Killing In The Name Of The Indian Nation

What happens to democracy when an army is at war in peacetime? On 3 December, Attorney General of India Mukul Rohatgi told the Supreme Court, “The army is only discharging

What happens to democracy when an army is at war in peacetime? On 3 December, Attorney General of India Mukul Rohatgi told the Supreme Court, “The army is only discharging

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/12/killing-in-the-name-of-the-indian-nation/

Myanmar Meitei diaspora yearning for Manipuri cultural revival in adopted country

IMPHAL, December 4: Lack of proper facilities to learn the Manipuri language and Manipuri art forms are the most challenging factors of the Meiteis residing in Myanmar in their effort

A Meitei girl from Myanmar recieving a gift during the reception programme. IFP Photo.

A Meitei girl from Myanmar recieving a gift during the reception programme. IFP Photo.

IMPHAL, December 4: Lack of proper facilities to learn the Manipuri language and Manipuri art forms are the most challenging factors of the Meiteis residing in Myanmar in their effort to promote and preserve their own culture in their adopted country, lamented the Myanmar Meitei Diaspora group.

The group shared this during an interaction with media persons at a reception ceremony held today for the Myanmar Meitei delegates of the recently concluded Manipur Sangai Festival 2015 at the Youth Hostel, Khuman Lampak.

The function was organised by the All Manipur United Clubs’ Organisation.

One of the delegates, Uthui Suiye whose Manipuri name is Sundergopal said such visit to Manipur is rare for a Myanmar Meitei.

He said that it is nearly impossible for them to come and visit Manipur very often by road.

The Manipur Sangai Festival has, however, opened a window of opportunities for them to visit their native land, although the due process to get the permission for the visit even during the festival was painstaking as the Sagaing Region government doesn’t give permissions easily, he observed.

It took a long process of changing documentations between the Indian Embassy and the Myanmar government before the permission for the by-road visit to Manipur was granted, he said.

“Now the festival is the ticket for us to see Manipur. The Myanmar High Command hardly grants permission on normal days,” he observed.

Elaborating on the grievances of the Meitei population in Myanmar, he said one of the most challenging issues before them is the lack of proper facilities to learn the Manipur language and Art forms so that they could preserve the Meitei culture and language.

The military junta administration of Myanmar had several restrictions on religious and cultural activities in the past, however, with the relationship between the two countries improving in recent times it has somewhat been relaxed, he added.

The visiting delegate also recalled that on the request of the Indian Embassy there, a cultural dance teacher from Assam was brought to Myanmar and assigned to teach Manipuri Cultural dance forms including Ras Lila for six months.

He observed that Manipuri dances are gaining popularity in Myanmar while calculating the potential to grow further more.

Lauding the lady dancer, he said she danced excellently as she had learnt the dance forms from a dance academy in Manipur in 2008.

Seeking help from the State government and all concerned, he drew the attention of the authorities concerned to make arrangement to provide with a Meitei cultural dance and language teacher to ensure that the Myanmar Meitei can preserve the Manipuri heritage in Myanmar.

During the reception ceremony representative of AMUCO also presented the delegates with Meitei traditional attires.

Dr Y Mani Khuman AMUCO’s president said that such event would mark the beginning of a process to bring closure the diaspora groups with the people here in Manipur.

The revelation of grievances being faced by the Myanmar Meitei is an eye opener that similar and frequent interaction in the future could help the people yield the solutions to their problem, he continued.

A reception ceremony for the Meitei Myanmar delegates was also conducted today at Panthou Esaikon, Wangkhei Hijam Leirak.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/12/myanmar-meitei-diaspora-yearning-for-manipuri-cultural-revival-in-adopted-country/

How Smart Will Imphal Smart City Be?

How Smart Will Imphal Smart City Be? By Khwairakpam Gajananda   In this era of science and technology, we have reached the moon, we are planning to live on the Mars

View of Imphal City. Photo by: Deepak shijagurumayum

View of Imphal City. Photo by: Deepak shijagurumayum

How Smart Will Imphal Smart City Be?

By Khwairakpam Gajananda

 

In this era of science and technology, we have reached the moon, we are planning to live on the Mars and everyone has a desire to develop. Then the big question is, “how can we make it possible”? We need a vision, which must identify the potential risks and bottlenecks and their possible solutions in order to mobilize efforts in a focused manner. It is neither a prediction of what will actually occur, nor simply wish-lists of desirable but unattainable ends. It is a testimonial of what we believe is possible for Manipur to achieve, by fully mobilizing all the available resources like – human, technological and natural resources. Our effective strategies should focus on fully utilizing the man, material, technological and natural resources that we possesses—in the most rapid, efficient, organize and sustainable manner.

Every Nation or State, therefore, needs a vision, which should stir the imaginations and motivates its people to greater efforts. The denizens of Manipur should also share visions of prosperous Manipur, visions of winners, visions of leaders. Here, a vision is not just a public speech, conference proceeding, project report or a plan target—it is an articulation of the desired end results in broader terms.

