Manipur Mail – Page 21

SoO with militants

AIZAWL, July 29 NNN : Only two days to go for the expiry of the current term of the Suspension of Operation (SoO) between the Government of Mizoram and the Hmar Peoples Convention-Democratic (HPC-D) but till today no new development on the issue has come up after the July 18 talks stalemate between the two parties in Aizawl.
The HPC-D informed Newmai News Network this evening that there is no point of extending the SoO term if there is not going to be a concrete political talk.
“The HPC (D) strongly felt that extension of SoO in Mizoram has no meaning if the prospect for a meaningful political dialogue is not put in place. The democratic interests and aspirations of the Hmar peoples should not de downplayed by a negligent and irresponsible delay tactics. The Hmars’ aspirations is to justly secure the Constitutional promises, which otherwise has marginalized us,” the Hmar militant outfit stated.
It worth mentioning here that the Suspension of Operation’ (SoO) was signed few years ago between the two parties for six months. However, after signing the earlier SoO, the relation between the HPC-D and the Mizoram government experienced a rough sailing.
On July 18, both the parties had a political talks at Conference Hall, Tourist Lodge, Chaltlang, Aizawl. The Government of Mizoram side was led by Lalbiakzama, Joint Secretary to the Government of Mizoram (Home Department), Ramthlengliana, SP, CID (SB), Lalchungnunga, Additional deputy commissioner, Aizawl district, Lalhriatpuia, Deputy Secretary (Home), David H. Lalthangliana, OSD (Home), Laltanpuia Sailo, Inspector (Interpreter). The HPC (D) delegates was led by LT Hmar, Working Chairman HPC(D), Lalchhanhima, Council Member HPC(D), Lalthalien (delegate), Joseph R. Hmar (delegate), Lalmuanpuia Punte (Spokesperson), Rohringa (delegate) and Lalremruata Varte (delegate).
Lalbiakzama, the designated team leader representing the Government of Mizoram presided the meeting. He welcomed and thanked the HPC(D) delegates for attending the dialogue and also appreciated the efforts of the HPC(D) in finding an amicable solution to the problems of the Hmar peoples in Mizoram.
LT Hmar, Working Chairman, HPC(D) submitted the memorandum of the HPC(D) that was addressed to the Chief Minister of Mizoram. The same memorandum was also addressed to the Governor of Mizoram, the Union Home Minister and Joint Secretary (North East), Government of India.
The HPC(D) memorandum termed the July 27, 1994 Memorandum of Settlement (MoS)/ Peace Accord that was signed between the Government of Mizoram and the Hmar Peoples Convention (HPC) a hollow political instrument; and not accepted by the HPC(D). Nineteen years after the signing of the MoS, it has proved to the world that the document holds no water and does not stand to fulfil the aspirations of the Hmar peoples to secure their political future.
In pursuance of the unfinished agenda of the Hmar peoples, the HPC(D) is committed to find a lasting, dignified and acceptable political solution to the Hmar’s aspirations with thecreation of Hmar Autonomous District Council in the state of Mizoram within the scope of the Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution. This will be of mutual benefit and based on the long-term interest of both the Sinlung originated Hmar peoples and the Government of Mizoram, the HMAR outfit said.
The HPC(D) said it remains fully and firmly committed not to seek separation from Mizoram but rather seek to find a permanent solution to the protracted Hmar issue in Mizoram, which is compatible with the principles enshrined in the Constitution of India. The HPC(D) firmly believes that to protect Hmar identity, culture, tradition, language, land, resources and to enhance political development and democratic decentralization in Mizoram, the only pragmatic option lies in the creation of Hmar Autonomous District Council.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/soo-with-militants/

Mizoram bandh on 30

AIZAWL, July 28 NNN: Mizo students are all set to impose total Aizawl bandh on July 30.
The Tuesday’s bandh will be imposed by Mizo Students Union (MSU) against state government’s failure to hand over the task of recruiting government employees to the Mizoram Public Service Commission (MPSC).
Leaders of the student body informed NNN that a total bandh will be imposed in and around the capital on coming July 30 and asked people’s cooperation in this regard.
The student body said that as per amendment of Regulations of Functions of Mizoram Public Service Commission (MPSC) in 2011, most of the recruitment is being transferred from MPSC to state government. The MSU is against this regulation of 2011 and now it is taking steps to reverse the ammendment of Regulations of Functions of the MPSC. MSU had approaced the state government on several occasions but the latter had turned a deaf ear to the plea of the students’ body.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/mizoram-bandh-on-30/

