15th Bharat Nirman Campaign begins at Tamenglong

Mail News Service Imphal, Sep 11 : Braving the seasonal downpour, the 3 day awareness programme on Central government sponsored flagship programmes called Bharat Nirman Public Information Campaign was formally inaugurated at the Town Baptish Church hall today at Tamenglong district headquarter . The 15th edition of PIC was organized by Press Information Bureau (PIB) […]

 Janghemlung  Panmei MLA visiting the stalls, at the inauguration of the Public Information Campaign on Bharat Nirman at Tamenglong,  on September 11

Janghemlung Panmei MLA visiting the stalls, at the inauguration of the Public Information Campaign on Bharat Nirman at Tamenglong, on September 11

Mail News Service
Imphal, Sep 11 : Braving the seasonal downpour, the 3 day awareness programme on Central government sponsored flagship programmes called Bharat Nirman Public Information Campaign was formally inaugurated at the Town Baptish Church hall today at Tamenglong district headquarter .
The 15th edition of PIC was organized by Press Information Bureau (PIB) Government of India,Imphal in collaboration with Directorate of Field Publicity(DFP),Directorate of Advertising and Visual Publicity, Song and Drama Division, All Indian Radio and Doordarshan and District administration of Tamenglong.
Janghemlung Panmei MLA was the chief guest while Member District Council Charles Liangdiyang of Tamenglong Autonomous District Council presided over the function. Assistant District Magistrate Joseph Pauline also attended the function as guest of honour.
“We are here to gain knowledge on what the government is doing for us,”said MLA Janghemlung while speaking on the occasion. “I hope this awareness programme will benefit to the people as we lack awareness on what the central schemes are all about.In fact the government has done so many things for us but why not we take such opportunity. We should think and act on it”.
Urging the public to wake up and learn or gain knowledge on such schemes, he said that such opportunity should not be ignored by one and all including our beloved students on subjects like the Right to Education Act.
Let this campaign be the beginning of making a new era of taking up development activities in the district,he appealed.
Stating that PIB plays a big role in disseminating the information to masses, Member District Council Charles Liangdiyang of Tamenglong Autonomous District Council said, the government want to tell (to the people) what the government is doing for the people through this campaign.
Sharing the similar sentiment in his presidential speech, Assistant District Magistrate Joseph Paulinesaid that development should reach all section of the society and here the implementing agencies should play an important role. He also informed that besides existing Below Poverty Line and Above Poverty Line families,a total of 21,281beneficiaries in Tamenglong district will be covered once the National Food Security Act is come into force in the state.
Media and Communication Officer Premlata Loitam of PIB Imphal said the campaign which aims to spread more awareness on central sponsored schemes in the state, district and village levels, was launched at Malom in Imphal West district for the first time in Manipur in 2006.This time the campaign is being taken up for the third time in Tamenglong after organizing the campaign in 2007 and 2011 respectively.
Earlier the dignitaries of inaugural function opened an exhibition on central flagship programmes as part of the campaign where about 17 stalls including Health,Public Health Engineering and Social welfare departments, Tamenglong Cane and Bamboo Development Centre etc. Later Mathew of DFP gave the vote of thanks in the day’s inaugural function.
Manipur Youths Cultural Organisation and Imphal Artists Union under Song and Drama Division Imphal centre also performed in the day’s function.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/15th-bharat-nirman-campaign-begins-at-tamenglong/

Working Group on Human Rights in India and the UN (WGHR) calls for repeal of AFSPA

Mail News Service New Delhi, Sep 11 : Working Group on Human Rights in India and the UN (WGHR) – a coalition of Indian civil society organisations and independent experts – calls for an immediate repeal of the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) 1958, on its 55th anniversary. The AFSPA has continued to be […]

Mail News Service
New Delhi, Sep 11 : Working Group on Human Rights in India and the UN (WGHR) – a coalition of Indian civil society organisations and independent experts – calls for an immediate repeal of the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) 1958, on its 55th anniversary.
The AFSPA has continued to be an excuse for suppression and impunity for the last 55 years. The law and the violence and illegality committed under its protection have alienated the people of the North Eastern States and Jammu and Kashmir. For 13 years force-fed and forgotten, Irom Sharmila, has determinedly laid her life on the line for its repeal.
The Supreme Court did uphold its constitutionality in 1997 but at the same time warned that prolonged and too frequent deployment of armed forces for handling such situation is likely to generate a feeling of alienation amongst the armed forces.

Earlier this year, Justice Verma, the architect of 1997 judgment, sitting as Chair of Committee on Amendments to Criminal Law pertaining to violence against women recommended, in a change of heart, that so far as sexual offences are concerned, the need to obtain sanction from the central government for prosecution, suit or other legal proceeding shall be dropped. The government has ignored the recommendation. This is despite the affirmation of Union Home Ministry’s Committee to Review Armed Forces Special Powers Act’s recommendation that AFSPA’s constitutional legality is “not an endorsement of the desirability or advisability of the Act (…) the Act, for whatever reason, has become a symbol of oppression, an object of hate and an instrument of discrimination and high-handedness. It is highly desirable and advisable to repeal this Act, altogether (..).” The same position is endorsed by the 2nd Administrative Reform Commission.
Most recently, following a PIL filed by the Extrajudicial Execution Victim Families Association, Manipur on 1528 alleged extrajudicial killings, the Supreme Court appointed Justice Santosh Hedge Commission, also agreed with the official Committee and Commission and observed that “though the Act gives sweeping powers to the security forces even to the extent of killing a suspect with protection against prosecution etc. the Act does not provide any protection to the citizens against possible misuse of these extraordinary powers”.
After his 2012 visit to India, Mr. Christof Heyns, UN Special Rapporteur on Summary, Arbitrary and Extra-Judicial Executions, presented a report at the 23rd session of the Human Rights Council, Geneva, in which he concluded, “that retaining a law such as AFSPA runs counter to the principles of democracy and human rights. Its repeal will bring domestic law more in line with international standards, and send a strong message that the Government is committed to respect the right to life of all people in the country.” He also observed that “the powers granted under AFSPA are in reality broader than that allowable under a state of emergency as the right to life may effectively be suspended under the Act and the safeguards applicable in a state of emergency are absent.WGHR strongly recommends the Government of India that it initiates the necessary legal reforms and policy measures in order to end impunity and diminish the level of unlawful killings.
WGHR, therefore, once again calls for the repeal of the Armed Forces Special Powers Act.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/working-group-on-human-rights-in-india-and-the-un-wghr-calls-for-repeal-of-afspa/

