressed happiness over the maiden visit of Balkrishna in the State. Stating that the Manipur is abundant in Horticulture products like ginger, black rice, turmeric, pineapple, he appealed to the Patanjali team to buy products from the State and ensured that the faithful farmers of the State are ready to supply the required amount.

He appealed to the Patanjali team to help in promoting products of the State as there is no market.

In his presentation, K. Kipgen said that by default organic cultivation of pineapple is done in the State and it is famous for its high quality of juice content. He said the State is able to produce 1, 28,361 metric tonnes (MT) of pineapple.

In the coming years, the Horticulture Department is setting a target to take new plantation area of pineapple to over 1200 hectare under CSS-MIDH Scheme and another 600 hectare will be added under Central Scheme of MOVCD-NER. Key producing cluster in the State are Andro, Thayong, Waithou, Chiru, Thiyam, Konjin in Imphal East district, Salungpham, Tairenbikhok, Saram, Poirou Tangkhul in Thoubal and Khousabung in Churachandpur.

Suresh Babu who also spoke on the occasion said the first priority will be given to local products which can be processed in the State. Secondly the products which cannot be processed here can be taken to Patanjali and other nearest processing units.

Suresh Babu said it is time that the local products are given value addition, processed here and also exported in South East Asia through Imphal-Moreh National Highway which is also the Trans Asian Highway No. 1.

Stating that the State’s biggest challenge is the lack of storage and transportation, Suresh Babu said that about 20-25 percent of perishable agricultural products are wasted due to lack of storage facility which he termed as “unwanted situation”. He said in case a unit comes up in the State, we need to ensure that farmers are able to supply the required products.

Acharya Balkrishna said that despite the abundance of natural products, the State and the farmers are not receiving full benefits due to long distance from the mainland India. He said that, Patanjali will help in taking the products of the State to the corners of the world and will fully cooperate in making the dreams of the Horticulture Department come true.

Later, minister Th. Shyamkumar along with Acharya Balkrishna and Patanjali team went to look for sites for medicinal plant and pineapple juice extraction plant at Andro, Thoubal and Muirei village in Ukhrul district.

By A Staff Reporter

IMPHAL | Sept 14

Deputy chief minister, Y. Joykumar said that the most important aspect of the medical profession is to follow the ethics of the profession.

He was delivering the chief guest speech today at the observation of the 46th foundation day of Regional Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS) at RIMS jubilee hall, Lamphel.

The deputy chief minister said that RIMS as one of the best healthcare institutes in the country and most of the professionals who has passed out from this institute got high position jobs in various departments and are serving the nation with great dedication.

He claimed that the institute is way ahead from other medical colleges across the county as an undergoing MBBS student in RIMS can attend a patient with full confidence but on the other hand an MBBS student passed out from other institution does not have the confidence to attend a patient.

Stating that majority of the people of the state depends on government hospitals for treatment as treating in private hospitals is costly Joykumar asked the staffs of RIMS to treat the patients with dedication and care.

The deputy chief minister said that the government will extend its support to improve the infrastructure and man power of the institute to make it one of the best health care institutes.

The president of the function Rajya Sabha MP, Ksh. Bhabananda said that as RIMS is the premier healthcare sector in the North East, the institute plays an important role in uplifting the health sector not only for the state but also for the whole North East region.

Stating that health and education are one of the most important sectors as it plays a big role in bringing development of the society he assured that he will take up the issue of lack of infrastructures of RIMS to the central government to make it as one of the best healthcare institutes.

Gold medals and certificates were distributed to meritorious students and a journal of RIMS Medical Society was released.

The function was attended by RIMS former associate professor, Dr. E. Nandini Devi, RIMS director, A. Santa, RIMS medical superintendent, Ch. Arunkumar, RIMS professor, Kh. Krishna Pramodini as guests of honour.

IMPHAL | Sept 14

The Coordinating Body of Trade Unions, Manipur (CBTUM) today discussed strategies to deal with the new economic reforms of the central government at Manipur Press Club, Majorkhul. Chairman of CBTUM, L. Sotinkumar said the neo liberal economic policy of Narendra Modi government has changed the system of economy and the lower sections of the population are in the receiving end.

The GST tax reforms, new labour policies, plan to privatise all banks among others have direct or indirect effect especially to the workers.