Don’t amend RTI Act without consulting NGOs, activists urge PM

New Delhi, July 28 (ANI): Prominent civil society activists have written to Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh and urged him not to introduce a bill to amend the Right to Information (RTI) Act without consulting the stakeholders as promised in Parliament.
The UPA government is considering amendment to the RTI Act to keep political parties out of its ambit.
Former National Advisory Council members Aruna Roy and Harsh Mander, along with RTI activists Shailesh Gandhi and Shekhar Singh, have written to Dr. Singh and warned that any amendment to the Act would further dampen the credibility of the Congress-led UPA government.
“India’s governance is going through a credibility crisis as never before, in which all sectors of governance and social formations have been suspect. The political establishment has come in for most severe criticism, just and unjust,” says the letter.
“Perhaps the only real argument for the credibility of the government continues to be the enactment and implementation of the RTI Act. It has been an entitlement which has kept the intent of a free and open system of governance afloat. The multiple uses of the Act to improve government functioning are so many that they defy enumeration. The use of the RTI is therefore seen as the one stated intent of the government to lay itself open to scrutiny, and therefore accountability,” the letter added.
It further said that the series of attempts to amend the Act, which have arisen periodically, have since 2006 been nullified to a large extent by public pressure as well as the political will of a part of the establishment and government.
“It is reported that the Government is considering the introduction of a bill in Parliament to amend the RTI law, as a sharp reaction to the recent Central Information Commission order, which declared six political parties to be public authorities under the RTI Act. Such a move to amend the Act will reinforce and confirm the suspicions of many that the political establishment intends to cover acts of corruption and arbitrary use of power,” it said.
The activists also said: “We, as citizens of India, empowered by the RTI Act, demand that it not be amended. The Act has enabled the making of informed choices and strengthened participatory democracy; by enabling the citizens of India to monitor and access services throughout the country. Any amendment to the RTI Act would undermine and weaken the process of realizing various constitutional promises. In 2009, when amendments were being proposed to the RTI Act, the concerned minister of the government had assured Parliament, in response to a question, that “Non- Governmental Organisations and Social activists will be consulted on the proposed amendments.” We would, therefore, expect the government to hold wide ranging public discussions before they think of amending the law in any way.”
“We are confident that the government will recognise the force of our demand and not take steps to amend and thereby dilute the Right to Information law, which has been acknowledged in India and abroad, as an affirmation of the right of Indian citizens to participate in, and monitor, democratic governance,” they added.

Two labourers kidnapped

IMPHAL, July 28: Two labourers engaged in the Island Block office building construction in Saikul area have been abducted by suspected Kuki underground cadres from the work site on Friday at around 8 pm, according to Island Block Development Committee (IBDC) chairman Winson Jajo and its secretary AS Leishipem.
The labourers have been identified as Isaac Shinglai (49), s/o (L) Phaningkhui of Island village and Th. Ibochou (37) s/o (L) Pakirot of Khurai Konsam Leikai, Imphal.
The Island Block Development Committe (IBDC), Saikul has vehemently condemned the incident.
Winson Jajo and AS Leishipem said the labourers are merely wage earners and have nothing to do with any matter relating to the construction works.
“Therefore, every right thingking citizen should condemn such heinous activities committed on the innocent labourers by the militants,” said Winson Jajo and AS Leishipem.
The IBDC appeals the concern militant outfit to kindly release the two labourers without any condition in public interest.
“Moreover, the IBCD, appeals to all militant organisations to shun all sort of disturbances in the construction work of Island Block office so that the people of Island Block irrespective of Kukis and Nagas can benefit together from it,” Winson and Leishipem stated.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/two-labourers-kidnapped/

MoU for Imphal-Mandalay bus service ready

Imphal Jul 28 UNA: With a hint of beginning the long awaited Imphal-Mandalay bus service, Centre has sought the opinion of the Manipur government pertaining to the contents of the Memorandum of Understanding to be signed between India and Myanmar for the service. Following improving relationship between the two nighbouring counties and considering the developments […]

Following improving relationship between the two nighbouring counties and considering the developments towards India’s Look East Policy, the Imphal-Mandalay bus service was expected to commence from this current month.
However, it was delayed pending mandatory ground works like setting up of passport and visa office in Manipur which the processes were under progress. The Centre has recently agreed to open visa office at Moreh, the border town of Manipur at the border with Myanmar and immigration office.
International Cooperation Division of Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, Government of India, has sent the draft copy of MoU and protocol with regard to the bus service to the state government to peruse the copy and rework the contents if it wishes, an official source said Sunday.
The source said, MoU and protocol is likely to be signed soon as both the governments are eyeing commencement of the bus service after the monsoon season. The bus service would originate from Imphal and Mandalay as per the proposal.
However, there would be a changeover at Moreh and Tamu, border town of Myanmar and passengers would be transferred at the cross-border points to a vehicle of the other country, given the variance in traffic procedures and driving styles as Myanmar has left-hand-driven vehicles.
Route permit within Myanmar is to be given by its government while route permit within Imphal will be given by Manipur government. Passengers from both sides will have to go through check-in procedures by immigration officials at Moreh and Tamu.
There is a 184-km stretch road that needs repair between Kalewa and Monywa on Myanmar side. Indian government had constructed 120 kms of the road stretch and the remaining portion is being left for Myanmar government as per agreement, the source added.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/mou-for-imphal-mandalay-bus-service-ready/

Seminar on Police and Press held

CM, Ibobi addressing seminar at MR on Monday.