Computerisation of land records of valley areas within March : CM

Mail News Service NNN Imphal, Sep 11 : The CM O. Ibobi said the process of computerization of land records of four valley districts will be completed within March next. He was speaking at the distribution function of computerised land records of Bishnupur district at Mini Secretariat, Loukoipat today. He also gave away computerized pattas […]

Chief Minister, during inaugural function of computerization of land record under national land records moderniztion programme at Bishenpur

Chief Minister, during inaugural function of computerization of land record under national land records moderniztion programme at Bishenpur

Mail News Service NNN
Imphal, Sep 11 : The CM O. Ibobi said the process of computerization of land records of four valley districts will be completed within March next.
He was speaking at the distribution function of computerised land records of Bishnupur district at Mini Secretariat, Loukoipat today. He also gave away computerized pattas to three persons.
The CM further said, he felt happy as the pattas are computerized. Although 64 villages have been completed for this process.
The CM also laid the foundation stone for the construction of Bishnupur district sports complex at Phubala.
He said Manipur is the power house of sports of India. Manipur is known to others through sports. The govt. is trying to construct a sports complex each in all districts.
The sports complex will be completed within two years and inaugural function will be held when other complexes are completed. Football, hockey, multipurpose hall, 60-bedded hostel will accommodate the Rs. nine croes, 40 lakhs spoorts complex.
The complex will also be constructed at sub-division level he further said., Bishnupur has become the first district to have computerised land records in the state and the remaining districts are expected to complete the process by March 31 next year.
Making a speech at the function organsied by Youth Affairs and Sports Department (YAS), Ibobi said the sports complex will be constructed at a total cost of Rs 90.80 crore to be funded by the Non- Lapsable Central Pool of Resources (NLCPR) of DoNER ministry.
He assured that the three-year project will be completed within two years since the state Government is planning to build it on war footing from October or November of the current year.
The complex will have its main gallery, hockey ground, multipurpose hall, a 60-bedded hostel for players and a quarter for coaches, he said. Ibobi later on visited the INA Complex at Moirang in Bishnupur district where he inspected the under construction underground parking. He also visited the Takmu Water Sports Complex and Sendra Tourist spot.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/computerisation-of-land-records-of-valley-areas-within-march-cm/

Centre, state oblivious of border problem : UCM

IMPHAL, Sep 11 NNN: The United Committee Manipur (UCM) said Wednesday the present Manipur and Central Governments have no explicit knowledge of the state’s actual boundary area along the Indo-Myanmar border, announcing it would launch a mass movement to push for a final settlement to the alleged flawed boundary fencing and demanded for a demarcation […]

IMPHAL, Sep 11 NNN: The United Committee Manipur (UCM) said Wednesday the present Manipur and Central Governments have no explicit knowledge of the state’s actual boundary area along the Indo-Myanmar border, announcing it would launch a mass movement to push for a final settlement to the alleged flawed boundary fencing and demanded for a demarcation of the border to determine the state’s political boundary.
Talking to mediapersons at the UCM office here, the committee’s president Y Nabachandra demanded that the Central and Manipur Government take steps for demarcation of the alleged disputed Indo-Myanmar border to determine the definite political boundary of the state. Manipur Government should convene an emergency special session of the state assembly to discuss the border issue and bring an ultimate solution, he further demanded.
He said UCM had earlier on September 1 organised a seminar on the border issue here at Imphal Hotel to seek advice from intellectuals on the matter which is very sensitive by nature.
The discussion came after a team of the committee visited the border to oversee the Indo-Myanmar Border Fencing, he said.This was followed by a technical session held at the committee’s office yesterday to deliberate on the next course of action, Nabachandra informed, adding six resolutions were taken during the session.
It resolved the territorial integrity of the state should not be severed at any cost and the concerned should immediately stop taking such steps. An emergency special assembly session should be convened by the Government to discuss on the border issue and take resolutions to bring a final solution.
Any sort of fence construction on the Indo-Myanmar border must be immediately discontinued until the dispute is ended by a political solution, it resolved.
It also resolved that the state Government should bring out a white paper on the issue. Further resolved that a coordinating committee comprises of social organizations and leaders of the ethnic communities of Manipur will be set up to deal with the issue and launch a mass agitation to fulfill all the demands.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/centre-state-oblivious-of-border-problem-ucm/

SUPCM’s celebrates 40th Fresher’s Meet

Imphal Sep 11 UNA : Hundreds of students of Presidency College Motbung gathered at the Jubilee Hall to celebrated the 40th Fresher’s Meet 2013 organized by the Students’ Union Presidency College Motbung on Wednesday. The event was graced by Shri. Tongminlen Haokip, Jr.MCS, SDO/BDO Chandel District, Khengjoi Block as Chief Guest while Dr. T.Gangte, Principal […]