He added that the meeting condemned the economic reforms brought by the Modi led government in the country. Workers will launch different kinds of agitation countrywide, he announced.

In the joint meeting of all workers from different departments like banks, home guards, traders, Sotin announced that starting with conventions and leaflet and poster campaigns, agitations will be launched in front of Parliament in New Delhi from November 9-11.

He further noted that Manipur’s workers will also take part in that agitation on November 9.

The function was attended by president of All India Trade Union Congress, Manipur, Moirangthem Nara Singh, L. Purojit Singh general secretary of MGEF, Rajen Singh, president of MGEF, Kshetrimayum Santa, president of Trade Union Coordination Centre, Manipur, bank employees representative, Chanungbam Lilabanta and president of home guard association, Y. Mangi as presidium members.

IMPHAL | Sept 14

Chief minister, N. Biren Singh assessed various development projects being taken up in Ukhrul and Kamjong districts in a marathon review meeting held at the CM’s Secretariat today.

Speaking at the meeting, the chief minister cautioned the officials not to take the decisions taken in the meeting for granted. He asked them to invest maximum effort to translate the decisions into action within the stipulated time.

He also instructed the DCs to monitor all the developmental works being taken up in their respective districts and forward the progress of the works with the names of work agencies and latest photographs to him on weekly basis.

He directed the district level officers to inform the inadequacies and grievances by directly writing to the Administrative Secretary concerned through the DC concerned immediately.

Further N. Biren continued that the State revenue department must be the sole authority to initiate necessary procedures for the creation of new revenue villages. 

However, approval of the State Cabinet must be made mandatory to create any new revenue village, the chief minister said while instructing the chief secretary to issue an official order regarding the matter.

Regarding the present status of roads and other projects being taken up in the district under PWD, another review meeting will be held at the CM’s Secretariat on September 23.

 In view of the grim situation of power supply in Kamjong district, the Chief Minister instructed the chief secretary to convene a special meeting with the officials concerned to enhance the power situation in the district.

He also directed to accelerate distribution of LED bulbs under Ujala Yojana in the two districts.

 The chief minister also asked Ukhrul DC to initiate necessary measures regarding forest conservation at water sources like Shirui and other places in consultation with local MLAs, CVO leaders and villagers to enable sustainable tapping of water.

He also asked the DC and PHED officials to take up necessary steps to commission water supply scheme at Kamjong in consultation with the local MLA at the earliest.

 He also instructed the PHED officials to construct a bore well each at the compounds of Pettigrew college and district hospital.

Biren said that necessary fund would be released as soon as possible to complete the district sports complex, Ukhrul before Christmas.

The chief minister further said that necessary funds would be provided through State home department to accelerate the pace of Aadhar enrolment.

He also gave strict instruction to the officials and agency concerned to achieve 100 per cent enrolment by November end this year.

The chief minister also instructed the director of CAF and PD to prepare proposals for the construction of godowns in the hill districts where there are no food godowns of the State government.

1. Biren also instructed Kamjong SP to prepare a report on the requirements of the district police in consultation with the DC and submit it to the additional chief secretary (Home).

Ukhrul DC, Harmit Singh Pahuja and Kamjong DC, Kengoo Zuringla made a detailed PowerPoint presentation on the status and action plan of various developmental activities of the two districts.

The meeting which began at 10 am and continued till 1:45 pm was attended by Chingai A/C MLA and parliamentary secretary (Transport and Planning) Khashim Vashum, Ukhrul A/C MLA, Alfred K. Arthur, chief secretary, R.R. Rashmi, administrative secretaries, DCs of Ukhrul and Kamjong districts, Kamjong SP, head of departments and other officials concerned.

IMPHAL | SEP 14 (NNN)

In an effort to strengthen the ongoing movement against the new districts created by the then Congress led government, Nagas including village chiefs today conglomerated at Kanglatongbi and held consultation on the matter.

After a day-long consultation an ‘Adhoc Committee’ was formed to carry out wide contact campaigns in order to further hold bigger consultative meetings where all the ‘adversely’ affected people by the new districts will be participated and to take future course of action.

