Four blasts rock Imphal on RDay eve, none hurt

Making a mockery of all the stepped up security measures taken up ahead of Republic Day, three bombs exploded in succession this morning at Imphal, followed by another later in the evening near the Oak Tasar Farm opposite to the New Secretariat complex…

Making a mockery of all the stepped up security measures taken up ahead of Republic Day, three bombs exploded in succession this morning at Imphal, followed by another later in the evening near the Oak Tasar Farm opposite to the New Secretariat complex along NH 2 under Heingang police station Source The Sangai Express

Read more / Original news source: http://e-pao.net/ge.asp?heading=14&src=260113

Fest lights up Hiyangthang

Gaan Ngai, the biggest post harvest festival of the Zeliangrong people residing in Manipur, Assam and Nagaland has kick started with religious fervour and cultural gusto from today Source The Sangai Express

Gaan Ngai, the biggest post harvest festival of the Zeliangrong people residing in Manipur, Assam and Nagaland has kick started with religious fervour and cultural gusto from today Source The Sangai Express

Read more / Original news source: http://e-pao.net/ge.asp?heading=4&src=260113

Kuki homeland demand unattainable, says PPF

Celebrating Eid E Miladun, the birth day of Prophet Muhammad at Imphal East District’s Keikhu Muslim today, Pangal Political Forum PPF , Manipur has called for peace and co existence among the different groups of people living in Manipur Source Hue…

Celebrating Eid E Miladun, the birth day of Prophet Muhammad at Imphal East District’s Keikhu Muslim today, Pangal Political Forum PPF , Manipur has called for peace and co existence among the different groups of people living in Manipur Source Hueiyen News Service

Read more / Original news source: http://e-pao.net/ge.asp?heading=20&src=260113

70 year old rapes minor

A 13 year old disabled minor girl has been allegedly raped by a 70 year old man on January 19 amidst all the outcry and campaigns against rape and murder of women in different parts of the State Source The Sangai Express

A 13 year old disabled minor girl has been allegedly raped by a 70 year old man on January 19 amidst all the outcry and campaigns against rape and murder of women in different parts of the State Source The Sangai Express

Read more / Original news source: http://e-pao.net/ge.asp?heading=3&src=260113

GOC 3 Corps greets on RDay

On the occasion of 64th Republic Day of our country, Lt Gen AK Sahni, SM, VSM, GOC 3 Corps has conveyed his greetings to all ranks of the Army, Ex servicemen, their families and the dynamic people of the states of Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Nagaland, Mi…

On the occasion of 64th Republic Day of our country, Lt Gen AK Sahni, SM, VSM, GOC 3 Corps has conveyed his greetings to all ranks of the Army, Ex servicemen, their families and the dynamic people of the states of Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Nagaland, Mizoram, Manipur and Tripura Source Hueiyen News Service

Read more / Original news source: http://e-pao.net/ge.asp?heading=24&src=260113

One day into KSDC’s blockadeFuel cartel makes hay

A day after the Kuki State Demand Committee KSDC enforced its ‘public blockade’ in ‘Kuki areas’, fuel price has soared dramatically in the grey market as almost all fuel outlets remained closed Source The Sangai Express

A day after the Kuki State Demand Committee KSDC enforced its ‘public blockade’ in ‘Kuki areas’, fuel price has soared dramatically in the grey market as almost all fuel outlets remained closed Source The Sangai Express

Read more / Original news source: http://e-pao.net/ge.asp?heading=2&src=260113

Bomb blasts rock Imphal on Rday eve 1st MR complex attacked, three more blasts triggered at Keishamthong, Konung Mamang and Mantripukhri

Four bomb blasts in a single day rocked Imphal on the eve of Republic Day celebration today Source Hueiyen News Service

Four bomb blasts in a single day rocked Imphal on the eve of Republic Day celebration today Source Hueiyen News Service

Read more / Original news source: http://e-pao.net/ge.asp?heading=16&src=260113

FIVE YEARS RI for IT officer

MNS:- The Special Judge for CBI Cases, Mumbai has convicted Leeladhar Bangera, the then Income Tax Officer, Ward No.10, Piramal Chambers, Mumbai and sentenced him to undergo five years Rigorous Imprisonment with total fine of Rs. 35,000/- in a bribery case. CBI had registered a case against Shri Leeladhar Bangera, Income Tax Officer (ITO) Ward […]

MNS:- The Special Judge for CBI Cases, Mumbai has convicted Leeladhar Bangera, the then Income Tax Officer, Ward No.10, Piramal Chambers, Mumbai and sentenced him to undergo five years Rigorous Imprisonment with total fine of Rs. 35,000/- in a bribery case.
CBI had registered a case against Shri Leeladhar Bangera, Income Tax Officer (ITO) Ward No. 10, Piramal Chambers, Mumbai U/s 7 and 13(2) r/w 13(1) (d) of PC Act, 1988 on the allegation that he had demanded a bribe of Rs. 75,000/- from the complainant for settling the matter of penalty imposed on the complainant U/s 271(B) of Income Tax Act. The accused was arrested for demanding & accepting a bribe of Rs. 75,000/- from the complainant.
After investigation, a charge sheet was filed on 28.06.2010 in the Court of Special Judge for CBI Cases, Mumbai against Shri Leeladhar Bangera.
The Trial Court found the accused guilty and convicted him.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/five-years-ri-for-it-officer/

BJP will protect Manipur’s territory : L K Advani

MNS:- A team of BJP Manipur Pradesh led by Th. Chaoba Singh, President BJP Manipur Pradesh met top brass leaders of BJP New Delhi today. Hour long meeting was held with P Javedkar BJP National Spokesperson at his residence . After the meeting with the National Spokesperson, Th. Chaoba Singh and his team met L […]