Imphal Sep 11 UNA : Hundreds of students of Presidency College Motbung gathered at the Jubilee Hall to celebrated the 40th Fresher’s Meet 2013 organized by the Students’ Union Presidency College Motbung on Wednesday.
The event was graced by Shri. Tongminlen Haokip, Jr.MCS, SDO/BDO Chandel District, Khengjoi Block as Chief Guest while Dr. T.Gangte, Principal Presidency College Motbung and Y.Biren Singh, Associate Professor, Chemistry, Presidency College, Motbung attended the event as Guest of Honour and Functional President respectively. All teaching staffs of the College apart from the special invitees attended the event .
During the celebration event, various cultural dance were on display by different cultural troupe including Pahlingnei Cultural Troupe, Presidency College Cultural Troupe, Chungmang Pathen(PYC), etc.
A prominient Kuki Pop Artiste Lovejoy and others like Boipu Khongsai, DJ.Kay, Chongneo Khongsai, Kamgoulen Joewa and Golden Age Band enthralled the audience with their performance in the event.
The audience had a great time listening to Lovejoy hit songs like “Gamtui Theng”, “Thangvan Ponkang Sil”.
One of the highlight of the event which charged up the crowd was the Westerndance from Pipi & Lulun, Pahhoi & Party, Themshi & Friends as well as Kh.Mangpi.
“Enjoy your College life with positive attitude and approach” noted the event Chief Guest while adding that a good student always maintained the value of Education well in positive path.
Dr.T.Gangte urges the freshers and other students to tread on the example of humility in greatness, necessity of continual learning and significance of student involvement in social services as examplified by respectable high ranking top official in the state as well as in central service who are once good pupils of the college.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/supcms-celebrates-40th-freshers-meet/

55 long years under AFSPA

IMPHAL, Sept 11 NNN : The Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) is 55 years old today and the people affected by this ‘black Act’ have come all along protesting for over half a century against the Act but the largest democracy in the world, India is unperturbed and callous. The United Naga Council (UNC), […]

IMPHAL, Sept 11 NNN : The Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) is 55 years old today and the people affected by this ‘black Act’ have come all along protesting for over half a century against the Act but the largest democracy in the world, India is unperturbed and callous.
The United Naga Council (UNC), Sharmila Kanba Lup (Save Sharmila Movement) and Just-Peace Foundation (JPF) today strongly advocated for the repeal of AFSPA.
“As an organisation, we also demand for the repeal of AFSPA at the earliest,” said UNC president L Adani while talking to NNN.
Meanwhile, Sharmila Kanba Lup, a movement supporting hunger striker Irom Sharmila has termed today, the September 11 as Black Day’.
On September 11, 1958, the AFSPA came into existence.
Women folks under the banner of Sharmila Kanba Lup carried out sit-in-protest today to mark the day near (JNIMS), Porompat in Imphal.
Also marking the occasion, Just Peace Foundation, Imphal questions the rationality of continuing imposition of AFSPA by the government for over half a century.
“In many parts of the North East India, the Act has been in operation for all these 55 years generating and invigorating this feeling of alienation,” said the Just Peace Foundation in a communique made available to the media houses today. It then pointed out several instances where numerous government constituted review committees on AFSPA going against the continuing of the Act.
The JPF cited the reports of the 2005 Committee to Review the Armed Forces Special Powers Act, the Supreme Court appointed Santosh Hegde Commission and many others.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/55-long-years-under-afspa/

BSNL introduces 3G at Tamenglong

TAMENGLONG, Sept 11-The Bharat Sansar Nigam Limited(BSNL) has started to introduce 3G internet services connectivity in Manipur’s Tamenglong in the current year. This was disclosed by M Maheshkumar Telecom Technical Assistant of BSNL during the question and answer session soon after delivering his presentation on BSNL’s activities in the backward district of the state on […]