Clearly, Imphal Municipal Council (IMC) has been experiencing the growth, parallel to some other cities of India. The contributions of Manipur to the World and India are already written in the golden book, because of which, today, we are known to many as, “Power House of Sports”, “Land of Polo”, “Land of Dancing Deer”, “Land of Siroi Lily”, “Land of Juko Lily”, “Land of Loktak Lake”, “Land of Women Markets” etc. These will clearly provoke our thoughts that, “How smart will Imphal Smart City (ISC) be?”

To answer the above question, we need to have focused objectives, such as: To identifies and apply appropriate technological advancement and conservation principles for the betterment of the ISC urban infrastructures and food security by protecting the natural environment. To pioneer in developing a new ISC, rather than to copy or follow others. To commit in disseminating indigenous knowledge and cultures at local, national and international levels. To show-case our indigenous products all over the world through entrepreneurships. To target better economic performances of the ISC. The ISC should also have the goals for food security, sustainable livelihoods, poverty alleviation, quality educations and jobs creations by mitigating the negative impacts on various factors and by sustainably utilizing the available resources.

Nonetheless, ISC will have many challenges to meet. Some of them are: Competition—no doubt Imphal City is supplemented by picturesque surroundings, still it has many growing challenges from various factors such as inter cities competitions, migrations and immigrations, environmental degradations, wastes problems, lack of proper infrastructures, pollutions, energy inefficiency etc. Health—lack of preventive, curative or palliative pharmaceutical or medical facilities to treat pandemic diseases. Urban Economy—lack of participation in building a strong financial capital of the State. Urban Safety— no Zero Accident City. Food Security—no proper facilities for processing and preservation of food grains, vegetables and fruits. Environment—no proper sustainable environmental conservations and tackling the major issues in a holistic approach. To meet the above challenges, ISC needs to plan itself. The plans should be systematically identified and evaluated by competent authorities of IMC, so that it can be implemented by giving utmost importance.

All over the world, urban and peri-urban agriculture is contributing to employment opportunities and income generations of households, operating as individuals and organized as micro and small enterprise operators, cooperatives and investors. It has also become an area of investment opportunity. Producers are able to satisfy their food need and supply the market with agricultural products mainly grains, crops, vegetables, poultry, milk, livestock, fruits, honey, tree crops etc.

In this scenario, the utilizations of wastewater and biodegradable solid wastes have high potential for reuse in agriculture; an opportunity for increasing food and environmental security, avoiding direct pollution of rivers, canals and surface water, conserving water and nutrients, conserving lands and landscapes. Thereby, reducing the need for chemical fertilizer and disposing of municipal solid wastes and wastewater in a low-cost sanitary way. The WHO’s international guidelines on wastewater reuse in agriculture and aqua-culture and recommendations of wastewater treatments are considered by many governments as the legal framework. Roughly, 10% of the world’s urban wastewater is currently being used for irrigation. However, industrial wastes, such as heavy metals, acids and derivatives of plastics, and organic and inorganic components of human wastes—pose serious health and environmental threats. Prolong contacts of solid wastes and wastewater poses numbers of health and environmental risks for users and communities.

Therefore, the preparations for growth and growth plan for ISC should be, to develop capabilities to meet the challenging demand for urban populations, industries and environment. Diversification of ISC into the emerging areas, in line with the changing trends of the World and the advancement of the infrastructures and technologies is required. There should be focus on the expansion of ISC activities with increase in workforces and infrastructures. IMC should also tap the potential Human Resources. Incorporate the improvements of the human life styles, health, environment, and mitigation of the urban poor. All these can be achieved through; improvement of work cultures, infrastructures, technologies, quality educations and health facilities.

Finally, realizing the ISC goals should not be an end in itself, but rather an essential condition for allowing the spirit of Manipur to emerge and flourish. The fresh minds and young Manipuri’s have immense potentials and ideas within them—that we just need a push. It is a joint responsibility of all of us present today in Manipur, and also for the future generations who will lead tomorrow, to continue the pace of developments by leaps and bounds to fulfill the visions of our Imphal Smart City.

 

The writer is an Associate Professor at Center for Environmental Sciences, CNS, Addis Ababa University, Ethiopia. He can be reached at gajkh@yahoo.com

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/12/how-smart-will-imphal-smart-city-be/

Binita Chhetry wins Pond’s Eclectic Model Hunt 2015

GUWAHATI, November 30: In front of a packed crowd at ITA Machkhowa auditorium, Binita Chhetry from Guwahati was crowned as the winner of Pond’s Eclectic Model Hunt 2015 by Emika

GUWAHATI, November 30: In front of a packed crowd at ITA Machkhowa auditorium, Binita Chhetry from Guwahati was crowned as the winner of Pond’s Eclectic Model Hunt 2015 by Emika Pakyntein, Pond’s Eclectic Model Hunt 2014 Winner, Tanushree Hazarika, Managing Director of Eclectic Publications and fashion designer Joy Mitra, said a press release.