Today‘s consultative meeting strongly condemned the creation of new districts by the previous state government. The programme was organised by Tangkhul Naga Aze Longphang or Southern Tangkhul Naga Union, Manipur. The organisers said that they were doing this in understanding with the United Naga Council (UNC).

Senior advocate Daniel Ramsan and Southern Tangkhul Naga Union advisor Vareso Ningshen attended as resource persons.

After deliberate discussions, the participants reaffirmed to stand united to counter the state governments’ intentions and policies to “grab the land of the Nagas”.

Vareso said, “On understanding the rights of the land and knowing the fact that new districts creation is illegal it is our responsibility to understand the constitutional rights and law before it is too late”.

Vareso also said that Nagas should “foresee our future while understanding the current situation and issues”.

Further he told the gathering that it is “our duty and responsibility to disseminate our issues, rights and grievances to the governor so that our issues can be addressed”.

According to him, in hill areas, the 6th Schedule of Autonomous District Council is applicable under section 3(1) (d) of the District Council Act 1972. In order to create new districts in the hills whether for district administrative convenience, 6th schedules should be applied, he added.

He continued land holding system is bound by the customary law in the hills under the provision of Autonomous Hills Districts Council Act, 1972. He also recalled that several MoUs have been signed with the Naga representatives and Government of Manipur on creation of new districts in the naga inhabitated areas. On violation all such MoUs the government created the district, he claimed.

Vareso observed that when MLR and LR Act is enforced in the hill areas, the land holding laws (customary law) and chieftainships will be definitely overside.

Also speaking on the occasion as a resource person, advocate Daniel Ramsan said that Manipur has been functioning in two assemblies – the Manipur Legislative Assembly and Hill Areas Committee (HAC).  He said that hill related problems should be addressed in the HAC, he said.

Under section 3 of the District Council Act, 1972 “there should be only six districts”, he pointed out. Land is the end of everything, Daniel Ramsan added.

After considering from the resource persons and speakers, they resolved to form committee or JAC against the creation of five new districts without legal sanction.

While STNU chairman, Shomi Angkang has been appointed as convenor of the Adhoc committee while Thangal Tribe Union president, Dr Chand Thangmi, Chiru Tribe Union president Ph Zatak and Stoneson Ringkangmai have been appointed as co-convenors of the committee.

By A Staff Reporter 

IMPHAL | Sept 13

Tamei MLA, Awangbou Newmai, clarifying that the Naga People’s Front (NPF) Manipur unit is intact opined that the report of him being removed as the party president was baseless.

Speaking to media persons today at Hotel Imphal, Awangbou Newmai, cleared the air of confusion with regards to the report of the removal president of Naga People’s Front (NPF) Manipur unit.

According to Awangbou, he was elected the NPF president Manipur along with other office bearers as per the constitution during a convention held in November 26 last.

He said that the NPF Manipur unit have been observing the leadership crisis brewing in Nagaland since November 7 and subsequent change in government. But the NPF Manipur never interfered in any of the events, he said.

Nevertheless, he contended that the NPF Manipur chose not to support any undemocratic and autocratic decision in party’s administration in order to save the party as the party is built on democratic principles following the voice of the majority.

Terming the sudden decision of Dr Shürhozelie Liezietsu, to withdraw its support from NEDA and BJP as sided and undemocratic, Newmai said the NPF Manipur strongly condemned the step.

He maintained that the NPF Manipur unit was never part of Liesietsu’s decision and already withdrew their support to Dr Shürhozelie Liezietsu and his groups.

Citing the withdrawal of support, Newmai said that the question of him being removed as NPF president Manipur unit does not arises adding that four NPF MLAs in Manipur are with TR Zeliang and 37 NPF legislators in Nagaland.

He assured that the crisis within the party will be resolved after the party convention likely to be held in September 20.

The Tamei MLA also clarified that the report of NPF lobbying for cabinet berth was false and concocted.

A press released signed by secretary of Youth Wing, NPF, Manipur, S. Augustine, reportedly removed, Awangbou Newmai from his post with immediate effect for indulging in anti-party activities by joining the dissidents MLAs following a meeting held on September 8.

The report of the press release was published in most of the newspapers and also widely circulated in social networking sites.

According to the removal order, NPF president, Shürhozelie Liezietsu removed Newmai as per power conferred to him vide Article V Section 9 with Article XIV of the NPF constitution, it said.