TAMENGLONG, Sept 11-The Bharat Sansar Nigam Limited(BSNL) has started to introduce 3G internet services connectivity in Manipur’s Tamenglong in the current year.
This was disclosed by M Maheshkumar Telecom Technical Assistant of BSNL during the question and answer session soon after delivering his presentation on BSNL’s activities in the backward district of the state on the first day of the on-going 3 day 15thBharat Nirman Public Information Campaign which was organized by Press Information Bureau (PIB)Government of India,Imphal in collaboration with Directorate of Field Publicity(DFP),Directorate of Advertising and Visual Publicity, Song and Drama Division, All Indian Radio and Doordarshan and District administration of Tamenglong at Town Baptist Church Hall in Tamenglong district today.
He also admitted that the BSNL is planning to launch Wi-max internet service in the hill district headquarter, about 150 km west of the state capital soon once the necessary infrastructure are established.
There are three 2G Base Trans-receiver (BTS)mobile towers, one each of 3G BTS and WLLtowersin Tamenglong district headquarters.There are limitations for setting up of BTS towers as it requires proper infrastructures.
But unfortunately one BTS tower is going down in Tamenglong since the last four/five days back due to frequent cut down on the existing Optical Fibre Cable(OFC)located somewhere along the 40 km stretch of Tamenglong headquarter and Khongsang points, he added.
So far BSNL has been providing telephone and internet broadband services to 410 landline telephone subscribers and 50 broadband telephone services.
Seeking public help and cooperation from the general public of the district the BSNL official also admitted that the up-gradation works of the BSNL services are still on in the district.
The AADHAR number, a unique identity numberof every citizen of the country, issued by government of India will remain valid for their lifetime. This AADHAR number will serve as Identity of a person anywhere in India. It is a must for the citizens to enrolfortheir respective AADHAR numberin the country.
This was stated by Senior Journalist Salam Enaomacha during the first day technical session of the on-going the Bharat Nirman Public Information Campaign at Town Baptist Church Tamenglong organized by Press Information Bureau, Government of India, Imphal in collaboration with DAVP, DFP, Song & Drama Division, Prasar Bharati and District Administration Tamenglong, today.
“The Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) scheme will prevent the misuse of subsidy amounts provided by the government for every beneficiaryas the government authority or the implementing agencies will directly deposit their money to their respective bank accounts which are linked to Aadhar number”, Enaomacha added. However at present, since many beneficiaries are still to be provided the Aadhar card, the benefits are deposited to the bank accounts even without the Aadhar number.
Under the scheme, all LPG consumers with Aadhar numbers and whose bank accounts linked to Aadhar numbers will be given and advance amount of Rs 435/- per cylinder booked, immediately on booking a cylinder.While the LPG cylinders will be supplied at the market price,the subsidised amount will be credited automatically in their accounts.
It may be mentioned that the DBT which was launched on January 1 this year in 43 districts in 16 states and union territories for 25 schemes, also aims to cover some of the central sponsored schemes such as Indira Gandhi Matritiva SahyongYojana,Dhanlakshmi scheme, Janani SurakshaYojana,housing subsidy for beedi workers, stipend for SC/ST for coaching , guidance and vocational training.
A public discussion on Aadhar and DBT followed by another quiz among the school students of Tamenglong at the concluding part of the technical session. Later magic show and a theme based short play by artists of the Song and Drama Division,Imphal enthralled the gathering.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/bsnl-introduces-3g-at-tamenglong/

252 pregnant women benefited under JSSK in Tamenglong

TAMENGLONG: The newly implemented Janani Shishu Suraksha Karyaram (JSSK) scheme which entitles pregnant women delivering in public health institutions to absolutely free and no expense delivery including caesarean section under the National Rural Health Mission(NRHM), has benefited as many as 252 pregnant women in Manipur’s Tamenglong. This was stated by District Program Manager Ms Abuana […]

TAMENGLONG: The newly implemented Janani Shishu Suraksha Karyaram (JSSK) scheme which entitles pregnant women delivering in public health institutions to absolutely free and no expense delivery including caesarean section under the National Rural Health Mission(NRHM), has benefited as many as 252 pregnant women in Manipur’s Tamenglong.
This was stated by District Program Manager Ms Abuana Gonmei of NRHM, Tamenglong on the first technical session of the 3 day Bharat Nirman Public Information Campaign on the flagship programs of the Central government at Tamenglong today.
She said ASHAs(Accredited Social Health Activist)and the health workers are mobilizing the interior village women in their village. They are the back born of the National Rural Health Mission in Tamenglong, she added and narrated the role and activities of ASHAs.
She said that another new scheme called Adolescence Friendly Health Clinic also launch six clinics in Tamenglong for all adolescence who did not want to consult their health problems to their parents. The adolescence may consult the doctor on every Friday afternoon(2-4 pm).
The district program manager also revealed that the first referral district hospital Tamenglongis running acute shortage of manpower as it has only 20 doctors against around 50 each in the other district hospitals. However besides 252 ASHAs, there are around 11 staff nurses,27 ANMs,12 ASHA felicitators and 6 Ayush doctors under NRHM Tamenglong.
“No one is willing to be posted in Tamenglong due to many reasons including lack of infrastructure, lack of electricity or bad telecommunication etc ”, Abuana opined. The Operation Theatre building has completed but there is no special doctor posted here, to be functional the district hospital has organized two surgical camps in the recent time where as many as 26 major and 17 minor cases were operated successfully. The next surgical camp would be organized in November 2013, she informed.
She further said that the District Mobile Medical Unit has organized 103 camps till date despite having Ultra- sound machine due to lack of technician.
She also mentioned that under NRHM scheme in Tamenglong, Village Health Sanitation Committee also formed with the village authority with ASHAs as president and secretary of the committee respectively. The District Health Mission Society has sanctioned some fund to organize awareness campaign on health and sanitation. “The committee is responsible for any health program or issues related to the health in their respective village”, she said. “As many as 15 government schools have been covered this year besides conducting school health programme”.
Later a public interaction followed by a quiz competition among the school students were also held in the day’s afternoon session.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/252-pregnant-women-benefited-under-jssk-in-tamenglong/

Stand of UKLF in regard to Kuki black day

MNS:- David Haokip, Secretary, Deptt. of Political Affairs, Govt of Khulmigam(UKLF) today said 13 September every year is observed as Kuki Black Day by some section of Kuki people since the last some years. It was on this day the largest numbers of innocent Kukis were eliminated in 1993 at few different places at the […]