It said, the 1st Runner-up was awarded to Kaheli Chophy from Dimapur and the 2nd Runner-up to Nandita Saikia from Guwahati, and the prestigious panel of judges of the event were fashion designer Joy Mitra, Shikhar Sidharth, Managing Director of Vogati Talents, Assamese actor Vaishalee Saikia, former model and pastry chef Mandakini Dass and social worker Miani D Shira from Shillong.

(Left - Right) Kaheli Chophy, Binita Chhetry and Nandita Saikia

(Left – Right) Kaheli Chophy, Binita Chhetry and Nandita Saikia

The contest was enlivened by an impressive and diverse line-up of talents from across the region. A thousand-plus crowd cheered as Priyam Baruah and her team performed a kathak and Bollywood fusion dance. Sangeet Natak Academy award winner Moinul Haque’s mime act kept the audience enthralled, and the final performance was by Guwahati based band Swadhyay who had the crowd grooving to their peppy beats, said the press release.

It said, the event is managed by Tattva Creations Pvt Ltd and the main idea behind Pond’s Eclectic Model Hunt is to groom talented young women from across the Northeast and encourage them to become empowering role models of beauty, health and leadership.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/11/binita-chhetry-wins-ponds-eclectic-model-hunt-2015/

Early closure of ticket counters leads to pandemonium at Sangai Festival entrance

IMPHAL, November 28: Complete mayhem broke out at the entrance of the Sangai Festival at Palace Compound Pureiromba area this afternoon. Visitors mainly women and children jam-packed the entrance as

Sangai visitors especially womenfolk and children jostling with security personnel at the entrance of the Sangai Festival main venue

Sangai visitors especially womenfolk and children jostling with security personnel at the entrance of the Sangai Festival main venue. Photo by: Deepak Shijagurumayum

IMPHAL, November 28: Complete mayhem broke out at the entrance of the Sangai Festival at Palace Compound Pureiromba area this afternoon.

Visitors mainly women and children jam-packed the entrance as there was complete disorder as tickets had already ran out by 2:30 pm. However, the VIPs had no problem as they drove in amongst the crowd with complete ease and it was only the public which was left to fend for themselves to gain entry.

Unlike other days, thousands were seen lined up for tickets at the Pureiromba Khongnang area as the ticket counters had closed down by 2:30 pm approximately. The visitors had stood in queues for more than an hour when it was ultimately announced that the tickets had sold out.

The irate crowd tore down the banner of the Globiz ticketing agency and mobbed the entrance of the Sangai festival.

As a result, the queue broke and the police had to let in the visitors without tickets. There was no proper checking done, resulting to a complete breakdown of security measures.

A Globiz ticket usher told this reporter that they were ordered by a DIG of the Police department to close down the sales when the tickets sale reaches 30,000.

It may be mentioned that the ticket counter closed down by 2.30 pm and one has to assume that the said capacity was reached by the time.

However, there was no dearth of tickets at the peripheral areas, as black marketers sold tickets worth Rs 20 at a rate of Rs 100 and going upto Rs 250.

The tickets which were sold in black were the genuine bar coded ones. Police had even nabbed a person selling tickets and express suspicion that the source may be from the Globiz ticketing agency itself.

The Globiz agency shares the revenue of the ticket sale with the State government: Globiz takes 60 percent and the remaining goes to the government, according to an official of the agency.

It is also learnt that only 10 tickets were sold online today.

This is a clear example that the major chunk of revenue generated from the public goes to a private firm and the State government cannot even handle the task of selling festival tickets.

From around 4 pm onwards, there were huge traffic congestions and the visitors kept piling up on both the Southern and Northern entrances to the main venue of the festival. Despite the tickets running out at around 2.30 pm, thousands came bearing tickets still. When asked where the tickets were from, many of them said that they bought it from the black marketers. As such, the swamping of visitors gave a tough time to the police and both sides faced harassment.

A senior police officer at the gate told this reporter that it is a must for the Sangai venue to be changed from next year.

It may be mentioned that the Shillong Choir also voiced similar sentiments and said that BOAT amphitheatre is too small for musical shows.

Many sections from the public also exclaimed that the venue is overcrowded and there is no feeling of comfort when one goes for a festival seeking healthy entertainment.

“We are coming from Thoubal with our families, our small children to witness the festival. The way we are being treated by the security, and risking life and limb to gain entrance to the Sangai festival is a big insult to the public. It is a simple harassment and incompetency of the State administration” said, Sunita, a visitor.

It was witnessed that many vehicles including commercial vehicles inclusive of diesel autos were found flaunting ‘VIP’’ passes and gaining easy access while the public had to literally risk injury to get in.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/11/early-closure-of-ticket-counters-leads-to-pandemonium-at-sangai-festival-entrance/

Delhi and Beijing co-operation not enough, must work together to promote regional co-operation: Chinese Ambassador to India

IMPHAL, November 28: Chinese Ambassador to India Le Yucheng said co-operation between New Delhi and Beijing cannot cover everything but we are working actively to promote regional co-operation. If we

Chief Minister Okram Ibobi presenting memento to the Chinese Ambassador in India Le.Yucheng at CM Office on Friday.

Chief Minister Okram Ibobi presenting memento to the Chinese Ambassador in India Le.Yucheng at CM Office on Friday.