MNS:- A team of BJP Manipur Pradesh led by Th. Chaoba Singh, President BJP Manipur Pradesh met top brass leaders of BJP New Delhi today.
Hour long meeting was held with P Javedkar BJP National Spokesperson at his residence . After the meeting with the National Spokesperson, Th. Chaoba Singh and his team met L K Advani, Chairman NDA at his residence 11 am today. In the meeting LK Advani assured the team that BJP is still committed on what Atal Behari Vajpayee said in Nagaland that the truce with Naga militants will not affect Manipur and neighboring states.
The team also met Sushma Swaraj, leader of the opposition (LS) at her residence at 4pm and discussed for about one hour.
During the meeting opposition leader Lok Shaba, Sushma Swaraj assured that BJP will not do anything against the interest of Manipur public rather they will safe guard in the interest of the public.
DoNER ministry which was established by the Atal Behari Vaspai has been misused by the UPA government so if the NDA comes to power in 2014 then all the facilities under DoNER ministry will reach every nook and corner of the NE states added the opposition leader.
The newly elected National BJP president, Rajnath Singh was also met by the team and he assured that a road map to bring peace and tranquility in Manipur will be worked out at the earliest, as BJP national leaders had raised various issue of Manipur in both the house of Parliament from time to time.
Further his new team will keep the door open for the public of Manipur to solve any problem.
The team was led by Th. Chaoba Singh and assisted M Ashinikumar, General secretary BJP, Dr. U. Deben Ex-MLA, Y. Khemchand, State executive member.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/bjp-will-protect-manipurs-territory-l-k-advani/

National Awards Presented for best Electoral Practices

MNS:- The Election Commission of India celebrated the 3rd National Voters’ Day across the country today. The theme for the 3rd NVD is ‘Inclusion’. NVD functions were held at more than 6.5 lakh locations across the country covering nearly all 8.5 lakh Polling Stations. Around 46,000 Educational Institutions also celebrated National Voters’ Day. Around 4,867 […]

MNS:- The Election Commission of India celebrated the 3rd National Voters’ Day across the country today. The theme for the 3rd NVD is ‘Inclusion’.
NVD functions were held at more than 6.5 lakh locations across the country covering nearly all 8.5 lakh Polling Stations. Around 46,000 Educational Institutions also celebrated National Voters’ Day. Around 4,867 Youth Voter Festivals have been held across the states to engage youth in the registration process.
The National Function to mark the 3rd National Voters’ Day was held at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi. Hon’ble Vice President, Shri M Hamid Ansari who was the Chief Guest, gave away the National Awards for the Best Electoral Practices. The Award comprises three awards for District Election officers and Superintendent of Police of district and one Special Award for Officers outside the district machinery. Best State Awards for 2012 was also given away to Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal. Media Awards for the Best Campaign on Voter Education and Awareness was also given away.
The Chief Guest also gave EPIC (Voter ID card) to 10 new voters of Delhi (those who attained the age of 18 years – with 1st January every year as the qualifying date) and a badge with the slogan “Proud to be a Voter – Ready to Vote”. The Vice President also administered the NVD pledge to all present in the function.
In his Keynote address, Shri Hamid Ansari commended the commission for its systematic and sustained programme for voters’ participation which has given visible results. He further added that a lot more needs to be done to make people’s participation complete. He appreciated the Commission’s initiative in sharing its skills and expertise with other democratic countries through IIIDEM.
Chief Election Commissioner, Shri V S Sampath congratulated the election machinery for the new enrolment of about 2.32 crore citizens in the recently concluded roll revision which included around 93 lakh newly eligible electors in the 18-19 yr age group. With this, he said, the country’s electorate now stands at 77.78 crore. He also pointed to the record turnout of voters particularly of women, in the recent general elections in Gujarat and Himachal Pradesh through concerted efforts of all, including Central and State Govt departments, educational institutions, civil society, corporate sector and the media. Shri Sampath welcomed Olympics medallists Ms Saina Nehwal and Ms Mary Kom as the Commission’s new national icons on voter participation.
Speaking at the function, Dr Ashwini Kumar, Minister of Law and Justice pointed out that voter participation is the key in electoral democracy and lauded the Election Commission for paying serious attention to this. He underlined ECI’s role in reinforcing Indian democracy also for setting an example in the whole world. He assured the Commission all support necessary for management of elections particularly in the area of electoral reforms.
Earlier, welcoming the guests, Election Commissioner Shri H S Brahma said that the NVD is now the flagship programme of the Election Commission of India not only in terms of the large-scale empowerment of citizens through enrolment but also for the country-wide undertaken for spreading voter education and awareness.
Introducing the National Awards, Election Commissioner Dr Nasim Zaidi, said that the objective of the awards was to encourage innovation, efficiency and contribution in the exclusive field of election management.
25th January is also the foundation day of the Commission, which came into being on this day in 1950. The Commission’s objective through NVD is to increase enrolment of voters, especially of the newly eligible ones, to make universal adult suffrage a complete reality. The National Voters’ Day is also utilized to spread awareness among voters regarding effective participation in the electoral process.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/national-awards-presented-for-best-electoral-practices/

UPF does not recognise KSDC

MNS:- The United People’ Fortim(UPF) today said the Suspension of Operation (SoO) is a tripartite agreement signed by the Union Government, State Government and Organisation concern on certain agreed parameters which includes, among others, to respect the Constitution of India and territorial integrity of the State. All the SoO signatories are equally responsible for maintaining […]

