2 Boxers from Manipur, Laishram Devendro & Sarita, storm into the Finals of Glasgow 2014 XX CW Games

Glasgow 02-Aug-2014: Laishram Sarita , a native of Manipur, fights her way into the Final of Women’s Light Category in the Commonwealth Games at Glasgow 2014. She defeated Maria Mochongua of

Glasgow 02-Aug-2014:

Laishram Sarita , a native of Manipur, fights her way into the Final of Women’s Light Category in the Commonwealth Games at Glasgow 2014. She defeated Maria Mochongua of Mozambique in all the 4 rounds of Semi-final bout.

Sarita was born in a poor agricultural family in Thoubal district Manipur. She used to spend her time helping her parents in collecting firewood and in the fields, which helped her build the stamina she has today.

In the final bout, she will face S. Watts of Australia scheduled for 2nd August, 14.15 BST.

In another bout on the same day, Laishram Devendro, a talented World No 3 (Light Fly) boxer from Manipur, storms into the Finals of the ongoing XX Commonwealth Games at Glasgow 2014. He has an easy bout against his semi-final opponent Ashley Williams of Welsh and won by 3:0.

With this win, he is assured of at least a Silver Medal in the Men’s Light Fly (49 Kg ) Category.

In the Final bout scheduled for 2nd August, 14:30 BST, Devendro will fight against Paddy Barnes of Northern Ireland, a tough and experienced world class boxer. Paddy Barnes currently holds World No 3 in 53 Kg category, however came down to 49Kg category in the Glasgow 2014 XX Commonwealth Games.

Kanglaonline team wishes all the best to Laishram Devendro and Laishram Sarita for their final bouts.

Follow updates here: http://kanglaonline.com/2014/07/manipur-in-glasgow-2014-commonwealth-games-live-updates/

Chief Minister on inauguration spree

Non-completion of projects within deadline a huge burden, says Ibobi IMPHAL, July 30: State Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh inaugurated an RCC bridge at Chingarel in Khurai constituency constructed over

Source: IFP
Chief Minister O Ibobi inaugurating one of the bridges on Wednesday.

Non-completion of projects within deadline a huge burden, says Ibobi

IMPHAL, July 30: State Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh inaugurated an RCC bridge at Chingarel in Khurai constituency constructed over the Iril River, today.

Construction of the bridge with a width of 7.50 metres and a length of 60 metres, began two years ago.

Later in the day, the Chief Minister inaugurated two more bridges, a community hall and an Apparel Training & Design Centre, Vocational Institute.

Speaking at the bridge inauguration ceremony, Ibobi stated that better means of transport and communication is the backbone for a faster and better development.

Moreover, economic conditions will improve with better road connectivity.

Expressing his belief that the Chingaren Bridge will not only provide better connectivity but will also ensure the economic upliftment of the nearby villagers, he commended the concerned authorities for completing the bridge two months ahead of the scheduled time.

Ibobi said that development projects in any place of the State if not completed within a scheduled time by maintaining quality gives a huge burden to the government and extra funds needed to be sanctioned.

Lauding Khurai MLA Dr Ng Bijoy for mounting pressure to maintain quality and complete the construction of the bridge quickly, the Chief Minister urged all the other MLAs to have an eye on the development projects in their constituency for better development and maintaining the quality of the projects.

The DONER ministry under the Non Lapsable Central Pool of Resources funded the construction of the bridge. The construction of the bridge began from August 2012 with an estimated cost of Rs six crores.

Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh also inaugurated the newly constructed Saiton Bridge, Kumbi Bridge and Phaougakchao Community Hall at Bishnupur.

Meanwhile, inaugurating the Apparel Training and Design Centre, ATDC at the Trade Centre Building, DIC Complex, Porompat, Chief Minister Okram Ibobi said there is tremendous scope for the fashion industry in the State based on the ethnic designs and motifs.

The inaugural function was also attended by Commerce and Industry minister Govindas Konthoujam, and Apparel Export Promotion Council chairman Virendar Uppal.

The Chief Minister continued that Manipur is home to various ethnic communities having their own traditional attires and textile products with distinctive designs.

He added that Manipur handloom products are also well known in the country as well as abroad.

He further expressed his gratitude to the ATDC team led by chairman Virender Uppal for its initiative in opening the vocational institute at Imphal.

He further said that India is a vast country with a large population and around 500 million youth looking for jobs in the country.

There is a great need to impart appropriate skills to the youths to enable them to get suitable jobs, he added.

The Chief Minister also said that the textile sector is the second largest employment provider segment after Agriculture and engages over 45 million people directly and indirectly in the country.

Textiles apparel industries contribute 14 percent of the national industrial production and 17 percent of the country’s export earnings, Ibobi asserted.