IMPHAL, November 28: Chinese Ambassador to India Le Yucheng said co-operation between New Delhi and Beijing cannot cover everything but we are working actively to promote regional co-operation.

If we are talking of co-operation with a small country, maybe links between the two capitals would have been enough, Yucheng said, elaborating further that both India and China are large populous countries with lots of provinces and States.

When we talk of cooperation with large countries like India, State-level as well as city level co-operations are also crucial, he added.

Yucheng was addressing the local media this morning at the Classic Grande.

During Prime Minister Modi’s visit to China in May this year the two countries had established a “local leaders’ forum” which is held annually attended by leaders from both sides, he said continuing that such direct interactions and co-operations are very effective.

The provinces and States in China and India can boost a deeper mutual understanding and co-operation between the two countries, Yucheng added.

Every year there are a lot of exchanges of local leaders of the two countries, he added. This year alone more than 20 Chinese Governors and Mayors have already visited India and more than four or five from India have visited China, he said pointing out that the Chief Minister of Manipur had led a government delegation to China in 2013.

Replying to a query on apprehensions in the region regarding a major diversion of the Brahmaputra River water, which is known as the Tsangpo River in Tibet, in China, and if there is any plan of China to construct a dam on the river, he said we pay a lot of attention to ecological protection on the rivers.

Actually between India and China, we have an effective mechanism for exchange of co-operation with regards to cross-border rivers, he said.

So if there is any question about environmental protection or construction on the rivers it can be properly handled through these bilateral mechanisms for exchange of co-operation, he said evading a direct reply.

Not long ago the Vice President of China visited India. During his visit the two sides extended an agreement for China to provide India with flood seasoned hydrological data of cross-border rivers, he said.

This move of goodwill from the Chinese side can help India better make use of the river resources, he added.

Regarding a query on the issues regarding the McMahon Line and if there are any plans of China to discuss the issue and settle it, Yucheng said “The question is a sensitive and complex issue between India and China.”

In the past we came across some problems but now the leaders of both countries are very visionary, he added.

They have realized that it is important to keep in mind the overall interest of India-China relations and handle the boundary question through diplomatic channels carefully and properly, he said.

We have a number of mechanisms for discussion regarding boundary questions, he told the media adding that at the same time while we are looking for ways to resolve this boundary questions, we are working hard to maintain peace and stability in border areas.

Boundary question is different from country to country. Experiences of resolving boundary equations of other countries may not be apply to resolve the boundary equation of our two countries, he said.

“To resolve the China-India boundary question, we need to proceed from the reality of the boundary between our two countries. But I am confident that the two ancient civilizations, China and India have every wisdom and capability to find out the solution.”

Despite the differences not even a single bullet was fired at the border areas over the past several decades, he added. This shows that we have successfully and effectively manage to bring stability in the border areas, he said.

The Chinese Ambassador to India had also shared his experiences during his four-day stay in Manipur

He shared how he was impressed by the beauty of Loktak Lake, culture and traditions of various communities of the State, the polo game, the people and Manipur as a whole.

Expressing gratitude to the State Government and the Chief Minister of Manipur for inviting him to the Sangai festival, he said “As far as I know I may be the very first Chinese ambassador to India and indeed the first diplomat from the Chinese Embassy in India to ever visit Manipur.”

“Actually before we came here we were quite curious because the North East India is a place that we have never set foot on that is why I spend more time in Manipur than many other places in India.”

Yucheng further expressed his gratitude to the Manipur Labour and Employment minister I Hemochandra for showing him around the State.

He said he had met the Chief Minister yesterday and had a friendly and in-depth discussion on a lot of grounds including Manipur’s economic and social development, cultural commonalities and historical links with China, the bright prospect of our co-operation as well as PCIM economic corridor that runs through Manipur.

He said he was impressed by the folk culture and martial arts performances during the Sangai Festival.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/11/delhi-and-beijing-cooperation-not-enough-must-work-together-to-promote-regional-cooperation-chinese-ambassador-to-india/

Pond’s Eclectic Model Hunt comes back

GUWAHATI, November 27: Northeast’s biggest fashion extravaganza Pond’s Eclectic Model Hunt is back with its season eight this year, and the event is mainly focussed on providing that much needed

GUWAHATI, November 27: Northeast’s biggest fashion extravaganza Pond’s Eclectic Model Hunt is back with its season eight this year, and the event is mainly focussed on providing that much needed platform to all the young and charismatic aspiring female models from the region. The event is managed by Tattva Creations, part of Eclectic Group and one of the premier event management company based in Guwahati, said a press release.

It said, the preliminary rounds of the contest was started from October with auditions at Jorhat, Shillong, Dimapur followed by Aizawl and Guwahati, and the Eclectic Group’s signature event is not any run-off-the-mill beauty contest.

Press Conference of Pond's Eclectic Model Hunt 2015

Press Conference of Pond’s Eclectic Model Hunt 2015

The contest is organised over three different stages of Auditions, Grooming sessions by industry experts and the Grand Finale, and more than hundreds of contestants who appeared for the auditions 35 were selected for the 14 days grooming session in Guwahati, said the press release.