It further said that the removal recommendation was made by the Disciplinary Action Committee (DAC) during its meeting on September 8.

Following the removal of Awangbou Newmai, Liezietsu in exercise of his power constituted a nomination committee consisting of Alexander Pao, Honreikhul Kashum, Sehpu Haokip and Victor Nunglum as the convenor, member secretary and members respectively, it continued.

It further said that A.S. Tennyson has been appointed as acting president till the recommendation of the nomination committee is approved by the central head Quarters.

Cabinet resolves to install Irawat’s statue near Assembly complex

IMPHAL | Sept 13

The State Cabinet has approved the proposal for putting on hold any process for conversion or reclamation of paddy land pending finalisation of the data bank with details of paddy land and wetland prepared with the help of digitised cadastral maps by the government.

The decision was taken in a State Cabinet meeting held at the chief minister’s secretariat with chief minister N. Biren Singh in the chair.

Manipur Conservation of Paddy Land and Wetland Act, 2014 was implemented in the State with effect from 10th September 2014. However, unauthorised conversion of lands for buildings and commercial uses continues to take place in violation of the act.

With a view to check such illegal conversions, the Cabinet has decided that a data bank with details of paddy land along with the survey numbers will be created with the help of cadastral maps combined with satellite images of paddy land.

The status of paddy land will be identified through preparation of digitised cadastral maps on the basis of satellite images of paddy lands existing as at the commencement of the act i.e. September 10, 2014.

The data bank shall be put in public domain on the websites of the departments of revenue and agriculture. All applications for conversion of paddy land and wetland shall be examined with reference to such data/maps.

Moreover, violations if any detected on the basis of such digital maps will be detected and penalised as per provisions of the act.

The Cabinet also decided to instruct the deputy commissioners of all districts to comply with the above decision strictly and ensure that no conversion or reclamation of paddy land and wetland is allowed until further instructions.

The meeting also decided to install a statue of Jananeta Hijam Irawat at a plot located opposite to Manipur Legislative Assembly complex as a mark of respect to the great leader of Manipur.

The Cabinet also gave its nod to allotment of State land under Dag No. 383 measuring an area of 8.10 acre at 76-Salam Keikhu, Lamshang in Imphal West district to the State Health Department for establishment of 60-bedded State Mental Hospital.

The State Cabinet also decided to revise the Manipur Water Policy, 2015 in order to update it in the light of the current developments and redress the emerging threats and needs.

It also approved the proposal of designating Irrigation and Flood Control Department (IFCD) as Nodal Department for the implementation of Manipur Water Policy, 2015.

The Cabinet also gave its nod to the proposal of re-designating of IFCD as department of Water Resources. The department shall have the responsibility of planning and developing all water resources including rivers, water bodies, as well as drainage system in the State.

The State Cabinet also resolved to enhance the age of superannuation of teachers with MSc (Nursing) of College of Nursing under medical directorate from 62 to 65 years.

 It also approved acquisition of land for construction of 33/11 KV sub-station at Hiyangthang under World Bank funded North Eastern Region Power System Improvement Project (NERPSIP).

 The State Cabinet also approved creation of Senapati sub-division consisting of 27 villages of Tadubi sub-division and four villages of Willong Sub-Division for administrative convenience. The new sub-division will have 6983 households and 37250 population.

After the creation of Senapati sub-division, the number of villages for Tadubi sub-division will be 12 with 5292 households and 38842 population.

 The State Cabinet also approved payment of compensation in connection with acquisition of land for the construction of bridges along NH-37.

By A Staff Reporter 

IMPHAL | Sept 13

Villagers of Bongbal Kholen today threatened to surrender their ration cards if the authority concerned fails to distribute their due share of rice under National Food Security Act (NFSA) villagers by the end of September.

Speaking to media persons, the village authority secretary, Lalpu, claimed that the villagers have not been getting their share of rice since the appointment of new PDS agents of 46/47 Bongbal Kholen in April last.

According to him, the village which is under Saikul division has nearly 500 villagers and 40 ration card holders.

The villagers have been getting 5 kgs of rice per card at the rate of Rs. 5 under NFSA till April last but it allegedly stopped after the appointment of new agent, identified as one Khaikhokam Kipgen.