Imphal Jul 28 MNS/UNA: Manipur chief minister O Ibobi Singh Sunday stressed the need for a serious introspection to the solve the problem of smuggling and abuse of psychotropic substances in the state, asserting that inspite of stringent laws and Acts, “many unscrupulous and selfish people appear to be still indulging in smuggling of such substances.”
Addressing the inaugural function of a one-day seminar cum workshop on relationship between police and media held at the banquet hall of the 1st Battalion Manipur Rifles Sunday, the chief minister said that inspite of the stringent laws and Acts enacted by the government there appeared to be rampant misused of this (psychotropic) substance.
Reiterating that many unscrupulous and selfish people were still appear indulging in smuggling of such substances, the chief minister said that the law enforcing agencies like police and the Army are no exception to such illicit trades.
As a result of this, “We failed to see its reduction,” he said, adding “should we go for its profitability unchecked without caring for its ill effects to the society.”
“We need a serious introspection to solve the problem before more damage is done,” the chief minister said, observing the problem becoming so pervasive and stressing the urgent step to stop this menace.
The seminar cum workshop jointly organized by the Manipur police and All Manipur Working Journalists’ Union (AMWJU) mainly concentrated on the role of media and police in dealing with crime against women, mob justice and smuggling and abuse of psychotropic substances which were on the raised in Manipuri society.
In his address at the inaugural function, the chief minister asserted media working in tandem with the academicians and law enforcing agencies was the need of the hour.
“The role of media in bringing awareness of these social evils to the general public and persuade even the crime prone persons to desist from committing crimes may perhaps be possible when media in tandem with the academicians, law enforcing agencies like the police is the need of the hour,” he said.
Media, academicians and law enforcing agencies were the moist powerful stakeholders in the society and they have to evolve a means to confront this menace concertedly, he added.
The seminar cum workshop was organized under the theme, “how police and media can work in tandem o deliver better justice to the people.”
Speakers and panelists including the chief minister defined “mob justice” as taking the law into one’s own hand without going into the allegations of crimes by the mob. In the process the lives and properties of alleged perpetrators were inflicted or destroyed then and there without cross checking the alleged crimes.
“Very often such justice violates individual’s human rights.
Initiation of such action without going to through the legal process of police investigation often resulted to the acquittal of the criminals in the courts,” chief minister O Ibobi observed.
The seminar observed a raise in the crime against women in Manipuri society. Despite widespread media coverage and public disapproval, incidents of such crimes against women are increasing and seriously affecting the society.
Image of the society which was once considered very respectful to the womenfolk in the past has been tarnished.
“Unless something is done in time our society will not be safe for the womenfolk to venture out alone and in lonely places. Ways to check this crime is the need of the hour,” Ibobi said, sharing his opinion during the seminar.
State revenue and law minister Th Devendro and president of the All Manipur Working Journalists’ Union’s Wangkhemcha Shamjai attended the function as president and guest of honour of the inaugural function which the chief minister attended as chief guest.
In the first session of the seminar talkers namely K Sarojkumar Sharma, correspondent of The Times of India, M Rajen, additional SP Imphal East, Dr Homen, Prof of Bodhachandra College delivered speech on mob justice. Dr M. Mohendra, former member of steering committee, NER Vision 2020 moderated the session.
In the second session which was moderated by state DGP Y Joykumar, women journalists Anjulika Samom and Ratika Yumnam and women police officer Laishram Sarda talked on crime against women.
The third session discussed on the topic police-media relationship.
Talkers of the third session were Salam Bharat Bhushan, founding editor of Hueiyen Lanpao, SP Th Radheshyam of Bishnupur district and assistant prof Natasha Elangbamof Mass Com Department of MU. Editor of Manipur Mail N Sanatomba was the moderator.
The menace of psychotropic substance in the state was discussed in the fourth session of the seminar cum workshop. Rinku Khumukcham, editor of Imphal Times, IGP Clay Khongsai (IPS) and Chinglen prof Meisnam of Economics Department, MU were the talkers of the fourth session. Prof. L. Lokendra Registrar, MU attended as the moderator.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/seminar-on-police-and-press-held/

Manipur rice can be exported

IMPHAL, July 27NNN : Different varieties of flavoursome rice items produced in Manipur can be sold to other big states of the country through System of Rice Intensification (SRI) after proper development of irrigation and drainage canals and paddy bun (dike).
“Surplus rice production through double cropping under India’s historic Green Revolution has so far been successful, but vast areas in North Eastern states including Manipur have remained unsuccessful in taking it up till now,” social worker and Irabot Foundation Manipur president Th Iboyaima told newspersons at the foundation office, Singajamei here on Saturday.
He said different varieties of flavoursome rice items produced in Manipur can be sold to other big states of India through System of Rice Intensification after proper development of irrigation and drainage canals and paddy bun in the state.
Irabot Foundation under its campaign for greening Manipur started since 2007 has been working jointly with farmers in the state for double cropping by cultivating vegetable crops in the fields which are left unused after seasonal rice cropping.
He said the annual total rice production of Manipur is 4, 10, 100 metric tonne but its actual requirement is 6, 37, 666 metric tonne per year—660 gm per head for daily for the total 26, 45, 911 population of the state.
Lack of proper dikes has destroyed 83, 850 pari (hectre) of paddy fields by Loktak Project, Tipaimukh Dam Project has ruined 25, 822 hectre of paddy fields and another 523 hectre has been submerged and destroyed by the Singda Dam Project in the state, he said.
Besides, another 700 sangam of paddy fields has been destroyed due to development of the International Airport after forced land acquisition in the area by the state Government, Iboyaima added.
A large number of oil pumps, private schools, brick fields, Government office buildings and private building have also been put up in a vast cultivated land areas in the state, he said.
The social activist also announced that a public discussion on the continuing emaciation of arable land in Manipur will be held on August 1 at MDU hall, Imphal during which different resolutions will be taken to stop this practice in the state.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/manipur-rice-can-be-exported/