It said, during the grooming sessions, contestants were trained on different aspects of modelling such as communications, walk, choreography and soft skill developments, and on the basis of initial performances, top 15 contestants were selected to compete at the grand finale which is going to be held on November 29 at Pragjyoti ITA Machkhowa, which will be graced by celebrity judges, followed by cultural performances by popular artists of the region.

In the press conference held today at Guwahati Press Club, Tanushree Hazarika, Managing Director of Eclectic Group has emphasised on the importance of such platform for the young, talented and aspiring models from northeast, said the press release.

 

 

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/11/ponds-eclectic-model-hunt-comes-back/

CM launches ‘Make in Manipur’ campaign, envisages more job generation

IMPHAL, November 26: Rendering white collar job to all the unemployed youths of the State is next to impossible but the inculcation of private entrepreneurship will help in boosting economy

CM Ibobi lighting the inaugural lamp of the ‘Make in Manipur’ for Employment Generation at City Convention Centre. IFP Photo.

CM Ibobi lighting the inaugural lamp of the ‘Make in Manipur’ for Employment Generation at City Convention Centre. IFP Photo.

IMPHAL, November 26: Rendering white collar job to all the unemployed youths of the State is next to impossible but the inculcation of private entrepreneurship will help in boosting economy of the State, observed Chief Minister O Ibobi Singh.

He was speaking as chief guest of the launching ceremony of ‘Make in Manipur’ for Employment Generation at City Convention Centre, Palace Compound today.

Ibobi said that it is a headache for every government department to create jobs to meet the unemployment problem.

The Spinning Mill at Khabeisoi, Bamboo Chipping Mill at Jiribam, Sugar Mill at Kabowakching and MSRTC undertaken by the government failed miserably due to unfeasible loops, the CM admitted.

Exuding confidence that ‘Make in Manipur’ campaign will facilitate generation of employment mainly in the manufacturing sector for the youths who are struggling for livelihood, he asserted that availability of raw material alone will not enhance supply of finished products but proper industrial infrastructure and manpower may serve well.

There will be economy stability in the State only when youths acquire determination of work. However, law and order status of the State needs to improve as there had been instances where foreign investors had to discontinue funding due to the worsening law and order situation, Ibobi maintained.

Though the cost of Loktak Downstream Project was estimated at Rs 63 crore, the project was forced to discontinue owing to abduction of one of its engineers by underground outfits for ransom, he said. The estimated cost of the ambitious project has now reached Rs 1600 crores, he revealed.

Ibobi lauded Commerce & Industries minister Govindas Konthoujam for coming up with initiatives to continue sericulture projects though it was discontinued due to the deteriorating law and order situation despite the JICA providing the first phase funds.

Growth and development will come if the State can maintain peace and refrain from imposing bandhs and blockades, the CM said urging the people to take full advantage of the ‘Make in Manipur’ campaign.

During the function, Head of State Bank of India, Urban Bank of India and Manipur Rural Bank were facilitated for their co-operation in lending ‘Term Loans’ to the local entrepreneurs.

Delivering key note address, Chief Secretary O Nabakishore Singh stated that like Make in India, Make in Manipur with the initiative of Chief Minister was launched solely to generate employment in the State.

He asserted that Agriculture, Horticulture and Animal Husbandry sectors can be boosted further like that of service sector which contributes maximum to economy of the State.

The Chief Secretary mentioned that Manipur contributes 4.7 percent of the entire State GDP and 16 percent as nation-wide.

He said that the Central Government has marked to achieve 25 percent target to contribute in total GDP from the manufacturing sector.

Industrialization in the State will be boosted with the availability of 24×7 power supply from early 2016, he said.

Regretting that there is a lack of entrepreneurs in the State with fear of business risk, he mentioned that manufacture sector has more risks as it requires heavy investment for infrastructure and machineries.

Commerce & Industries and Sericulture Minister Govindas Konthoujam as chief host of the function hoped that the ‘Make in Manipur’ campaign will prove success with support from departments like Forest, Animal Husbandry, Sericulture, Fishery and others.

He announced that Fragrance & Flavour Development Centre (FFDC) will start business in the State soon using the State soil.

For this, Food Safety and Standard Authority of India (FSSAI) has sent samples to PEPSI and COCA COLA company which they already approved for using natural grown herbs as sweetening flavours in their products. To do the needful, large scale plantation has already been started, he informed.

The Minister further informed that a sum of Rs 13.5 crores has been sanctioned for For piggery, bee keeping and honey processing in the State and that Dabur company is also ready to integrate with the State products.

He said that frequent imposition of economic blockade has posed a big hurdle in growth and development of the State.