MNS:- The United People’ Fortim(UPF) today said the Suspension of Operation (SoO) is a tripartite agreement signed by the Union Government, State Government and Organisation concern on certain agreed parameters which includes, among others, to respect the Constitution of India and territorial integrity of the State. All the SoO signatories are equally responsible for maintaining the spirit of SoO agreement. It also means thai any demand is negotiable within ilie agreed parameters of SoO.
At no point of time did the UPF side step beyond the agreed SoO parameters, be it in submission of the Charier of Demands or in demanding the Autonomous Hill State (AHS) status under Art. 244A of the Indian Constitution. The AHS status neither impinges the territorial integrity of the State nor is it outside the Constitution of India. It is a pragmatic demand for equal development of both the hills and valleys wilhoul necessarily balkanising the State of Manipur. Once the demand is fulfilled, Manipur Stale will not only double its growth but fasten the pace of development hundred times or more and become a developed State within a decade. (iii)In a multi-ethnic state like Manipur the UPF envisioned inclusive solution to the problems confronting the State it was added. Any exclusive demands or communal approaches to the issues are found unhealthy, dangerous and unrealistic under present circumstances.
The moot point is, as to whether the Government and the people of Manipur truly dream of a durable solution for ushering a durable peace and sustainable development through peaceful process.
UPF urged all sections of the society to exercise their collective wisdom and support the on-going peace process until an honourable solution is reached. Such pragmatic demand deserves serious consideration by all reasonable persons in the State- for carrying forward the spirit of peaceful coexistence. It should never be misconstrued as violation of SoO tenets and hijacked by chauvinistic few who fail to see beyond their selfish calculations.
It never recognises the existence of Kuki State Demand Committee (KSDC), Manipur; neither it accepted its ideology nor the violence forms of protestations being pursued in recent limes. Any demand which directly threatens the territorial integrity of Manipur and makes open challenges to the establishment is outside the purview of SoO agreement and therefore, ihe UPF cannot be a party to the policy and approaches adopted by the so called KSDC, Manipur,
In the absence of any tangible communal boundary, balkanisation of Manipur State on communal lines is bound to cieate more problems in future, Neither the Maharaja of Manipur nor the Ciuvernment of India is responsible for drawing the present boundary of the State nor was the indigenous people’s consent taken by colonial Administrator while making the present Manipur boundary. We have inherited such colonial blunder and are forced to adjust ourselves with whau-vcr ills they had left. Yet, one should accept the fact that ‘change is universal and changing for the betterment of our future is a must.’ However the process of change does not necessarily be violent when the people exercise restraint and seek solution through collaborative efforts. K is in the backdrop of this that most of the tribal armed groups had come forward tor peaceful solution. It would be unfortunate if some people who do not understand the language of peaceful-negotiated-settlernent are permitted to sabotage the peace process.
The UPF envisioned a non-comrnunal approach to the socio-political problems of Manipur and seek durable solution within the- parameters of SoO agreement which may be arrived at through substantive dialogue it was added.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/upf-does-not-recognise-ksdc/

Agni V and INS Vikramaditya Find Pride of Place on Rajpath

  A strong and resurgent India will be celebrating its 64th Republic Day tomorrow. This year’s parade will highlight the nation’s achievements in various fields, the military prowess, scintillating display of air power as also country’s rich and diverse cultural heritage. The highlights of this year’s Parade will be the above 5,000 kms range Agni-V […]