MNS:- David Haokip, Secretary, Deptt. of Political Affairs, Govt of Khulmigam(UKLF) today said 13 September every year is observed as Kuki Black Day by some section of Kuki people since the last some years. It was on this day the largest numbers of innocent Kukis were eliminated in 1993 at few different places at the time when the Naga-Kuki ethnic clash was at its peak.
However, being a peace loving organization, the UKLF is not in favour of observing the day as Kuki Black day owing to some pertinent reasons. We have consulted several church leaders, peace loving individuals, social and political leaders and we came to the conclusion that observing the day as BLACK day will bring nothing good to the society as a whole. Hence, we used to speak out our mind to the public disfavouring its observance many times in the past as wel as in the present. But in this particular point we are being misunderstood by some people even in our own community. Neverthless we cannot remain a silent spectator when we have a commitment to bring peace and tranquility in the society.
Therefore, we have decided that there will be no Black Day observance in UKLF operation area and any body who defied this decision/order shall be dealt with accordingly.
We requested the Kuki church leaders, Pastors/Reverents, social and political leaders to think deeply on the matter and take a decision whether it is in line with the principle of the Bible or not. The Bible’s focal points are forgiving and forgetting the mistakes/misdeeds of others. Peace, unity, harmony, oneness and cooperation among human beings are the main theme of the Bible. There might be a time when we lost love and harmony among us and go into war with one another but we must also have a time to forgive and forget the past unwanted happenings. This is all about the divine law found in the Holy Bible. But whether we put this into practice or not is purely in our hands.
It is also a a request to the general public to ponder seriously and think for the demerits and merits of the actions and thoughts we have. We the UKLF is of the opinion that it will do no good to the society. This is what we believe and accordingly taken a stand point. Our assertion is that remembering and observing the day as such will only renew the past bitter memories which will obstruct the road to peace and social harmony.
Some of the people who supported the Black day say that the day is not for vengeance but for peace and social harmony between the two communities but the result of it seems to be the other way round. Of course we may not openly instigate the people to pound upon and wage war on the other community but it will be a spring well of hatred and animosity against the other which could be a harbinger of another conflict in future.
Black day, though observed by some section of the Kukis, many of the 22 Kuki tribes are not observing it. Thus, the term Kuki Black day is not correct since all the Kukis are not part of it.
Now it also learn that some Kuki people are attempting of erecting memorial stones to remember those Kuki wictims of the Naga Kuki conflict. These people might have anumber of justifications to justify their actions but it will only elongate the memories of those days and the ugly incidents are not erased for good.
Thus, UKLF is not infavour of it. If we want to erect memorial stone we may do so for a particular village or a family but not for the entire Kuki community as it may be a permanent obstacle in process of peace and reconciliation in the society.
We should keep in mind that 20 year before and today is not the same. Time is fast changing and yesterday and today is not the same. We must think for the future more than the present. In the past we might have many mistakes and committed heinous crimes but we cannot be on that path of life always. We should be able change ourselves with the changing of time otherwise we shall be left behind. Looking back and busy recalling and recollecting the past things are doing more harms than good in most cases.
Now is the time to reconciles and come together for building a better future. Singularity is not appreciated since the call of the time is for unity and cooperation. Brethren Nagas had been singularly struggling hard for the last so many decades but achieve very little. They might have suffered heavy casulities in the processes but in the field of achivement it is so little.The Kukis, though late in the field of politics, are also following the footstep of the Nagas and they are likely to end up at nothing if they are not wise enough before it is too late. If the two communities forgive and forget the past and walk hand in hand they may have future other wise a big avelanche is ahead of them.
Right from the beginning, the UKLF has been striving for unity, peace and social harmony in the society. We did whatever we could to achieve something to this end though our success rate is still not up to the mark. We left no stone unturn to bring the two communities back to normalcy particularly after the so call Naga Kuki ethnic clash of the early 90s. Disfavouring Kuki Black Day is one basic step to endeavour our mission. We might be misunderstood by some but we are very clear in our vision and mission.
Now let us be intelligent and careful for the future ahead of us. Let the by-gone be by-gone. We must look for the things a head and not behind us. All farsighted and right thinking citizens should not opt for conflicts and confrontations. We must apply the best intention we have not to allow past bitter experiences to resurface. We must give peace a chance so that security to life come first and economic prosperity comes in the next. Then only we can enjoy the beauty of our blessed state – Manipur.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/stand-of-uklf-in-regard-to-kuki-black-day/

Rare python rescued in Manipur – Times of India

Rare python rescued in ManipurTimes of IndiaIMPHAL: Activists of People for Animals (PFA), Thoubal, have rescued a baby Indian rock python from the bank of the Thoubal river at Poiroukhongjin village in the district. Notably, the Indian rock python com…

Rare python rescued in Manipur
Times of India
IMPHAL: Activists of People for Animals (PFA), Thoubal, have rescued a baby Indian rock python from the bank of the Thoubal river at Poiroukhongjin village in the district. Notably, the Indian rock python comes under Schedule I, a list of the most

Read more / Original news source: http://news.google.com/news/url?sa=t&fd=R&usg=AFQjCNEHR7oajl4Z4C_1K-1ULP8qxbFZkA&url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/guwahati/Rare-python-rescued-in-Manipur/articleshow/22502027.cms

Memorandum of Understanding signed with three militant outfits in Manipur – Economic Times

Memorandum of Understanding signed with three militant outfits in ManipurEconomic TimesIMPHAL: Manipur government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with three militant outfits under which the ultras will hold talks with the state governmen…

Memorandum of Understanding signed with three militant outfits in Manipur
Economic Times
IMPHAL: Manipur government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with three militant outfits under which the ultras will hold talks with the state government, official sources said here today. The MOU was signed on Monday between 

Read more / Original news source: http://news.google.com/news/url?sa=t&fd=R&usg=AFQjCNHnNsW91Qj38-EYyY7R1lz3WTxYIA&url=http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/memorandum-of-understanding-signed-with-three-militant-outfits-in-manipur/articleshow/22480398.cms

MoU signed with three militant outfits in Manipur – Zee News

MoU signed with three militant outfits in ManipurZee NewsImphal: Manipur government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with three militant outfits under which the ultras will hold talks with the state government, official sources said on We…

MoU signed with three militant outfits in Manipur
Zee News
Imphal: Manipur government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with three militant outfits under which the ultras will hold talks with the state government, official sources said on Wednesday. The MOU was signed on Monday between 