Today’s launching ceremony was also attended by Deputy Chief Minister Gaikhangam; Yaiskul MLA E Chand Singh; Principal Secretary (Vety & AH/Seri) L Lakher IAS and Commissioner (Commerce & Industries) VK Dewangan.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/11/cm-launches-make-in-manipur-campaign-envisages-more-job-generation/

Indian cinema is not Bollywood: Aribam Syam Sharma

PANAJI, November 25 (Agencies): Expressing his concern about the lack of importance given to regional films, eminent Manipuri filmmaker, Aribam Syam Sharma says the focus should not be on Bollywood movie as they

PANAJI, November 25 (Agencies): Expressing his concern about the lack of importance given to regional films, eminent Manipuri filmmaker, Aribam Syam Sharma says the focus should not be on Bollywood movie as they don’t represent Indian cinema.

Sharma, who is best known for his films “Lamja Parshuram”, “Imagi Ningthem” and “The Chosen One”, is the head of jury for feature films in the Indian Panorama section at the ongoing IFFI.

Aribam Syam Sharma

Aribam Syam Sharma while shooting “Leipaklei”

“Indian cinema is not only Bollywood or films with feel-good story line. We have films dealing with real- life in different regions, different cultures of our country. Such films need to be seen by the rest of the country. Diversity is the beauty of Indian culture,” Sharma said.

The filmmaker’s fellow jury member, actress-director Bijaya Jena said the concerned authorities should help region films and help filmmakers screen their movies at government- owned auditoriums.

“These films should be shown in different parts of the country in the auditoriums owned by government, without entertainment tax, so that the cost of ticket will be less. It will motivate the common man to experience something different from the mainstream cinema,” Bijaya said.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/11/indian-cinema-is-not-bollywood-aribam-syam-sharma/

Imbibe an international character to encourage development: Gaikhangam

IMPHAL, November 25: Deputy Chief Minister Gaikhangam today appealed to the people of the Moreh to consider themselves as from only one community ‘the trading community’ leaving aside all differences

IMG_8791

Dy CM Gaikhangam and Commerce secretary of Ministry of Commerce and Industry Rita Teaotia along with others in front of the inaugural plaque of the Market Complex. IFP Photo

IMPHAL, November 25: Deputy Chief Minister Gaikhangam today appealed to the people of the Moreh to consider themselves as from only one community ‘the trading community’ leaving aside all differences of culture, languages, dialects, traditions, etc. among them.

Appealing to the people to discard the village mentality and to develop an international character, he emphasised further that although we talk on the international level, our minds are left in the village level.

People need to fully understand that until and unless one doesn’t develop the mind and open up to the others, development and civilisation will not come about, he observed.

The deputy Chief Minister today inaugurated a multi storey market complex at the border town of Moreh constructed under the ASIDE scheme of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India.

The inaugural function was also attended by Commerce and Industries minister Govindas Konthoujam, 42 Tengnoupal AC MLA D Korungthang and Commerce secretary of Ministry of Commerce and Industry Rita Teaotia as president and guests of honour respectively.

Gaikhangam said this building should be used as effectively as possible with lots of activities going around as it has been constructed not only for a few people but for all.

He observed that Namphalong, the market on the other side of the international border is not a very big or very good market place however the people there are able to take full benefit of it.

Elaborating that the border trade was opened only to enhance trade and benefits of the people on both sides of the border, he lamented in the present scenario, the people on this side of the border is lacking much behind when compared to the other side.

We are mostly draining out our resources, he said observing that we should in fact be able to draw resources as well for which we need to officialise all trades.

Emphasising on the fame of the border town among those who visit the State, Gaikhangam said people come to Manipur with the desire to reach Moreh during their visit.

Moreh has today become an important place not only for the State but for the entire country, he said appealing to the people further to work towards making the place more attractive and be the trading hub it should be.

The North Eastern States including Manipur were once considered liabilities to the country, but now the Indian government has realised the potential of Manipur and that it is a great asset to the nation.

With the coming of the look east policy, India is ready to provide any kind of assistance or help to Manipur and the other NE States, he said, urging the people to grab the opportunity.

Both the State and the Centre are trying to develop Moreh, but there are still many obstacles hindering the process, he observed.

For any development we need space, and if there is no space at all, how are we going to take up the work, he asked?

He said if there was enough land or space, the market inaugurated wouldn’t have been multi-storied.

There are several disadvantages of a multi-storey building, he said observing “We need land banks, this is only the beginning.”

Manipur will be shining in the near future and for all that we need to start preparing from now, Gaikhangam said.

Rita Teaotia said the significance of Moreh in India’s trade scene as the single significant point of contact with Myanmar through land route is going to increase from December onwards.

“I am sure this is the demand of the government of Manipur as well as the people of Manipur as well as the logic of the historical trade that we have had with Myanmar through Moreh,” she said.

But as we enter into increasing the volumes of trade, the formalization of the trade, from next month we have to be ready for the challenges, she said.

She said one of the most important challenges is to have the infrastructure to facilitate trade between Myanmar and Moreh.

This multi storey shopping complex is one of the important elements to that trade, she said.

The reason for Government of India to fund these projects under ASIDE scheme is to create the necessary infrastructure to allow traders to carry on effectively, efficiently and economically the trade between two countries, she informed.

“I hope that this complex will provide the basis for the local trading community as well as the communities from entire Manipur to display the goods for purchase by the Myanmar traders and industries,” she added.