He said that the matter has been apprised to the deputy commissioner of Kangpokpi on August 21 in the form of writing. However, the district authority has not been taking up any positive steps.

The village secretary demanded an explanation whether the NFSA rice is not sanctioned by the department or misappropriated by the so-called agents of the centres.

Citing the failure of the authority to distribute the rice, he termed the ration cards as worthless and threatened to surrender the cards if the demand is not fulfilled by the end of September.

While demanding the authority to make available the rice to the public under any circumstances, he also urged the authority to lodge FIR against anyone found responsible for misappropriation.

From Our Correspondent

JIRIBAM | Sept 13 

Locals of Vangai area of the newly created Pherzawl district held a protest demonstration today against the non-availability of benefits of any of the schemes under the government and non-distribution of PDS items ever since its implementation in the State. 

The protest rally started from Henchungpunjee and went on till it reached Man Bahadhur road.      

The rally began at 8 am in the morning. Several placards which read “Grant government scheme we are human”, “CM has visited all others districts but not Pherzawl” etc. along with a banner which read “Mass rally – Manipur government, we have been unreached. Grant us the government schemes we are also human, or free us to join Mizoram /Assam” were displayed. 

On the sidelines of the rally, Malubi of Henchungpunjee Muslims, Md Sobur Miya said that the people of Vangai including the students are facing difficulties while passing through the deplorable roadways in the area.

Not only that, the goods and items meant for the people have never reached the area, therefore the government of Manipur must look into the plight of the people and distribute those items urgently, he said.

Youth chairman of Henchungpunjee Village, Thangsukhum Hmar said the roadways in the area that was constructed by PMGSY are no longer in a working condition. Nobody has received any of the PDS cards as well as NRGS, he added.

Further he continued that the village does not even have an AAY House. Therefore, the really was held so that the government of Manipur will consider the plight of the villagers and take actions as soon as possible, he maintained.

Later in a public meeting the locals resolved that they should be allowed to go to either Mizoram or Assam, as they have been deprived of any benefits of schemes by the state government.

IMPHAL | Sept 13

A preparatory meeting for the district level Swachhta Pakhwara Plan, 2017 was held at the DRDO conference hall today

Presiding over the meeting, Athem Muivah, deputy commissioner, Senapati, outlined the tentative programmes for the fortnight long festival. To organise the festival effectively an organising committee was formed. The DC is the chairperson of the committee and it includes all the other stakeholders of the district. 

Outlining the programmes of the cleanliness festival which includes marathon race, debate competitions, street play, song competition etc., Athem Muivah appealed for the involvement of all the citizens of the district in creating awareness and maintaining a clean and healthy environment in the district.

He also proposed to implement “One Shop One Tree” around the main market area of the district.  A goodwill motor bike rally up to Ukhrul district was also proposed. 

The meeting was also attended by representatives of ADC, NPO, CMO, SDSA, SDWA and all the other stake holders of the district.

IMPHAL | Sept 13

Under the Central government’s Swachh Bharat Mission (GRAMIN), 3, 41,652 numbers of individual household latrines were constructed particularly in the rural areas of the State. 329 sanitary complexes, 3919 numbers of school toilets and 1201 numbers of Angawadi toilets have also been constructed. 

Moreover, 3919 numbers of government schools, 1201 Angawadis of Manipur are to be provided sanitary latrine by October 2, 2019. 

In addition, there are another 40,482 numbers of dysfunctional toilets in the state. Until these dysfunctional toilets are also made functional, achieving Open Defecation Free (ODF) state will not be possible. For this, ministry of drinking water and sanitation, government of India will sanction Rs.48.57 crore.

The public health engineering department, government of Manipur (hereafter PHED), deals with planning, investigation, project formulation, implementation and also operation and maintenance (O&M) of created assets, for water supply, Imphal sewerage and also implement the Swachh Bharat Mission (Gramin) in the State.

The present estimated population of Imphal city including greater Imphal, en-route habitations, urban fringe area is estimated as 6.65lakhs (2017) and is expected to reach 8.705 lakhs by 2031. The present water demand is calculated to be 120.48 MLD (2017) and requirement by the year 2031 will be 152.142 MLD. Even though the present installed capacity is 104.25 MLD, the actual production is hardly about 80.00 MLD.