Read more / Original news source: http://news.google.com/news/url?sa=t&fd=R&usg=AFQjCNHUo_E7_byV_GvX-KvEabBSHJmPmQ&url=http://zeenews.india.com/news/north-east/mou-signed-with-three-militant-outfits-in-manipur_875737.html

Manipuri table tennis prodigy sets eyes on state championship – The New Indian Express

Manipuri table tennis prodigy sets eyes on state championshipThe New Indian ExpressSeven-yearold Manipuri boy Shoiab Akhtar, fondly called Abdullah, can barely see the net on the table tennis board because of his tiny figure. However, the state's t…

Manipuri table tennis prodigy sets eyes on state championship
The New Indian Express
Seven-yearold Manipuri boy Shoiab Akhtar, fondly called Abdullah, can barely see the net on the table tennis board because of his tiny figure. However, the state's third seed in the mini cadets section, a product of Table Tennis Academy, Kozhikode, is

Read more / Original news source: http://news.google.com/news/url?sa=t&fd=R&usg=AFQjCNHVjVHp8NDdO4P5CdSe7UMCefNp6g&url=http://newindianexpress.com/states/kerala/Manipuri-table-tennis-prodigy-sets-eyes-on-state-championship/2013/09/11/article1779057.ece

Former militants beat up cop in Manipur – The Hindu

Former militants beat up cop in ManipurThe HinduThe Union Home Ministry is understood to have taken a serious view on the increasing blatant violations of the ground rules of the suspension of operations by some signatories in Manipur. The latest appal…

Former militants beat up cop in Manipur
The Hindu
The Union Home Ministry is understood to have taken a serious view on the increasing blatant violations of the ground rules of the suspension of operations by some signatories in Manipur. The latest appalling violation was the beating up of a police

Read more / Original news source: http://news.google.com/news/url?sa=t&fd=R&usg=AFQjCNG8yq4gfSrS3n_BNUij-xeyIfUDUg&url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/other-states/former-militants-beat-up-cop-in-manipur/article5115610.ece?homepage=true

Former militants beat up cop in Manipur – The Hindu

The HinduFormer militants beat up cop in ManipurThe HinduThe Union Home Ministry is understood to have taken a serious view on the increasing blatant violations of the ground rules of the suspension of operations by some signatories in Manipur. The lat…


The Hindu

Former militants beat up cop in Manipur
The Hindu
The Union Home Ministry is understood to have taken a serious view on the increasing blatant violations of the ground rules of the suspension of operations by some signatories in Manipur. The latest appalling violation was the beating up of a police

Read more / Original news source: http://news.google.com/news/url?sa=t&fd=R&usg=AFQjCNE2DNeAYeJ-T3rWJzgZtb5TiMt5RA&url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/other-states/former-militants-beat-up-cop-in-manipur/article5115610.ece

Oh deer! Manipur’s sangai needs a second home – E-Pao.net

Oh deer! Manipur's sangai needs a second homeE-Pao.netThe search for a second home for the sangai (Rucervus eldi eldi) — an endangered species of deer found in Manipur — has begun with five sites being examined for its suitability. The examined…

Oh deer! Manipur's sangai needs a second home
E-Pao.net
The search for a second home for the sangai (Rucervus eldi eldi) — an endangered species of deer found in Manipur — has begun with five sites being examined for its suitability. The examined sites are the reserve forests of Heingang and Langol in

Read more / Original news source: http://news.google.com/news/url?sa=t&fd=R&usg=AFQjCNEIlQBlndj0njtOGlg9mvdShZ94pA&url=http://e-pao.net/epSubPageSelector.asp?src=Oh_deer_Manipur_sangai_needs_a_second_home_20130911&ch=news_section&sub1=News_Links&sub2=News_Links_2013

Governor’s, R.k. Sanatombi awards given

Mail News Service Imphal, Sep 10 : Dr. Ashwani Kumar, Governor of Manipur and Nagaland today presented Governor’s and RK Sanatombi awards at Asha and Jina hall. Addressing the function he said “It is a pleasure and a privilege for me to be here today, at the presentation and felicitation ceremony of the prestigious awards, […]

Mail News Service
Imphal, Sep 10 : Dr. Ashwani Kumar, Governor of Manipur and Nagaland today presented Governor’s and RK Sanatombi awards at Asha and Jina hall. Addressing the function he said “It is a pleasure and a privilege for me to be here today, at the presentation and felicitation ceremony of the prestigious awards, to the brightest students, best teachers, outstanding sports persons and the most dutiful traffic woman.
My heartiest congratulations to all the awardees and all the prize winners who have been conferred the awards and prizes today. It is no easy task to climb the highest peak in the worjd and it is no easy task to stand first in the class and to so excel in sports that you defeat all your competitors. We all know that it requires a lot of hard work, courage and dedication to make it to the top. Dear awardees, prize winners and summiteers, what you have achieved is creditable not only for you but the entire state of Manipur. It is time for you to feel happy and congratulate your self. At the same time, please do not forget to thank those who have helped you to reach this height. While you struggled, your parents were praying for you. Your teachers, mentors and coaches gave you all the guidance you needed. I am sure you received moral and financial support from your families. Without these, you will agree with me, it would have been difficult or even impossible for you to succeed. Therefore, this is the time to acknowledge the contribution made by others in your success and express your gratitude to those who have helped you in your journey to the top.
On behalf of the Government of Manipur, on behalf of the people of Manipur and on my own behalf, I compliment the individuals and Institutions for making this happen. At this stage I must thank the members of the selection committee for helping me decide the recipients of Governor’s Award and the same committee for selecting the R.K. Sanatombi Awardees. They have done their work in choosing the best candidates in a most transparent and impartial manner.
I also thank the Managing Committee of RKSD Vidyalayas, especially it’s Chairman, Padmashri Haridas Singh ji, for inviting me and my wife to participate in these celebrations. You have given us an opportunity to visit this place called the Asha-Jina Complex. Had it not been for this invitation, we would not have known who is ‘ Asha’ and who is ‘ Jina1 and how important this complex is for Imphal.
Ladies and gentlemen, I consider it a privilege to be given this opportunity to distribute the awards and address all of you gathered here today. I am aware that among the audience we have so many intellectuals, educationists, leaders of political parties/civil society, media persons and most important of all, the best( teachers and students. I have been most impressed reading about the social work being done by The Leirik Memorial Charitable Society in the field of Health and Education. I have been told that this Society and RKSDV institutions have been providing excellent services to the community in Health and Education since the early 1980′s.