Minister Govindas speaking at the function informed that there are 82 shops, conference hall with 50 people seating capacity, car parking at the basement, food court, VIP suites and rooms for the caretakers in this multi storey market complex.

It was constructed with a cost of around Rs 21.71 crore, he said.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/11/imbibe-an-international-character-to-encourage-development-gaikhangam/

BJP wins Thongju and Thangmeiband seats handing Congress a resounding defeat

IMPHAL, November 24: In an impressive feat, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Manipur today won the bye-poll in the two constituencies of Thangmeiband and Thongju, handing over a resounding defeat

Manipur bypoll 2015

Successful candidates of the BJP Thongam Bishwajit (left) and Kh Joykishan recieving the election winning certificates from their respective EROs after the bye-election results were declared. IFP Photo

IMPHAL, November 24: In an impressive feat, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Manipur today won the bye-poll in the two constituencies of Thangmeiband and Thongju, handing over a resounding defeat for the ruling party in both Assembly constituencies.

In Thangmeiband Constituency, BJP’s Khumukcham Joykishan emerged the winner with a total vote count of 12,104 while his nearest rival Jyotin Waikhom of the Congress secured 10,197. The only other candidate Dr G Tonsana of the Manipur Democratic People’s Front received only 55 votes, while 72 persons pressed the None of the Above (NOTA) button.

In Thongju Constituency, BJP’s Thongam Bishwajit defeated his nearest rival by a margin of nearly 3000 votes which is far worse than the last election when Bishwajit had contested on a Manipur Pradesh Trinamool Congress ticket in 2012.

According to the election results, Bishwajit secured 14605 votes while his rival candidate Bijoy Koijam of the Congress secured 11393.

Dr Tonsana of the MDPF secured only 54 votes, while, 78 voters opted for NOTA.

There were no reject votes in both the assembly constituencies.

Many perceive the development to be a game changer to the almost 15 years of Congress rule in the State.

It may be mentioned that the Thongju and Thangmeiband Assembly seats were left vacant after the State Assembly Speaker disqualified the MLAs Th Bishwajit Singh and Kh Joykishan on May 27 under the anti-defection law following a petition moved by Andro MLA Thounaojam Shyamkumar.

Along with the two MLAs, Wangoi MLA O Lukhoi was also disqualified however, following an appeal before the High Court, the court had ruled in favour of the Wangoi MLA.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/11/bjp-wins-thongju-and-thangmeiband-seats-handing-congress-a-resounding-defeat/

EMA Ningol Chakouba 2015

Press Release EMA (European Manipuri Association) celebrated Ningol Chakouba on 14th November 2015 at Borstal, Kent in the UK, a day later than in Manipur. It was a hugely successful

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Press Release

EMA (European Manipuri Association) celebrated Ningol Chakouba on 14th November 2015 at Borstal, Kent in the UK, a day later than in Manipur. It was a hugely successful event with new and existing members gathering from all over Europe. Highlight of the event was the Food and most importantly Ningol Dokhina Thouram. Although the show was stolen by the kids shouting, running and playing around.

On the menu were mouth-watering Sareng thongba, Rou ataoba thongba, ooti, chagem pomba, khamen kanghau, thambou sinju, bora and other traditional items.

For the Dokhina, EMA Pibas were proud to be able to arrange for Muka Phee and Phanek for the Ningols, right from Manipur.

2015 EMA Ningol Chakouba also saw the rise of new talents. A drawing competition was held leading up to the event and winners were announced during the celebration with medals, certificates and winner’s trophies distributed. Children drew on the theme of “Phunga wari” and all entries were indeed praise worthy.

EMA also unveiled a calendar. The photos on it were contributed by EMA members and are of pictures taken by them in Manipur.

As the event concluded, members left with bulging bellies and smiles on their face, taking memories of the day entertained by the children with educational cum entertaining presentations.

 

Ningol Chakouba Photos:

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Drawing Competition Photos:

Over 3 yr - Atiya Sagolsem
Under 3 yr - Veda Samurailatpam
Under 3 yr - Tomba Miller
Under 3 yr - Thadoi Khagebam
Over 3 yr - Yoihen Sagolsem
Over 3 yr - Yaihan Leichombam
Over 3 yr - Swarna Okram
Over 3 yr - Pari Laishram
Over 3 yr - Mitsna Thoudam
Over 3 yr - Marina Mayanglambam
Over 3 yr - Likla Mayanglambam
Over 3 yr - Leima Louise Millar
Over 3 yr - Korou Salam
Over 3 yr - Henthoi Mayengbam
Over 3 yr - Eliza Ngangom
Over 3 yr - Bevin Okram

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/11/ema-ningol-chakouba-2015/

Aimols declare `We are not Nagas, Aimol will be Aimol` against Naga monolith

CHANDEL, November 20: A large number of people of the Aimol tribe took out a mass protest rally and staged a sit in protest against the erection of a monolith

Aimol tribe rally in Chandel district against tagging in to Naga NSCN Manipur

Aimol tribe rally in Chandel district against tagging to Naga

CHANDEL, November 20: A large number of people of the Aimol tribe took out a mass protest rally and staged a sit in protest against the erection of a monolith declaring the joining of Aimol into Naga tribe at Pallel Bazar today.