To meet the demand at the rate of 135 lpcd for a design period upto 2031 AD, the government of Manipur has prepared a Detailed Project Report (DPR) for “Integrated Water Supply Project for Imphal Planning Area” with estimated cost of Rs. 89.75 crore since Phase-I was sanctioned under the transition phase of JNNURM during January 2014.

Under this project, reconstruction of nine water treatment plant at Koirengei, Khuman Lampak, Minuthong (Kangla), Porompat, Chinga, Canchipur, Singda, Kangchup and Kangchup extension and one Zonal Reservoir at Sangakpham etc. are in progress and earlier targeted to be completed by March 2017 but because of the indefinite economic blockade the work has been delayed.

Hence, phase – II of the project amounting to Rs. 175.81 crore has also been taken up under AMRUT and approved by the ministry on March 2016. As per the guideline of AMRUT, water supply is the first priority and as suggested by the Centre, replacement of distribution network only within the Imphal Municipal Council area with an estimated cost of Rs.175.81 crore is to be taken up in three phases with project duration of three years through MAHUD and IMC. MAHUD and IMC have decided to implement the project by PHED as deposit work as they do not have the necessary technical manpower.

IMPHAL | Sept 13

Chief minister N. Biren Singh presided a meeting to discuss the targets of the developmental projects or schemes undertaken by different government departments to be completed in the current year. The meeting was held at the cabinet hall of chief minister’s secretariat today.

During the meeting, N. Biren critically assessed the projects executed by various departments in the State. He directed all the administrative secretaries and head of departments to ensure timely completion of various developmental projects taken up by their respective departments. The projects must be completed within the current year, he urged.

 He categorically stated that the present working system needs to be changed so as to bring positive change in the State. He instructed the administrative secretaries and HODs of different departments to work sincerely and should co-ordinate among themselves to deliver good governance in the State.

He further directed them to work seriously and conduct field visits so that the poorest of the poor could be benefited from various developmental schemes.

The chief minister also instructed to form district level monitoring committees to review developmental activities at the district level. These committees shall submit weekly progress report for chief minister’s perusal.

At the meeting, officials of various departments presented an elaborate power point presentation of the development projects which are to be completed within the current year.

Some of the departments which have presented their detailed status of the projects are agriculture, horticulture, forest, RD & PR, IFCD, MSPCL, MSPDCL, commerce and industries and science and technology etc.

Cabinet ministers, chief secretary, DGP, administrative secretaries, commissioners and directors of various departments attended the meeting.

By A Staff Reporter

IMPHAL | Sept 13

People of different communities settled around Sekmai area staged a sit-in protest today against setting up of an army camp at the paddy land of Sekmai area. The sit-in was organised by the Sekmai Protection Committee (SPC) and Awang Sekmai Scheduled Caste Development Committee (ASSCDC).

Later, a rally was taken out till Sekmai SDO office shouting slogan “Sekmai ge Loukol armyda piba yaroy (paddy land cannot be given away to the army)”

Speaking to media persons, SPC president, Angom Rajesh said that the army camp located at Leimakhong Military Station, Koreingei Air Field and Pallel Air Field at Kakching are trying to reset their camp at the paddy field located at Sekmai, Khurkhul, Kaingam and Kanto area covering 1800 acres.

Following an application to the Imphal West district commissioner by the Indian army on July 7, 2017 a survey was conducted by Sekmai sub-deputy collector (SDC) at the paddy land of those areas, he added.

The survey report submitted to the deputy commissioner said 900 acres of land is available to set up the army camp, continued the president.

ASSCDC president, Laimayum Kula Singh supplemented that they will not sell even a small land even though the government offers good price for the land as the paddy land are the livelihood of the people settling around Sekmai area.

The people of Sekmai area appealed to the government not to let the army set up their camp at the paddy land of Sekmai area.

They further said that if the government tries to invent the paddy land of Sekmai area by force, the people of Sekami will fight against it by all means.

The SPC and ASSCDC have announced that the people of Sekmai area should not use their paddy field for any other purpose other than farming.

IMPHAL | Sept 13

Chief minister N. Biren Singh presided a meeting to discuss the targets of the developmental projects or schemes undertaken by different government departments to be completed in the current year. The meeting was held at the cabinet hall of chief minister’s secretariat today.