Discussion on Meitei status

IMPHAL, July 27: NNN : A panel discussion of tribal intellectuals has termed the move of Scheduled Tribe Demand Committee of Manipur Valley (STDCMV) as ‘backward process’.
The STDCMV has been demanding for converting the Meitei community who belong to the general category, to a Scheduled Tribe under the Constitution of India.Organised by All Tribal Students Union, Manipur (ATSUM) at Tribal Research Institute (TRI), Imphal, the programme after a prologed panel discussion on the theme ‘Constitution perspective of Scheduled Tribe vis a vis the communities of Manipur’ the tribal leaders present in the meeting adopted a unanimouse decision for the well being of the tribal people.
The meeting vehemently opposed the move of the STDCM as it is a backward process.
The meeting resolved that a ‘core committee’ inclusive of the members from various disciplines under the aegis of All Tribal Students Union, Manipur (ATSUM) be formed at the earliest.
It was also resolved that anything related to the administration of the hills should be referred to the Hill Area Committee (HAC) under Article 371(C) to secure effective governance of the hills.
Nehkholal Haokip who is the assembly affairs of ATSUM gave a welcome address while ATSUM president Muan Tombing delivered the key-note address.
Dr. Gaikhamsim, Dr. Khashim Ruivah, Daniel Ramson, Dr Benjamin Gangmei and Advocate Khupchinpau Guite participated in the panel discussion.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/discussion-on-meitei-status/

Make Meghalaya 100% organic farming state: Centre tells State

SHILLONG, July 27 NNN: Meghalaya is rooted in a rich organic farming tradition and the central Government wants this tradition to be nurtured further so that Meghalaya can be branded as a “100 percent organic farming State.”
Under Secretary, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, JS Deepak, said there is immense trade potential for farm products cultivated organically. “Make Meghalaya into a State producing 100 percent organic farm product,” Deepak added.
He said there is a growing demand for organically produced goods in Europe and America and these markets have turned its eye towards India which is now focusing on organically produce farm items.
“In the past 10 years India has become as destination of organic farm produces for foreign markets in Europe and America and this market is growing 30 percent at annual compound rate. The export market is booming,” he informed a gathering of entrepreneurs here in Shillong.
The Under Secretary said that the Ministry of trade and commerce would also look into issues that come into the way in realizing States taking to organic farming.
He informed that there are 24 certificate centres in India authenticating organic farm produces, but none in the Northeast. Deepak said the Ministry would soon try set up a certificate centre in the region so that farmers have access to it. Citing the case of Lakadong turmeric and also other organic produces from Meghalaya, Deepak said, unless these products are certified by a certification agency about their organic origin they would not get the desired price at the all India level and also markets abroad.
Deepak said once the framers applies for the certificate there is a window period of three years after which the certificate is issued based on adherence of the criteria laid for issue of such certificates.
“Farmers must be encouraged to take up organic farming as there is a ready market and the Ministry would not only encourage but help such endeavors,” Deepak promised.

Decision on Tipaimukh dam welcomed

Mail News Service
Imphal, July 27 : The Citizens Concern for Dams and Development and the Committee on the Protection of Natural Resources in Manipur welcomed the “Forest Clearance” rejection for the proposed I500 MW proposed Tipaimukh Multipurpose Hydroelectric Project by the Forest Advisory meeting on 11 -12m July 2012. The rejection of forest clearance by FAC has proven that the Govt of Manipur and dam building companies pursued destructive forms of development in Manipur with no Clearance” for Tipaimukh dam on 24 October 2008 was accorded based on wrong information.
The reasons of objections outlined by the FAC of MoEF that the project Tipaimukh Dam project would cause widespread devastation of the flora, fauna; ecology in Barak Riverine Ecosystem and socio economic conditions for affected communities has long been highlighted by affected communities and proposed Tipaimukh Dam is simply more than one hundred (100) times the average rate of forest submergence by any other hydel projects in India is just an absurd reality. Further, the requirement of Sixteen (16) hectares of forest land for every Mega Wan of power to be generated is estra-ordinarily Sq. Km) will be one of the highest land requirement by any single project all over the world. The process for granting ‘Environment Clearance” and “Forest Clearance” has been carried out without any research.
The Citizens Concern for Dams and Development and the Committee on the Protection of Natural Resources in Manipur would like to urge the Miniscry of Environment and Forest and tha Govtof India to respect the recommendations of the Forest Advisory Committee on Tipaimukh Dam not to also high time that the Govtof Manipur revoke the MoU signed with National Hydroelectric Power Corporation and the Salluj Jal Vidyut Nigam Limited in 2010 given the confirmed multifaceted impacts. The Govtshould now embark on an alternative model of power generation Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, 2007 should be respected while pursuing mega dams.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/decision-on-tipaimukh-dam-welcomed/