These days we come across many,individuals and Institutions whose only task is to keep criticizing others and pointing out what is wrong with us and what is -wrong with Our society. They specialize in finding faults rather than in finding solutions. On the other hand, here in Manipur, we are fortunate to h.ave with us, the perfect example of individuals and Institutions, who have been voluntarily doing the noblest task, of looking after the sick and educating the students. We are indeed lucky to have amongst us illustrious personalities like Padamshri Haridas Singhji and his two daughters, Ashaji and Jinaji,. In fact, what they are doing is also a perfect example of how to pay lasting tribute to your partner and to your parents.
7. Two days ago, on 8th of September, the world celebrated the International Literacy Day. An interesting article in a newspaper, made a comparison of the literacy rates prevailing in various parts of the world. I was happy to read that our State of Manipur has made tremendous progress in the last few years. However, in comparison to many countries and states, we are still far behind. As per the comparative statistics, the world Literacy rate in 2011 was 84.1%. Whereas, the literacy rate of Manipur was only 79.85%. Our two neighboring states of north east India, Tripura and Mizoram have high literacy rates of 94.65% and 91.58% respectively. Similarly, the male literacy rate in the world was 88.6%, whereas, the male literacy in Manipur was 86.49%. The female literacy rate in the world was 79.9%, whereas, in Manipur it was 73.17%. Therefore, we all need to work much harder under the “Saakshar Bharat’ program to ensure that no one remains illiterate inManipur. We should implement the plans in right earnest and our target should be to make Manipur 100% literate in the next few years.
8. Dear students and dear friends, the best way of changing people and transforming society is through education. However, there are some individuals and groups among us, who believe in bringing about change through the use of force, through use of violence and through use of bullets and guns. Any change brought about through these means will not be lasting. It will be only temporary. History is testimony to the fact and our scriptures also say it, “Those who live by the sword, die by the sword.” It has been established through sociological studies, that the most effective and quickest way to change and transform society, is through the education of girls and women. It is said if you educate a woman you educate the whole family and Kofi Annan, the former Secretary General of United Nations has said, “To educate girls is to reduce poverty.” In management, they say educating females has a multiplier effect. »
9. I have had the opportunity of discussing the education scenario in Manipur with Shri Haridas Singh ji. He has also been kind to give me a written note pn the need to improvejtha quality_of education being imparted in the schools and colleges of our State. As per his analysis, there has been a decline in the quality and standards of our education in the last few years. I will urge the’ Govt. of Manipur, the Dy. CM and the Hon’ble Member of Parliament, present here today, to consider the various suggestions being made to improve the quality of education. I think there is an immediate need to link our courses and curriculum with the issues of livelihood and employment. We need to lay greater emphasis on vocational education and finding avenues of livelihood and self employment for all the girls and boys passing out each year from our Schools, Colleges and Universities.
10. I have something to say particularly the girl students of R.K.S.D. Vidyalayas. Dear girls, you are lucky having had this opportunity of studying in Schools like this. Shrimati RK Sanatombi Devi Ji, was not so fortunate, neither was my mother. You are also the brightest girls we have in our State. We are all proud of you and we have lots of hopes from you.
We are sure you will be the harbingers of change in our society. We hope, when you leave the precincts of this Institution, you will provide leadership to all your siblings and family members. Please remember to be always honest and truthful. Never tell lies. Remember to be always respectful to your parents, elders and teachers. However, high position you may attain in life, always remainhumble. We will pray for you. Our blessings and good wishes will always be with you.
11. In the end, I will like to once again congratulate all the award winners and prize winners. May you continue to achieve still greater heights in your chosen fields of study and sports. Those who missed the prizes or did not get any award need not feel disheartened. Sky is the limit for you.
There will always be a next time. I am sure each one of you is capable of the best and each one of you will get an opportunity to showcase your talent and make us and your parents proud of you. With these words and my blessings –

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/governors-r-k-sanatombi-awards-given/

Bandh suspended

NNN: The ongoing 72-hour Manipur hill districts bandh imposed by All Tribal Disabled Students’ Union (ATDSU) has been suspended today. “The bandh which began since Monday was suspended following numerous appeals from various quarters,” said ATDSU president Momo Tangtago. According to Momo, ATDSU has decided to suspend the ongoing bandh considering the hardship faced by […]