Hundreds of protestors including womenfolk took out the Mass Protest Rally starting from Aimol Ngairong Village and proceeded upto Unapal Lamkhai along the Imphal-Moreh section of National Highway 102 via Pallel Bazar and staged a sit in protest at a waiting shed of Pallel Bazar.

The protestors held several placards decrying `Naga Stone Erection in Aimol Land is not acceptable, We are not Naga, Aimol will be Aimo l- No suffix or prefix to the Aimol Tribe, We the Aimol people protest and condemn a monolith stone erection of Naga Stone in Aimol land, etc.`

Speaking in the sideline of the protest demonstration, Aimol Tribe Union Manipur (ATUM) president Akhel Aimol said that the majority of the Aimol people living in Churachandpur, Sadar Hills, Chandel and other places do not accept the declaration of Aimol as a Naga on April 13 last and subsequent erection of Monolith.

The said declaration and erection of the monolith is a handiwork of some individuals for their own vested interest with the support of just four villages out of 15 Aimol villages in Manipur, he added.

The Tribe`™s president also maintained that Aimol is a unique and indigenous tribe of the State having a distinct custom, culture, tradition and dialect.

The identity of one`™s tribe cannot be changed by mere erection of a monolith. As such Aimol cannot be a Naga by erecting a monolith even hundred times, said the president.

The Aimol Tribe`™s president further maintained that Aimol will remain as Aimol and will peacefully co-exist with other communities as it was before.

Chandel ADC member from 7- Aimol Tampak DCC, Ch Chanthoi Aimol who is also the advisor and a former Tribe`™s president said that despite the people of Aimol unanimously adopting the principle of neutrality in 2001 in which it was resolved that no individuals, tribe`™s president or village chief should dragged the Aimol Tribe into any other community`™s fold but should remain neutral as an Aimol, former president S Munthuireng in collusion with some Nagas declared Aimol as a Naga which is unacceptable to the people.

While condemning the act of selling away of one`™s identity like a goods, the ADC member further said that such act of selling away one`™s tribe for vested interest is unacceptable to all as well as to the people of Aimol.

We the Aimol will remain as Aimol and will be known as Aimol till our extinction, said the ADC member.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/11/aimols-declare-we-are-not-nagas-aimol-will-be-aimol-against-naga-monolith/

Dynamic Manipur’s Inspiration Episode – 9 stresses need for environment protection

IMPHAL, November 20: Continuing its program to inspire the younger generation through motivating talks from the resource persons, Dynamic Manipur organized Inspiration episode – 9, a talk event at the Library

PhotoGrid_1447989288946IMPHAL, November 20: Continuing its program to inspire the younger generation through motivating talks from the resource persons, Dynamic Manipur organized Inspiration episode – 9, a talk event at the Library and Information centre, Kakching with the theme “Environmental sustainability” on November 18, said a press release.

it said, Kamesh Salam, former president World Bamboo Organisation and founder World Bamboo day, RK Birjit, state co-ordinator of India Bird conservation Network and Dr. L Bijen Meetei, Junior Research officer, Directorate of Environment, Manipur stressed on the need for conserving the deteriorating environment through sustainable development as the resource persons.

The press release stated that Kamesh Salam said about Bamboo as a perennial grass which grows in every continent except Europe and Antarctica and is abundant in southern Asia, and added that there are about 255 varieties of bamboo and among 57 varieties in India, 44 are found in the northeast, and said that Manipur has abundant resource of bamboo with which the economy of the state could be strengthened.

It said, he emphasized on the need for rampant use of bamboo products in construction of houses, furniture and other items as bamboo is eco-friendly and conducive to protecting the degrading environment.

R.K. Birjit said about two potential bird species extinct for every half hour in the world due to change in the climatic condition, and explained about extinct of bird species due to  climate change posed by human activities which gives a clear evidence of possible extinct of human beings from the mother earth after some years to come, said the press release.

It said, the event was organized by Dynamic Manipur with LRS INDIA, S.S. Electronics, Manipur Creations, Babina Diagnostics, The Classic Hotel, Imphal, Globizs Web Solutions, Shija Hospitals & Research Institute, HVS Constructions Materials Pvt. Ltd. as Sponsoring Partners while Green Biotech, CC Tea – The Sui Generis, MIMS, Manipur University, Korea Manipuri Association (KMA), Manipuri Association of Canada (MAC), North American Manipur Association (NAMA), Likla – Thangjam Agro Industries Pvt. Ltd., Imphal, WiseWorld Immigration & Education Consultants, Toronto, Canada as endorsing Partners, and WOL Media, Siroi Offset Printers, Thoubal, Globizs Web Solutions, Media Partners, E-pao, Impact TV, Manipur Times, The Peoples’ Chronicle supported the event as advertising, Printing and Technology Partners.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/11/dynamic-manipurs-inspiration-episode-9-stresses-need-for-environment-protection/