Long talks with NSCN (IM) disturbing Manipur : UCM

IMPHAL, July 27 MNS/NNN : The president of UCM, Y. Nabachandra said the cease fire, peace talk between India govt. and NSCN(I/M) is challenging our integrity frequently. The India govt. is playing a double standard stand. They did not say the exact decision being taken up to the Manipur.
He was speaking at the integrity protection day organized by ACOAM Lup at Lamyanba Shanglen today.
In the name of peace talk they had demanded South Nagaland, greater Nagaland, Supra state body besides alternative arrangement. It is not known whether the demand was made to G.O.I or Manipuries, he also said.
Ibotombi Khuman, advisor IPSA said, as the lup observed integrity protection day, every community should know the importance of integrity and oneness.
N. Chaoba, president, All Manipur guardians assn, said we are brothers and sisters as we see it in the history. The folktales of the past should be published in the book so that the students can teach it in schools.
It may be mentioned here that the G.O.I had lifted three words without territorial limits on July 27, 2001 as it was written in Bangkok declaration.
NSCN-IM has demanded South Nagaland, Greater Nagaland and with the latest being the ‘Supra State Body’ model and the ‘alternative arrangement’ for the Nagas since the Naga rebel group entered into a ceasefire agreement with the Centre and began peace talks between the two sides, UCM president Y Nabachandra said Nabachandra charged the Government of India for being double standard while dealing with the NSCN-IM to bring a political solution to the vexed Naga issue.
He alleged that during the protracted political dialogue with the insurgent group, the Centre always tells something to the NSCN-IM while other thing to the people.
Nabachandra said such attitude of the Centre coupled with the ceasefire agreement between the Government of India and NSCN-IM and their peace parleys have constantly threatened the territorial integrity of Manipur, he accused.
He also called upon the people of the state to re-affirm the stand on the protection of the state’s territorial integrity.
Acoam Lup observes Integrity Protection Day on July 27. On this day, July 27, 2001, the Government of India deleted the ‘without territorial limits’ from the Bankok ceasefire pact signed between the Government of India and NSCN-IM on June 14, 2001 restricting the truce in Nagaland only.
Akom Lup president Ksh Somarendra, the social body’s advisor H Kulla, ex-project director, Manipur Aids Control Society (MACS) Dr Khomdon Lisham, Editor Forum president I Ibochouba among others also attended the function.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/long-talks-with-nscn-im-disturbing-manipur-ucm/

WIFS Programme Making Young Strong

Sarita Brara
India is one among the countries with very high prevalence of anaemia. Fifty six per cent adolescent girls and 30 adolescent boys in India in the age group 10-19 years are anaemic according to the third National Family Health Survey.
In our country almost 50 per cent of nutritional deficency related anaemia is iron deficiency anaemia. It is mainly the result of under nutrition and poor dietary intake of iron, not just among pregnant women, infants and young children but also adolescents. It is estimated that five crore adolescents in the age group of 15to 19 are anaemic.
Iron deficiency anaemia during adolescence can impair physical growth, cognitive development, reduce physical fitness and energy levels and can affect concentration and work performance. Iron deficiency in girls has more serious health consequences. It can have impact on their entire life cycle. Anaemic girls have lower pre pregnancy stores of iron. Anaemic adolescent girls have a higher risk of preterm delivery and having babies with low weight. Anaemia in adolescent girls also increases the risk of maternal death. One third of all the material deaths take place in young women in the age group of 15 to 24 years.
Therefore regular consumption of iron folic acid supplements along with diet rich in micronutrients is essential for prevention of iron deficiency anaemia in adolescent girls and boys.
It is in this context that a nation-wide Weekly Iron and Folic Acid Supplementation (WIFS) programme was launched in January this year to address this critical health issue.
The Weekly Iron and Folic Acid Supplementation (WIFS) programme is currently reaching out to 13 crore school-going girls and boys (class VI – XII) and out-of-school adolescent girls in government/ aided and municipal schools and Anganwadi Centres across all states in India.
There have been a few reports of minor side affects like nausea and vomiting in the recent past although guidelines have been issued on the consumption of these iron folic acid tablets to prevent side affect like nausea.
At a recent press conference Public health experts from Public Health and Nutrition Centre, AIIMS and UNICEF while sharing shared insights on the IFA tablets and WIFS programme threw light the side effects.
“When iron tablet is taken for the first time, the body may find it little difficult to digest and symptoms such as stomachache and nausea may occur. However, if taken after food, the absorption will be little low but stomach ache and nausea will not occur. These side effects will eventually disappear once the tablet is regularly taken for a few weeks as the body adjusts to the iron tablets. Hard stools after consuming iron-folic acid tablet are harmless. The body takes the iron it needs and the extra iron is removed through faeces. To reduce side affects IFA tablets should be taken on full stomach. Taking any vitamin or nutrient is never restricted during an illness. In fact, it helps speedy recovery from illness by improving immunity of the body. Iron folic acid tablet can be taken during illness and even during menstruation.”
Under WIFS programme functionaries across the states have been provided training as well as resource material to help build up skills so that this very important health programme is effectively implemented and monitored. The resources material talks about why it is important to prevent iron deficiency and anaemia, building skills for screening of moderate to severe, supply of logistic management four Iron Folic Acid (IFA) tablets. The states have also been advised to set up external quality monitoring cell for period inspection and also to ensure standards prescribed for quality are maintained for WIFS programme. Also in addition, there is a provision under the scheme for random batches of IFAs to be taken from the supplies of the state for periodic testing on quarterly or six monthly basis by the Minister of Health and Family Welfare in identified labs for monitoring the quality.
There are instruction at the schools and anganwadi levels also for monthly reporting and monitoring of the distribution of IFA and its proper storage as well as ensuring biannual de-worming of target groups.
Guildelines have also been issued on the intake of IFAs
These include:
Iron-folic acid tablets should be consumed after the main meal of the day to prevent side effects such as nausea.
Adolescent boys and girls who complain of side effects should be advised to take the IFA supplements after dinner and before retiring to sleep.
Increased intake of foods rich in Vitamin C such as lemon, amla etc can help absorb iron from the vegetarian Indian diet.
Use of iron vessels for cooking should be encouraged.
Drinking tea or coffee within an hour of consuming main meals should be discouraged.
Adolescent boys and girls should be motivated to follow correct hygiene practices and the habit of using footwear to prevent worm infestation.
Although guidelines have been issued, there a need to address to program implementation issues including training of teachers and functionaries involved in this critical health mission. There is a need for renewed emphasis on training with special reference to supervised ingestion which ensures correct method of IFA tablet intake. There is also a need for better monitoring of the programme.
The Current data shows that slow release ferrous sulphate preparations remain the established and standard treatment of iron deficiency. Weekly supplementation with iron and folic acid in menstruating women has been successfully implemented using different mechanisms in several countries (including Cambodia, Egypt, Laos, Philippines and Vietnam).
As rightly pointed out by Additional Secretary and Mission Director, NRHM, Mrs. Anuradha Gupta, the weekly Iron Folic Acid Supplementation (WIFS) is an evidence based programme for addressing Iron Deficiency Anaemia which is both safe and effective. She said that miniscule number of cases where some adolescents have had some minor side-effects should not act as a deterrent to this very important public health initiative.