NNN: The ongoing 72-hour Manipur hill districts bandh imposed by All Tribal Disabled Students’ Union (ATDSU) has been suspended today. “The bandh which began since Monday was suspended following numerous appeals from various quarters,” said ATDSU president Momo Tangtago.
According to Momo, ATDSU has decided to suspend the ongoing bandh considering the hardship faced by the people.
“However, we will resort to other forms of democratic agitation if our demands are not met,” warned Momo.
Momo then expressed his gratitude on behalf of the ATDSU to the public for their co-operation in the last two days.
Anguished over Manipur Government’s negative response on its series of demands, the All Tribal Disabled Students’ Union (ATDSU) has called the 72-hour bandh in the hill districts of Manipur from September 8 midnight as the August 30 dateline set by the union to the Government ended.
ATDSU said the Government is not responding to the union’s legitimate demands that prompted it to take up the agitation. Due to lack of education, the tribal disabled people are unable to claim their rightful job quota in the Government establishments and these post vacancies have remained filled up by general candidates, it accused.
ADTSU had also on July 19 last sought an appointment from Social Welfare minister for discussion on its demands, but no positive response has been given till date, it said.
It has urged the state Social Welfare minister to realize the decentralization of the authority for issue of disability certificates and to set up a special school with hostel facility for tribal disabled students in one of the hill districts in the state, the union added. It said that physically challenged persons are first examined and treated at Jawaharlal Nehru Institute of Medical Sciences (JNIMS) Imphal and then related medical documents are submitted to the office of the Social Welfare which issues disability certificates to them after taking about four months time in the process.
This procedure adopted by the state Government has denied disability certificates to more than 70 percent disabled persons residing in far flung areas of the hill districts, it alleged.
At the same time, the union has demanded for setting up of a special school with hostel facility for the tribal disabled children and students in one of the hill districts of the state, it added.
It further said that there are a number of tribal disabled children in the hill areas intending to go to school, but they have failed to do so since they have certain problems of physical inactivities and the society at the same time discourages them to get education.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/bandh-suspended/

NPF demands halt of border fencing

IMPHAL, Sept 10 NNN: The NPF Manipur State unit demands immediate halt to the construction of border fencing in Chandel district of Manipur, bordering Myanmar until such time the international boundary is clearly demarcated by competent authorities of the two countries namely, India and Myanmar. “It is matter of surprise that that so called construction […]

IMPHAL, Sept 10 NNN: The NPF Manipur State unit demands immediate halt to the construction of border fencing in Chandel district of Manipur, bordering Myanmar until such time the international boundary is clearly demarcated by competent authorities of the two countries namely, India and Myanmar.
“It is matter of surprise that that so called construction of border fencing commenced immediately after the visit of a team led by O Ibobi, the Chief Minister of Manipur to Myanmar,” NPF, Manipur state communique signed by its serectary Athuan Abonmai said.
According to NPF, in the visit, Ibobi had offered to construct a hospital if the Myanmarese authorities could provide land. “Apart from that, sadly, what are the things transpired in the visit could not be for the benefit of the people. But, what is clear is that he had donned the role of a prime minister or external affairs minister of a country as the visit showed. An the construction of the border fencing discreetly,” the NPF added.
The NPF then said that it was only after a report on the illegal border fencing by an organization called Information Centre for Hill Areas of Manipur (ICHAM) that the state Government was quick enough to claim that it was only for security purpose.
“The question here is, if it is for security purposes why did the state Government set up the border fencing committee? And why and how should the Chief Minister and his deputy apprised the Prime Minister on this issue? It is all an eye wash and for how long the people have to be taken for granted by the Ibobi led Congress Government. Now, the security fencing could not control the infiltration/enchroachment of the Myanmarese as the Myanmar army has constructed base camp at Haolenphai village inside Indian territory right under the nose of the Indian authorities,” the NPF stated.
“When the people of Manipur particularly those at the border area are suffering due to loss of huge chunks of their land to Myanmar because of the border fencing, the state Government is claiming that it is only security fencing. Can it afford to barter away thousands of hectres of land to Myanmar in the name of border fencing? The NPF takes serious view over the nonchalant attitude of the state Government towards the pathetic plight of the people,” the NPF further said.
Notwithstanding the myriad ills already affecting the people of the state at large arising out of the total mismanagement of the Congress led Government in all fronts, it is even more unfortunate with regard to the latest issue of losing our territories along the international border due to the weak and corrupt policy of the state Government, it pointed out, adding., “At last, we wonder if New Delhi is aware of all these”.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/npf-demands-halt-of-border-fencing/

Medical college at Ccpur soon: Phungzathang

Churachandpur, Sept 10 MNS/NNN : Manipur Health minister Phungzathang Tongsing today said the Churachandpur District Hospital will be upgraded to a medical college soon. Tonsing said this to newsmen after carefully making an assessment of the Churachandpur District Hospital during a visit. He said that the 100-bedded hospital will be raised to 300 beds soon. […]

Churachandpur, Sept 10 MNS/NNN : Manipur Health minister Phungzathang Tongsing today said the Churachandpur District Hospital will be upgraded to a medical college soon.
Tonsing said this to newsmen after carefully making an assessment of the Churachandpur District Hospital during a visit. He said that the 100-bedded hospital will be raised to 300 beds soon.
The minister also said 10 more seats will be added to the 145 seats currently provided to the state for medical courses and therefore the total number of the seats will become 155, informing the Medical Council of India (MCI) has already given approval to this effect.
Tonsing further said the Government is all set to broaden the area of Jawaharlal Nehru Institute of Medical Sciences (JNIMS), Imphal complex to 10 more acre.
The minister was accompanied by Commerce and Industries minister Govindas Konthoujam, Parliamentary Secretaries M Pritiviraj and Vungzagin Valte, and Principal Secretary (Health) Dr Suhel Akhtar, Deputy Commissioner, Churachandpur district Jacintha Lazarus and other officials of Health Department and Family Welfare.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/medical-college-at-ccpur-soon-phungzathang/