 
A strong and resurgent India will be celebrating its 64th Republic Day tomorrow. This year’s parade will highlight the nation’s achievements in various fields, the military prowess, scintillating display of air power as also country’s rich and diverse cultural heritage.
The highlights of this year’s Parade will be the above 5,000 kms range Agni-V missile. The advanced Long Range Surface-to-Surface Ballistic Missile capable of being launched from anywhere in any direction and within a few minutes from a self-contained Road Mobile Launcher is being paraded by the Defence Research & Development Organisation. The state-of-the-art missile,which was successfully flight tested in the month of April last year, has provided the true deterrence capability and brought India at par with the elite group of advanced countries possessing this capability. A mini version of INS Vikramaditya which will join the Naval fleet by the end of this year is being showcased to highlight Indian Navy’s blue water operating capability.
The DRDO will also put on display the Armoured Amphibious Dozer (AAD), an indigenously developed versatile Combat Engineer support equipment with excellent earth moving and amphibious capabilities in varied terrain. Besides Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) System and Naval Sonar will also be on display on Rajpath by DRDO. The weaponry put on display by the Indian Army includes the Main Battle Tank ‘Arjun’, APC Ambulance tracked, theonly Super Sonic Cruise Missile Brahmos Weapon System,Pinaka Multi Barrel Rocket Launcher System, Chemical Biological Radiological Nuclear (CBRN) Recce Vehicle, Sarvatra Bridge, Mobile Integrated Network Terminal (MINT) and Radio Trunking System Mk-II (RTS Mk-II). The Army`s Mechanized Columns will conclude with a flypast by the Advanced Light Helicopter Dhruv of the Army Aviation Corps.
The Indian Air Force will showcase its latest acquisitions on its tableau. It comprise the new basic trainer aircraft, the Pilatus PC-7 Mk-II and the new VIP helicopter, the Augusta Westland AW-101. It will also showcase the indigenous ‘eyes in the sky’ atop the Embraer 145, Airborne Early Warning and Control aircraft and the strategic heavy lift aircraft, C-17 Globemaster-III, which will enter service by the middle of this year.
The Indian Navy’s tableau depicts a scaled down model of INS Vikramaditya, a large aircraft carrier which will join the naval fleet by the end of this year. The ship is capable of sustaining at sea for more than 45 days at a stretch. She is also equipped to carry over 30 combat aircraft at any time giving her the freedom to operate and strike anywhere at sea.
The Navy’s tableau also focusing on INS Chakra, a nuclear propelled submarine.
The parade ceremony will commence at the Amar JawanJyoti at India Gate where the Prime Minister DrManmohan Singh will lead the nation in paying homage to the martyrs by laying wreath. An eternal flame burns at the Amar JawanJyoti to commemorate the indomitable courage of our Armed Forces personnel who have made the supreme sacrifice in the service of the motherland. The Amar Jawan, the immortal soldier, is symbolised by a reversed rifle topped by a helmet.
As per tradition, after unfurling of the National Flag, the National Anthem will be played. The parade will then commence and the President will take the salute. This year’s Chief Guest in the parade will be His Majesty Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuk, the King of the Himalayan Kingdom of Bhutan. The parade will be commanded by Lt. General SubrotoMitra, General Officer Commanding, Delhi Area.
Major General Rajbir Singh, Chief of Staff, Delhi Area will be the parade Second-in-Command. ParamVir Chakra winners Sub Maj (Hon. Capt) Bana Singh, 8 JAK LI, NaibSubedarYogendra Singh Yadav, 18 Grenadiers and Havaldar Sanjay Kumar, 13 JAK RIF and Ashok Chakra Winners Maj Gen CA Pithawalla, GoC, Andhra Sub Area, Lt Col Jas Ram Singh (retd), Major D. Sree Ram Kumar, 90 Field Regiment, Hon`y Naib Subedar Chhering Mutup (retd), Jammu, Shri Hukum Singh and Shri Govind Singh, both from district Chhatarpur, Madhya Pradesh and Shri BhureLal of district Guna, also from Madhya Pradesh will follow the Deputy Parade Commander on Jeeps.
The marching contingents of Army will include the horse-mounted columns of the 61st Cavalry, Mechanized Infantry Regiment, Maratha Light Infantry, Dogra Regiment, Garhwal Rifles, Ladakh Scouts, 8 Gorkha Training Centre, Army Ordnance Corps and Territorial Army (Punjab).
The marching contingents of Navy comprising 144 men will be led by Lt. Commander Ajay Kumar Verma and the Air Force contingent comprising 144 men will be led by Flight Lieutenant Heena Pore. The marching contingents of paramilitary and other auxiliary civil forces will include contingents from the Border Security Force, Assam Rifles, Coast Guard, Central Reserve Police Force, Indo-Tibetan Border Police, Central Industrial Security Force, SashastraSeemaBal, Railway Protection Force, Delhi Police, National Cadet Corps and National Service Scheme. The Camel-mounted band of the BSF and the Ex-Servicemen marching contingent will be another major attraction.
Tableaux from 19 states and Central Ministries and Departments will present the varied historical, architectural and cultural heritage of the country. They will also showcase country’s progress in different fields. Twenty one of the 22 children selected for the National Bravery Award–2012 will also participate in the parade. One child has got the award posthumously. In the children’s pageant section, 1,000 boys and girls drawn from Delhi`s two schools, one school from Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan and one from Eastern Zone Cultural Centre, Kolkata will present dances and other programmes.
Tornadoes, the motorcycle display by the Army Service Corps will be a major attraction of the parade. The tornadoes team consists of 135 riders on motorcycles performing Standing Salute, Ladder Balance, Fish Riding, Back Riding, Long Arm, Verma Lotus, ASC Special, Balance Seat and Fish, Sudershan Chakra, Balance Ride Standing, Ladder Lotus and Human Pyramid forms under the leadership of Major SS Rathore. They will perform breathtaking stunts in a synchronised and synergetic display of mind, body and machine coordination.
The grand finale of the parade will be a spectacular flypast by the IAF. The flypastcommence with ‘Chakra’ formation, comprising three Mi-35 helicopters in ‘Vic’ formation, followed by the Hercules formation comprising three C-130J Super Hercules aircraft in ‘Vic’ formation. Trailing them will be a Big Boy formationcomprising one IL-78, flanked by two AN-32 and two Dorniers. Next in line will be the fighters, – while five Jaguars will fly in Arrowhead formation, another five Mig-29 air Superiority Fighter called the “Tridents” will fly in Fulcrum style. Then the breathtaking Trishul formation comprising threeSu-30 MKI would fly over the Rajpath and once in front of the saluting dais the Su-30MKI aircraft will split upwards, making a Trishul in the sky. The flypast will conclude with another Sukhoi Su-30 MKI carrying out a Vertical Charlie manoeuvre over the saluting dais.
The ceremony will culminate with the National Anthem and release of balloons.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/agni-v-and-ins-vikramaditya-find-pride-of-place-on-rajpath/

Address by President to the Nation on the eve of Republic Day

    The President, Shri Pranab Mukherjee, addressed the Nation on the eve of the 64th Republic Day. Following is the text of the President’s address on the occasion: “My Fellow Citizens: On the eve of our 64th Republic Day, I extend warm greetings to all of you in India and abroad. I convey my […]

 