There is however a need to spread awareness and not misinformation about WIFS by ensuring effective implementation and proper monitoring of this ambitious programme critical for the health growth and development of adolescent boys and girls.PIB Features

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/wifs-programme-making-young-strong/

It is que time again in Manipur. People lining up to get oil near an oil depot

Vijay day observed

Imphal Jul 26 MNS : The 14th anniversary of Kargil Diwas was observed in Manipur too like in other parts of the country.
The state level function was held at the conference hall of the south block of the Manipur secretariat with chief minister Okram Ibobi Singh as chief guest. The Manipur unit of the BJP too observed the day with a simple function in its office at Imphal
State PHED minister I Hemochandra, chief secretary DS Poonia and officials from civil and police department attended the function.
The Kargil war, which began in May 1999, lasted more than two months before Pakistan soldiers withdrew from the mountain tops they had occupied overlooking the Srinagar-Leh highway in Operation Vijay. The day is being observed every year on this day to commemorate the heroism displayed by the soldiers who laid down their lives during the Indo-Pak war in Kargil.
Addressing the function chief minister O Ibobi Singh said that the day is being observed to salute the martyrs of operation Vijay and the heroic soldiers of the Kargil war.
He reminded brave soldiers from Manipur who had sacrificed their lives to defend the country in the war and said that heroic those Manipuri soldiers who had died defending the territorial integrity of India and their sacrifice would remain forever in the mind of the people of the state.
Manipuris were proud of their sacrifices, he said urging the people of the state to remember the sacrifice made by the brave soldiers.
The chief minister said “We all are citizen of India and that we as an Indian Citizen must safeguard the unity and integrity of the country at all times.”
He further recalled the freedom that India got from the British after a long struggle and said the sacrifices made by the heroic soldiers must not go in vain. “We all must unite together and defend our country,” he called for.
(BJP), Manipur Pradesh observed the day at it’s office with its president Th Chaoba in the chair.
Floral tributes were given to the martyrs with speeches extolling their sacrifices and bravery being made by the dignitaries.
Seven jawans from Manipur was martyred in the war and the BJP made special tribute paid to them.
The party also issued an open letter addressed to the President of India on the Food Security Ordinance, terming the move by the centre to implement it only in Congress ruled states as a gross violation of the constitutional principle and raising the question as to why the same should not be implemented in all the states. The seven martyrs from Manipur as followed Ch. Nicholash, Ng. Bening Moyon, S. Genneithang, S. Daikho, Jamkholet Vaiphei, Kaleshwor Kom and K. Asholi Mao.