During the meeting, N. Biren critically assessed the projects executed by various departments in the State. He directed all the administrative secretaries and head of departments to ensure timely completion of various developmental projects taken up by their respective departments. The projects must be completed within the current year, he urged.

 He categorically stated that the present working system needs to be changed so as to bring positive change in the State. He instructed the administrative secretaries and HODs of different departments to work sincerely and should co-ordinate among themselves to deliver good governance in the State.

He further directed them to work seriously and conduct field visits so that the poorest of the poor could be benefited from various developmental schemes.

The chief minister also instructed to form district level monitoring committees to review developmental activities at the district level. These committees shall submit weekly progress report for chief minister’s perusal.

At the meeting, officials of various departments presented an elaborate power point presentation of the development projects which are to be completed within the current year.

Some of the departments which have presented their detailed status of the projects are agriculture, horticulture, forest, RD & PR, IFCD, MSPCL, MSPDCL, commerce and industries and science and technology etc.

Cabinet ministers, chief secretary, DGP, administrative secretaries, commissioners and directors of various departments attended the meeting.

From Our Correspondent

UKHRUL | Sept 13

The bodies of the five slain militants have been retrieved, says Thotreithing Chalamva, SDPO Kasom Khullen. The team was led by OC and 2nd OC of Kasom Khullen PS.

After filing FIR, preparation of inquest report and other necessary procedures at the Kasom Khullen police station, the bodies will be sent to JNIMS for post mortem and identification, added SDPO Kasom Khullen. While filing this report, inquest report for two dead bodies has been completed.

It may be recalled that a gunfight allegedly between NSCN (IM) and combined forces of CorCom and MNPF broke out in the wee hours of September 12 at Makan village under Kasom Khullen poice station, under Kamjong district.

As per the sources, the bullet ridden bodies were found in a hut situated in a jhum field about 2-3km away from the southern flank of Makan village. According to sources, 200 empty cartridges were recovered from the spot. The bullet ridden bodies of the five militants are yet to be identified since no one has come forward to identify them, informed SDPO Kasom Khullen.

Due to the dilapidated conditions of the road, the police vehicle -407 truck could not proceed to Makan village yesterday and the team was forced to return to Kasom Khullen. The team hired a Shaktiman truck and moved out again in the early morning around 4:00am. Because of this reason it took more time than expected informed SDPO Kasom Khullen.

Meanwhile according to a release of the outlawed RPF, the slain cadres have been identified as: Sgt/Maj. Richard alias Warepam Dinesh son of W. Nongyaijao from Kangla Tombi, Sgt. Lalloi alias Khundrakpam Sunil son of Kh. Sanatomba, from Leitanpokpi, Pte. Nanao alias Moirangthem Tomba, son of late M. Biren from Keibi Awang Leikai, Pte. Sinthouba alias Konjengbam Shyamsunder son of K. Nirmol, from Cachar Lakhimpur Khunou. They are all PLA cadres. The names include one MNPF cadre, identified as Raikham Jazo son of Nimai Jazo, from Nongdam village, Kamjong district.

From A Correspondent

THOUBAL | Sept 13

The outsource, Junior Technical Assistants and Computer Operators which is engaged as employees under MSPDLC Thoubal Division and working on daily wages at Manipur State Power Distribution Company Limited (MSPDCL) locked down the gate of its office today at Thoubal Athokpam and started off their cease work strike.

The cease work was started in protest against the company for seeking new employees instead of promoting the status of its present employees to regular. 

The secretary of JAC-MSPDCL outsource, A. Milan said. “it was unfortunate how the company is inviting new candidates by releasing notifications instead of promoting its former employees, who had been working for a long time in the company, to regular status”. 

The former employees included many who were working for more than five years. Many of them had died during work by electrocution. The government has not provided any help of compensation for them. Above all, the outsource employees have been struggling against odds as their salaries are not being paid for the last 5-6 months, he added.

He further expressed that it would be an inhuman act to make the former employees who have been working for a long period of time in not getting the advantage for searching new jobs. The authorities concerned must draw their attention to the prevailing issue and cancel the notification to make the former employees as regular ones.