 
The President, Shri Pranab Mukherjee, addressed the Nation on the eve of the 64th Republic Day. Following is the text of the President’s address on the occasion:
“My Fellow Citizens:
On the eve of our 64th Republic Day, I extend warm greetings to all of you in India and abroad. I convey my special greetings to members of our armed forces, paramilitary forces and internal security forces.
India has changed more in last six decades than in six previous centuries. This is neither accidental nor providential; history shifts its pace when touched by vision. The great dream of raising a new India from the ashes of colonialism reached a historic denouement in 1947; more important, independence became a turning point for an equally dramatic narrative, nation-building. The foundations were laid through our Constitution, adopted on 26 January 1950, which we celebrate each year as Republic Day. Its driving principle was a compact between state and citizen, a powerful public-private partnership nourished by justice, liberty and equality.
India did not win freedom from the British in order to deny freedom to Indians. The Constitution represented a second liberation, this time from the stranglehold of traditional inequity in gender, caste, community, along with other fetters that had chained us for too long.
This inspired a Cultural Evolution which put Indian society on the track to modernity: society changed in a gradual evolution, for violent revolution is not the Indian way. Change across the knotted weaves of the social fabric remains a work in progress, impelled by periodic reform in law and the momentum of popular will.
In the last six decades there is much that we can be proud of. Our economic growth rate has more than tripled. The literacy rate has increased by over four times. After having attained self sufficiency, now we are net exporters of food-grain. Significant reduction in the incidence of poverty has been achieved. Among our other major achievements is the drive towards gender equality.
No one suggested this would be easy. The difficulties that accompanied the first quantum leap, the Hindu code bill, enacted in 1955 tell their own story. It needed the unflinching commitment of leaders like Jawaharlal Nehru and Babasaheb Ambedkar to push through this remarkable legislation. Jawaharlal Nehru would later describe this as perhaps the most important achievement of his life. The time has now come to ensure gender equality for every Indian woman. We can neither evade nor abandon this national commitment, for the price of neglect will be high. Vested interests do not surrender easily. The civil society and the government must work together to fulfill this national goal.
I speak to you when a grave tragedy has shattered complacency. The brutal rape and murder of a young woman, a woman who was symbol of all that new India strives to be, has left our hearts empty and our minds in turmoil. We lost more than a valuable life; we lost a dream. If today young Indians feel outraged, can we blame our youth?
There is a law of the land. But there is also a higher law. The sanctity of a woman is a directive principle of that larger edifice called Indian civilization. The Vedas say that there is more than one kind of mother: birth mother, a guru`s wife, a king`s wife, a priest`s wife, she who nurses us, and our motherland. Mother is our protection from evil and oppression, our symbol of life and prosperity. When we brutalise a woman, we wound the soul of our civilization.
It is time for the nation to reset its moral compass. Nothing should be allowed to spur cynicism, as cynicism is blind to morality. We must look deep into our conscience and find out where we have faltered. The solutions to problems have to be found through discussion and conciliation of views. People must believe that governance is an instrument for good and for that, we must ensure good governance.
We are on the cusp of another generational change; the youth of India spread across villages and towns, are in the vanguard of change. The future belongs to them. They are today troubled by a range of existential doubts. Does the system offer due reward for merit? Have the powerful lost their Dharma in pursuit of greed? Has corruption overtaken morality in public life? Does our legislature reflect emerging India or does it need radical reforms? These doubts have to be set at rest. Elected representatives must win back the confidence of the people. The anxiety and restlessness of youth has to be channelized towards
The young cannot dream on an empty stomach. They must have jobs capable of serving their own as well as the nation`s ambitions. It is true that we have come a long way from 1947, when our first Budget had a revenue of just over Rs.171 crore. The resource base of the Union government today is an ocean compared to that drop. But we must ensure that the fruits of economic growth do not become the monopoly of the privileged at the peak of a pyramid. The primary purpose of wealth creation must be to drive out the evil of hunger, deprivation and marginal subsistence from the base of our expanding population.
Last year has been a testing time for us all. As we move ahead on the path of economic reforms, we must remain alive to the persisting problems of market-dependent economies. Many rich nations are now trapped by a culture of entitlement without social obligations; we must avoid this trap. The results of our policies should be seen in our villages, farms and factories, schools and hospitals.
Figures mean nothing to those who do not benefit from them. We must act immediately, otherwise the current pockets of conflict, often described as “Naxalite” violence, could acquire far more dangerous dimensions.
In the recent past, we have seen serious atrocities on the Line of Control on our troops. Neighbours may have disagreements; tension can be a subtext of frontiers. But sponsorship of terrorism through non-state actors is a matter of deep concern to the entire nation. We believe in peace on the border and are always ready to offer a hand in the hope of friendship. But this hand should not be taken for granted.
India`s most impregnable asset is self-belief. Each challenge becomes an opportunity to strengthen our resolve to achieve unprecedented economic growth and social stability. Such resolve must be nourished by an avalanche of investment, particularly in better and greater education. Education is the ladder that can help those at the bottom to rise to the pinnacles of professional and social status. Education is the mantra that can transform our economic fortunes and eliminate the gaps that have made our society unequal. So far education has not reached, to the extent desired, to those most in need of this ladder. India can double its growth rate by turning today`s disadvantaged into multiple engines of economic development.
On our 64th Republic Day, there may be some reason for concern, but none for despair. If India has changed more in six decades than six previous centuries, then I promise you that it will change more in the next ten years than in the previous sixty. India’s enduring vitality is at work.
Even the British sensed that they were leaving a land which was very different from the one they had occupied. At the base of the Jaipur Column in Rashtrapati Bhavan there is an inscription:
“In thought faith…
In word wisdom…
In deed courage…
In life service…
So may India be great”
The spirit of India is written in stone.
JAI HIND!”