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

ATSUM joins chorus objecting ST status to Meiteis

Imphal Jul 26 UNA : The so called “Interim Body” All Tribal Student’s Union Manipur (ATSUM) joined the chorus objecting the demand for scheduled tribe status which was recently raised by Scheduled Tribe Demand Committee of Manipur Valley (STDCMV) on Friday.
The Scheduled Tribe Demand Committee of Manipur Valley (STDCMV) has been demanding inclusion of Meiteis in the ST (Scheduled Tribe) list of the Indian Constitution considering the topography of the region which the community is settling.
The demand has received strong criticism and opposition from various tribal bodies like Naga’s apex body, the United Naga Council (UNC) and All India Tribal Students’ Association (AITSA), Manipur. The Kuki Students’ Organisation (KSO) also recently registered their objection to the demand.
Joining the chorus objecting the demand, All Tribal Student’s Union Manipur (ATSUM) today submitted a memorandum to the Prime Minister of India drawing his attention towards few relevant issues before “the demand is even being considered either in the state or central government level.”
In the memorandum ATSUM said “we are bound to ask ourselves if our Meitei brothers are really trying to assert their true identity by demanding ST status.”
If so, why should not be inclusive of all the Meiteis of not just Manipur valley but also those of Assam, Tripura and elsewhere without being grouped into general, OBC, SC or ST,” the ATSUM questioned.
Tribals of Manipur have always aired their displeasure over the government of Manipur for being “valley centric”. The hills have been neglected for the past more than 60 years and the piecemeal development undertaken in the hills were just eyewash and excuses.
The reservation policy followed by the state is also not in sync with the tribal population of the state, the ATSUM alleged in the memorandum, asserting that the population of the tribals of the state has crossed 37% of the total population of the state but the percentage of tribal employees of the state government is not even 21%.
The tribals have been demanding greater autonomy of the existing Autonomous District Councils by extending the sixth scheduled provision of the Constitution to them. This rightful demand is, however, being put in cold storage for years.
The excuse being the extension of the said provision would lead to more demands and finally a full fledged state by the tribals of the state, the ASTUM lamented.
Besides, Manipuri, the official language of Manipur has already being listed in the 8th Scheduled of the Indian Constitution way back in the early 1990s due to immense pressure given by the people of the state.
The Meiteis who used this language as their mother tongue from time immemorial and who were included in the general category were given the opportunity of writing exam conducted by the UPSC in their own language after the recognition of their language.
Not satisfied with their performance in such all India level exams and with greed running over community pride and ego, they again successfully demand the inclusion of the community to Other Backward Classes (OBC) some year back.
“We now suspects that the prime motive for demanding ST status for the Meitei of Manipur valley is to do more with political opportunities than socio-economic and educational benefits for their people and communities,” ATSUM stated in the memorandum.
Before initiating any positive steps on the demand raised by the STDCMV, the views and opinions of all stakeholders need to be sought and studied extensively, the tribal based student body suggested.
The tribals who were feeling insecure and neglected for decades by the majority community of Manipur would be compelled to take extreme steps if their interest and rights are being overtaken by the authority concern, the memorandum jointly signed by its ATSUM president Emboi Serto, general secretary Marahang Ngimai and speaker Adani David Mao warned.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/atsum-joins-chorus-objecting-st-status-to-meiteis/

BJP on food security

MNS: BJP, Manipur has written an open letter to the President regarding Food Security Ordinance. M Asnikumar of BJP said in the open letter that as per Food Security Ordinance, the Union Cabinet decided to implement the same in all the Congress ruled States from August 20,2013.
For bettering the relations between the Centre and States, Article 246 of the (7th Schedule) Constitution divides the subjects into Union List (99 subjects), State List (66 subjects) and Concurrent List (47 subjects) and Residual Powers (i.e. Subjects not included in any of the Lists which rest with the Union Government).
The Ordinance as a “Central Subject” was promulgated by the President of India on the advice of the Union Cabinet to implement it all over India.But, the Union Government announced to implement the ordinance only in the Congress Ruled States in violation of the Constitution .A question arises as to why the same ordinance should not be implemented in all the States. The present exercise mean that India is only for Congress ruled states. This ultimately will violate the federal principle of the constitution of this Country.
Clarification by the Cabinet through the President is anticipated.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/bjp-on-food-security/

Mapithel dam affected people organises campaign

UKHRUL, July 26 : Participants from the Mapithel Dam affected villages during an environment awareness campaign on Mapithel valley today called for the need of forest and environment protection in the area saying the undergoing Mapithel Dam construction has no environment and forest clearance.
A one-day awareness campaign on Mapitheel valley was held at Thoyee village, Ukhrul district. It was jointly organised by Mapithel Dam Affected Villages Organisation (MDAVO), Committee on Protection of Natural Resources, Manipur (CPNaRM) and Centre for Research and Advocacy (CRA). The programme was held under the theme “Save our Agriculture Land, Protect our Forest and Environment and Let Yangwui Kong (Thoubal River) Flow Free.”
Representatives from Mapithel Dam affected villages like Chadong, Ramrei, Riha and Thoyee took part in the campaign.
All the speakers during the programme emphasized on the need for forest and environment protection, saying there is no environment and forest clearance on Mapithel Dam which is going to give adverse impact on the villagers.
They said 595 ha of forest land area is to be reserved for the project for which the land owners have no any knowledge and at the same time, the catchment area treatment plant has not been revised for which directive was served by the Central Government to Manipur Government.
The Environment Impact Assessment report submitted by Manipur Government to the Central Government in 2007 was closed by the latter for want of detailed information on the environment aspect and environmental action plan, the speakers added.
They said, on the other hand, the state Government has persistently put pressure towards completion of the project that is target to commission in March 2015.
Mapithel Dam affected villages have been demanding for initial forest clearance as well as their proper rehabilitation and resettlement programme.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/mapithel-dam-affected-people-organises-campaign/