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/address-by-president-to-the-nation-on-the-eve-of-republic-day/

It’s a sad phase

The people of the state have landed in quagmire not knowing what to do. While the people living in the hills are demanding separate homeland the valley area is traumatised by ceaseless rocking caused by bomb blast. Where should we hide for cover? The manner with which bombs were blasted today in different areas of […]

The people of the state have landed in quagmire not knowing what to do. While the people living in the hills are demanding separate homeland the valley area is traumatised by ceaseless rocking caused by bomb blast. Where should we hide for cover? The manner with which bombs were blasted today in different areas of the state capital reveals the ability of the armed elements to strike at will the target of their choice. It seems the bombs were planted to discourage participation of general public in the Republic day celebration in the state capital, where the main function takes place. Despite series of combing operations launched at different areas of the state capital to shoo away armed elements from the state capital in view of the Republic Day celebration the armed elements could carry out what it wanted to do. Bombs were laid even in the heavily cordoned off area. How it happened? That is for the investigating agencies to study. As Republic Day celebration is banned by all armed elements of all hues something of this nature that we witnessed this morning was expected. They carry out similar bomb attacks every year. This will continue until the Government makes serious endeavour to bring all the UG elements over the negotiating table. Peace had returned to other parts of the country except in Manipur, which continues to see what it has have been seeing. Elusive peace is not made for us. Does it happen elsewhere? The restlessness of this nature we are seeing in Manipur, is horrendous? There is no such demand of homeland in Kashmir, which is even bordering with the hostile country Pakistan. We have to blame the Union Government, which leaves the solution of law and order in the hands of the state Government only. When Punjab was rocked by Khalistan movement it left no stone unturned to find solution. Punjab had seen the return of peace. Similar efforts need to be made to bring Manipur back to normalcy. Even those very few elements, who have surrendered to the Government, are not properly rehabilitated. Who else will think of following them when the Government invites them to return to the mainstream? A lot of hard work needs to be done to restore peace and communal harmony in the state. But the general public are peace loving people. What they want is nothing but development. They want to see our state moving forward. The state is lagging behind in all fields. Villages in remote areas are not getting even the basic amenities. It is time we all think what we should do for them. Republic Day celebration will pass. But the restlessness that threw life out of gear will remain. Manipur cannot move out of this sad phase. Brothers are killing brothers. The sufferers happen to be the lowliest guys. When will peace return to Manipur? When will brothers realise the futility of demanding separate homeland. We must live and fight for ushering peace and tranquillity in this trouble torn state. It should be the endeavour of all people in Manipur to keep the state intact. Let this sad phase pass way. Let us all fight for giving peace a chance.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/its-a-sad-phase/

Voters day

The third national voters day 2013 was held at GM Hall Imphal today. PC Lawmkunga, additional CS, O.Nabakishore, CEO, Manipur Y. Rameshchandra, state election commissioner graced the occasion as chief guest, president and guest of honour respectively. The CEO read the message of Chief Election commissioner of India. The message of national icon Smt. MC […]

The third national voters day 2013 was held at GM Hall Imphal today.
PC Lawmkunga, additional CS, O.Nabakishore, CEO, Manipur Y. Rameshchandra, state election commissioner graced the occasion as chief guest, president and guest of honour respectively.
The CEO read the message of Chief Election commissioner of India.
The message of national icon Smt. MC Mary Kom was also released as audio-visual.
Epics were distributed new voters and prizes were also distributed to those who stood positions in state level quiz at essay completion.
Delivering the key note address joint CEO, Manipur N. Prabin said, the national voters day vehicle began since 2011 imparted awareness so that they can take interest in democratic process and electrorate process.
The function was also held at different district h/Qs, EROS AND 2652 Polling stations.
Lawmkunga made a speech during the observation function organised by Election Department, Manipur at GM Hall here. He said, “Since the people have extended great help to the department in electoral revision process, this year’s edition of the National Voters’ Day has been made the most successful observation.” He said cheating in voting has been considerably declining, since the introduction of Photo Electoral Rolls in the state.
Lawmkunga said Manipur now has a total of 17, 47, 889 voters as per the Electoral Roll Revision carried out from October 1 to November 20 in 2012.
The Additional Chief Secretary also said, “Now the state Election Department is ten times busier than normal.”
Citing the additional heavy workload that has been assigned to the department by the Central Government, Lawmkunga sought support from the people as well as the concerned departments in executing the whole task. Chief Electoral Officer, Manipur O Nabakishore Singh, state Election Commissioner Y Rameshchandra, officials of the state Election Department and a number of newly enrolled voters also attended the function.
Ten selected newly enrolled voters were felicitated . Winners of essay and quiz competitions held in connection with the observation by the Election Department were also given cash prizes.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/voters-day/

KSDC bandh, oil depots closed down

The Kuki State Demand Committee (KSDC) sponsored agitation was effective in Kuki dominated areas of Manipur on the first day today. Most oil to depots were closed down and sale of petroleum products in black market began early today. A Maruti van and a mini truck were reportedly damaged along the National Highway 2, according […]

The Kuki State Demand Committee (KSDC) sponsored agitation was effective in Kuki dominated areas of Manipur on the first day today. Most oil to depots were closed down and sale of petroleum products in black market began early today.
A Maruti van and a mini truck were reportedly damaged along the National Highway 2, according a report received. Around 32 vehicles have been stranded along the Imphal-Jiri road while construction of rail-line has been halted near Jiribam, according to KSDC leaders.
Large number of women folks are enforcing public blockade along the Imphal-Ukhrul road, according to KSDC while the Imphal-Moreh route was also affective on the first day today.
Meanwhile, the KSDC has decided to exempt the participants and the officials from the purview of the agitation, who are participating in the
23rd National Canoe Sprint Championship to be held from January 30 to February 4 in Imphal. The KSDC asked the participants to put on their identity cards. The KSDC however appealed the sports persons not to misuse the advantage given to them during the agitation.
The KSDC has been demanding that a political dialogue with the Kuki militant outfits begin without further delay.MNS NNN

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/ksdc-bandh-oil-depots-closed-down/

Republic day to be celebrated today, blasts rock Imphal

Mail News Service New Delhi, Jan 25: Four explosions have shaken Manipur state capital Imphal on Friday on the eve of the 64th Republic Day celebrations. Imphal West and Imphal East districts have been put on a high alert following the blasts, police said. However, no report of human casualty was reported in the explosions. […]

Mail News Service
New Delhi, Jan 25: Four explosions have shaken Manipur state capital Imphal on Friday on the eve of the 64th Republic Day celebrations.
Imphal West and Imphal East districts have been put on a high alert following the blasts, police said. However, no report of human casualty was reported in the explosions.
Police sources were saying the explosions were caused by IEDs.
One explosion was reported inside the headquarters of 1st Manipur Rifles around 7:30 am, another on the bank of the Nambul River section of Keishamthong Longjam Leirak around 10:15 am and a third in front of main gate of Raja Dumbra Singh High School in New Chekon around 10:55 am.
The first explosion that took place about 30 metres south of the Parade Ground of 1st Manipur Rifles hit a store room which was partially damaged. The Parade Ground is the main venue of the Republic Day celebration prepared by Manipur Government. Police officials from Imphal Police Station rushed to the site and assessed it.
The police conducted verification on people who were working and decorating the ground for Republic Day celebration, including people living in the family line. However, no arrest was made during the verification.
The second bomb exploded at a trash site on the bank of Nambul River. The police blocked the traffic along Nongmeibung road stretch at Konung Mamang Traffic Island for some time after the third explosion in front of Raja Dumbra Singh High School.Imphal East District Police’s Superintendent of Police Angam Kamei along with other police officials also assessed the site.Another bomb blast took place around 8: 05pm in front of Guwahati High Court complex .
This was the forth blast for today in the heart of Imphal.
The blast took place just in front of Tasar farm opposite to Guwahati High Court at Chingmeirong.
Security forces are patrolling all over the city but fail to prevent the bomb blast as no officer were ready to give a statement to the media regarding the bomb blast.
However, Co-ordination Committee (CorCoM), an umbrella body of militant outfits based in Manipur, the conglomerate organization of seven militant groups in Manipur, including other several militant groups of the Northeast have jointly called a 13-hour general strike in the region to boycott the 64th Republic Day celebrations of India, to be celebrated on January 26.
Nine personnel of Manipur police have been awarded Police Medal for Gallantry and Police Medal for Meritorious Service to another seven personnel on the occasion of Republic Day celebration, 2013.
According to statement from Police Department, Government of Manipur, Potsangbam Tarunkumar (Sub-Inspector), Radhakishore Tongbram (Havildar), M Roshan (Havildar), Maibam Uttam (Sub-Inspector), M Nungshibabu (Havildar), Md Rajib Khan (Sub-Inspector), Oinam Sanjitkumar (Rifleman), Sagapam Ibotombi (Sub-Inspector) and Khangembam Herojit (Rifleman) have been conferred with the Police Medal for Gallantry on the occasion of Republic Day celebration, 2013.
It further said L Ibotombi, Commandant, 2nd IRB, M Manimohon, Deputy Secretary (Home), Mangkhojang Kipgen, Assistant Commandant, 4th IRB, N Sanatomba, Subedar, Manipur Police Training Centre, Y Indrakumar, Subedar, 6th IRB, N Binoy, Inspector, Imphal West and L Nabachandra, Havildar, 7th Manipur Rifles have been awarded the Police Medal for Meritorious Service on the occasion. Gurbachan Jagat, Governor said in a message, “It gives me immense pleasure to warmly greet the people of Manipur on the occasion of Republic Day, 2013 and my best wishes to them all. Eight hundred and seventy five personnel have been awarded police medals on the occasion of the Republic Day this year.
They include the President’s Police Medals for Gallantry (PPMG) to one person, Police Medals for Gallantry (PMG) to 115 personnel, President’s Police Medals for Distinguished Service to 88 and Police Medals for Meritorious Service to 671 personnel.
Thirty-seven personnel have been awarded Correctional Service Medals. They include President’s Correctional Service Medals for Distinguished Service to five individuals, Correctional Service Medals for Meritorious Service to 29 and President’s Correctional Service Medal for Gallantry to three persons.
It was on this day in 1 950, that we gave ourselves a Constitution declaring our country as a Sovereign, Secular and Democratic Republic. From that day, our Constitution has been the guiding principle of our nation. We should on this occasion pay our homage to the founding fathers of the Constitution for their insight and understanding.
The young Indian democracy has stood firm against adversaries and it is our responsibility towards the valiant freedom fighters to make our nation a leaders, amongst the comity of nations. Successive elections have shown the power of the ballot and the will of the people. We all are now the proud citizens of a democratic nation.
India with its young population is on the verge of emerging as a leader among the nations. There is an urgent need to channelise the talent and potential of our youth to make a positive impact on society. Let us all work together to make our country a strong, peaceful and prosperous nation.
On this auspicious occasion, let us once again resolve to uphold and promote the secular, socialist and democratic values enshrined in our Constitution and work together in making our country a leader among the nations.
On the occasion of 64th Republic Day of our country, Lt Gen AK Sahni, SM, VSM, GOC 3 Corps convey his greetings to all ranks of the Army, Ex-servicemen, their families and the dynamic people of the states of Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Nagaland, Mizoram, Manipur and Tripura. The GOC said that let us all resolve together to uphold and promote the secular, socialist and democratic values enshrined in the Constitution of India and work unitedly for making our country stronger and prosperous. The GOC further appeal to all insurgent groups in the North East to give up violence, come to the negotiating table and resolve their grievances through dialogue.
The GOC appreciated and thanked the people of North East states for cooperation with the Army and assure that the Army will continue to be friendly in all spheres.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/republic-day-to-be-celebrated-today-blasts-rock-imphal/