Nine Industrial estates to be established in : Muniyappa

Manipur Information Centre
NEW DELHI, July 26: Manipur Commerce and Industries Minister Govindas Konthoujam on Thursday met the Union Minister of State for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) K.H. Muniyappa in his office chamber at Nirmal Bhavan here to discuss about the establishment of Industrial Estates in every district of Manipur.
During the meeting, Union Minister assured the Manipur Minister for sanction of the establishment of Industrial Estates in six districts namely Imphal West, Bishnupur, Thoubal, Chandel , Ukhrul and Churachandpur soon and the sanction for the remaining three districts namely, Imphal East, Senapati and Tamenglong during the latter part of the current year 2013-14, says Minister of Commerce and Industries Govindas Konthoujam here today.
He stated that the cost of the infrastructure development of each Industrial Estate would be Rs 10 crore. The Centre would sanction 80 pc of the cost for each Estate and the remaining 20 pc of the cost would be borne by the State. For construction of the work sheds in the Estate, the state Government had already approached to the North East Council.
The Union Minister also agreed in principle for establishment of a Fragrance and Flavor Development Centre in Manipur, after the Minister of Commerce and Industries had informed the Union Minister that there were many varities of aromatic plants as well as medicinal plants grown abundantly in Manipur, he added. The meeting was attended by
Additional Secretary and Development Commissioner (MSME) Amarendra Sinha of the Union Ministry, and Manipur Director of Industries B. John Tlangtinkhuma and OSD/MSME of Industries Department, Manipur Th. Saratkumar Singh accompanied the Manipur Minister.
Govindas inspected the renovation works of Manipur Panthoibi Emporium at Baba Kharak Singh Marg here. He asked the contractor to complete all renovation works by the end of August this year. He emphasized the need for renovate the Emporium with good quality materials and it should be a good look as it mirrored the State of Manipur in the national capital.
He instructed the contractor to modify the third floor of the emporium for accommodation of present set-up of the Manipur Information Centre, Delhi and to complete the work by 31st of August. He said that the first and second floors of the Emporium would be rented to Consortium of 22 Manipuri entrepreneurs for showcasing the high quality Manipuri handloom export items, under the guidance of Manipur Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh on Export Promotion Approach of the Government of Manipur.
Govindas Konthoujam also met the Director General of Foreign Trade Dr Anup K. Pujari IAS here today and reminded him for inclusion of teak timber in the import list of the Indo-Myanmar Border Trade. He informed him that the State Government of Manipur was setting up a Timber Park to convert timbers into furniture to meet the demand of domestic and international markets.
The Director General of Foreign Trade asked his subordinates to issue the relevant order soon, said the Manipur Minister of Commerce and Industries. He also requested the Director General of Foreign Trade for inclusion of Nunga fish in the import list of the Border Trade.
For promotion of small and medium industries especially handloom sector in Manipur, Manipur Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh , in his letter dated July 18, 2013, requested the Union Minister for Textiles Kavuru Samba Siva Rao for his personal intervention in sanctioning the project proposal amounting to Rs 6578.66 lakhs for implementation of 170 Minimum Economic Size Commercial Units in all nine districts of Manipur in order to provide employment as well as to increase the standard of living of the weavers. The project proposal already submitted to the Ministry of Textiles was prepared by the NEITCO, Guwahati with the guidance of the Ministry of DoNER and Textiles. The project aimed at the conversion of domestic handloom industry into a commercial handloom industry.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/nine-industrial-estates-to-be-established-in-muniyappa/

Manipur bids farewell to Brojeshori

Imphal Jul 24 UNA: The Imphal airport was crowded as hundreds of fans stormed there to pay last tributes to the Indian Olympian from Manipur Lourembam Brojeshori Devi who died at a hospital in Tamil Nadu on Monday night.
The 32 years old first Olympian Judoka of the country passed away on Monday night after ailing from a disease at a Combator Hospital. She was in Tamil Nadu to join at her new posting place as an assistant commandant of the CRPF.
The lifeless body of the Olympian arrived at Imphal airport today forenoon where hundreds of people stormed to receive the soulless body. Among them was the five-time world woman champion Mary Kom, top officers of the CRPF and many other noted sports personalities of the state.
At the Imphal airport, fitting tribute was paid to the mortal remains of the sportswoman of the country.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/manipur-bids-farewell-to-brojeshori/

Indo-Myanmar rbc held

Mail News Service
Imphal, July 24 : The third Indo-Myanmar Regional Border Committee Meet between India and Myanmar was organized from 23-25 Jul 13 by Red Shield Division at Leimakhong under the aegis of Spears Corps of Indian Army. Several high ranking officials of the Myanmar delegation led by Commander of North West Command with top ranking representatives from Myanmar Army and various departments of the Government attended the meet.
The Indo-Myanmar Regional Border Committee Meet is a landmark event which provides an opportunity for representatives of Security Forces and government officials of both nations to discuss and resolve crucial issues relating to border management, bi-lateral cooperation and counter terrorism strategy. This forum also offers an opportunity to the delegates to exchange views which assist in further strengthening the bonds of co-operation and friendship among both the countries.
On 24 July, Lt Gen AK Sahni, General Officer Commanding, Spears Corps also handed over Seven Bailey Bridges to Myanmar Army at Leimakhong to the Myanmar Army.
The Myanmar delegation was represented by Maj Gen Soe Lwin, Commander, North West Command who accepted the Bailey Bridges. This crucial meeting was attended by high ranking officials from both the countries. This gesture by India will go a long way in providing a vital fillip to the relationship between the two historic neighbours.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/indo-myanmar-rbc-held/