Gaan Ngai celebrated

IMPHAL, Jan 25 NNN : The state level Gaan-Ngai celebration 2013, the biggest festival of the Zeliangrong tribes, was celebrated on Saturday with great fervor at Tarung village in Imphal West. Chief Minister of Manipur O Ibobi inaugurated the celebration with much enthusiasm at a glittering function which was also attended by Deputy Chief Minister […]

Chief Minister, O Ibobi, Gaikhangam Dy CM and others attending Gaan Ngai

Chief Minister, O Ibobi, Gaikhangam Dy CM and others attending Gaan Ngai

IMPHAL, Jan 25 NNN : The state level Gaan-Ngai celebration 2013, the biggest festival of the Zeliangrong tribes, was celebrated on Saturday with great fervor at Tarung village in Imphal West.
Chief Minister of Manipur O Ibobi inaugurated the celebration with much enthusiasm at a glittering function which was also attended by Deputy Chief Minister Gaikhangam, Commerce and Industries minister Govindas Konthoujam, Rural Development and Panchayati Raj minister Francis Ngajokpa, Works minister Dr Kh Ratankumar, Agriculture minister Md Abdul Nasir, former Union Minister of State (Home) Prof M Kamson and several Parliamentary Secretaries and MLAs, and leaders of various NGOs.
Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Minister called for maintaining peace and harmony among different ethnic communities in the state and to refrain from being selfishness by all.
He said, “The biggest festival of the Zeliangrong tribes is Gaan-Ngai which is celebrated as a post-harvest festival with a special prayer to the Almighty for blessing and prosperity.
Although the festival is celebrated at the state level here, it would be continued to celebrate in different villages for several days, the Chief Minister said.
He said such festival has given a message of love, peace and forgiveness to the people and added that forgiveness is the highest honesty.
Deputy Chief Minister Gaikhangam also spoke on the occasion. He said the Zeliangrong community has a rich cultural heritage and it is also a peace-loving people.
He said Gaan-Ngai festival is the only festival in the state which is celebrated for seven long days with events like prayer, feasting, singing, dancing, games and sports.
The Deputy Chief Minister also greeted the Zeliangrong tribes and wished for a prosperous and peaceful society with the celebration of Gaan-Ngai.
Several cultural troupes from different districts also performed cultural and traditional dances and songs at the function.
Gaan-Ngai is the biggest annual festival of the Zelingrong tribes of Manipur, Assam and Nagaland which is a post-harvest festival celebrated around the winter season.
It last for four-five days or more. This festival heralds the closing of the old year and the arrival of the New Year. Other Naga tribes also celebrate similar after harvest festivals.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/gaan-ngai-celebrated/

Republic Day police medals

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IMPHAL, January 25: According to the press release issued by Y. Joykumar singh, Director General of Police, Manipur, Imphal, the personnel of Manipur police who have been awarded police medal for gallantry are Potsangbam Tarunkumar Singh ( Sub- Inspector), Radhakishor … Continue reading

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The post Republic Day police medals appeared first on  KanglaOnline.com.

IMPHAL, January 25: According to the press release issued by Y. Joykumar singh, Director General of Police, Manipur, Imphal, the personnel of Manipur police who have been awarded police medal for gallantry are Potsangbam Tarunkumar Singh ( Sub- Inspector), Radhakishor Tongbram ( Habildar), M. Roshan Singh (Havildar), Maibam Uttam Singh ( sub-Inspector), M Nungshibabu singh (Havildar), Md. Rajib Khan ( Sub- Inspector), Oinam Sanjitkumar Singh ( Rifleman),  Sangapam Ibotombi Singh ( Sub-Inspector) and Khangembam Herojit Singh ( Rifleman).

The personnel who have been awarded police medal for meritorious service on the occasion of Republic Day Celebration, 2013 are L. Ibotombi Singh ( Commandant), N. Manimohon Singh (Dy. Secy (Home), Mangkhojang Kipgen (Asst. Comdt.), N. Sanatomba Singh ( Subedar), Y. IndrakumarSingh ( Subedar), N. Binoy Singh ( Inspector) and L. Nabachandra ( Havildar).

Meanwhile, according to the message from DGCD Home New Delhi to Director Manipur Fire Service Government of Manipur Fire Service HQ, Imphal, the President has approved the award of fire service medal for meritorious service to Sanatomba Singh Thounaujam, Leading Fireman of the Manipur Fire Service.

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CM condoles

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IMPHAL, January 25: In an official statement, the Chief Minister of Manipur, O Ibobi has deeply condoled the sad demise of Th. Achouba Singh after a prolonged illness at his residence today. Noting  that Th. Achouba served the people of … Continue reading

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The post CM condoles appeared first on  KanglaOnline.com.

IMPHAL, January 25: In an official statement, the Chief Minister of Manipur, O Ibobi has deeply condoled the sad demise of Th. Achouba Singh after a prolonged illness at his residence today. Noting  that Th. Achouba served the people of Khangabok Assembly Constituency, Thoubal District as MLA for a long time , CM Ibobi said that the state has lost a respected public figure and a fine human being. The statement added that CM Ibobi has conveyed his heartfelt condolences to the members of the bereaved family. 

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