He further said that, he was informed that the ATDC, Imphal has trained and given employment to over 200 youths. Imparting training on apparel and design to the youths is an important means of mitigating the unemployment problems in the state.

Further the CM added that the vocational institute will provide greater opportunity for importing higher skills to the youths by conducting training programmes on designs and technology.

CM assured that the state Government will continue to extend full support to ATDC for its programmes and projects in the state.

He also added that the Institute will play a big role in improving the employment and economic condition of the state.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2014/07/chief-minister-on-inauguration-spree/

52 Various Post to be recruited by Manipur PSC

Manipur Public Service Commission has notified for recruitment at various posts. The candidates eligible for the post may apply through prescribed format before August 25, 2014. Vacancies: 52 Manipur Education

Manipur Public Service Commission has notified for recruitment at various posts. The candidates eligible for the post may apply through prescribed format before August 25, 2014.

Photo Credit: Results.in

Vacancies: 52
Manipur Education Service Grade- III: 41
Inspector of Taxes: 8
Deputy Director (TRI): 1
Under Secretary (Law): 1
Assistant Draftsman (Law): 1

Pay Scale
Rs.9300-34800/- + GP Rs.4300/- for Manipur Education Service Grade- III.
Rs.9300-34800/- + GP Rs.4200/- for Inspector of Taxes.
Rs.9300-34800/- + GP Rs.5400/- for Deputy Director (TRI), Under Secretary (Law) and Assistant Draftsman (Law).

Eligibility Criteria

Educational Qualification
Manipur Education Service Grade- III: Candidates should have a Master’s degree with B.Ed.
Inspector of Taxes: Candidates should be at least a graduate with minimum 55 per cent marks & have done a certificate course in basic Computer Application.
Deputy Director (TRI): Candidates should have a master degree in Sociology/History/Political Science/Anthropology/Geography.
Under Secretary (Law): Candidates should have a bachelor or master degree in Law or equivalent.
Assistant Draftsman (Law): candidates should have a degree in Law or equivalent and adequate proficiency in English and Manipuri.

Age Limit
Candidates should belong to the age group of 21 years to 38 years as on July 01, 2014 for Manipur Education Service Grade- III.
Age limit of the candidates should not exceed 38 years as on July 01, 2014 for remaining posts.

Selection Process
Eligible candidates will have to go through a written examination and the short listed candidates will be called for an Interview. before final selection.

Application Form
The prescribed application form can be obtained from the counter of MPSC office at Imphal during office hours w.e.f. 25-July, 2014.

How to Apply
Application Form, duly complete in all respect along with attested copies of all required Certificates / Documents and mentioned as “Application for the Post of ________” on the envelope in which the form would be sent should be submitted to the Manipur Public Service Commission, North AOC/ D.M. Road, Imphal-795001 Manipur/ India
Candidates should mention “Application for the Post of ________” on the envelope in which the form would be sent.

Application fee
General/OBC category applicants have to pay Rs.200/- and SC/ST category candidates have to pay Rs.50/- as application fees in cash payable to Secretary, Manipur Public Service Commission, Imphal.
Physically Handicapped candidates are exempted from examination fee.

Important Dates
Opening Date of Application Forms: July 25, 2014
Closing Date of Application Forms: August 25, 2014

Source: MPSC, Manipur

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2014/07/52-various-post-to-be-recruited-by-manipur-psc/

What is Eid-Ul-Fitr ?

By Ahmed Ali What is Eid -Ul -Fitr? The word Eid, literally means the recurring happiness.Eid-ul- fitr also called as lesser Eid, is an important religious holiday celebrated by

By Ahmed Ali

What is Eid -Ul -Fitr?

The word Eid, literally means the recurring happiness.Eid-ul- fitr also called as lesser Eid, is an important religious holiday celebrated by Muslims worldwide that marks the end of Ramadaan,the Islamic of fasting (sawm), from sunrise to sunset, have restrained themselves from material and spiritual vices .The Eid is a single day during which Muslims are not permitted to fast.

When is Eid-Ul-Fitr?

The Eid-ul-Fitr celebrates the conclusion of dawn to sunset fasting during the entire month of Ramadan, the most venerated month of Hijri calendar. The Eid, therefore, fall on first day of Shawwal, and the tenth month in the Islamic lunar calendar. This is the day Muslims around the world show a common goal of unity. The date for the start of any lunar hijri month varies based on the observation of new moon by local religious authorities, such as Ruiyat e Hilal, in India, so the exact day of celebration varies by locality. However in most countries, it is generally on the same day as Saudi Arabia. Traditionally it is the day of the first sighting of the crescent moon shortly after sunset. If the moon is not observed, immediately after 29 day of the previous lunar month, then it is the following day.

How Eid is celebrated:

Eid ul fitr has a particular salaah consisting of two rakaah and generally offered in Idgah, open field or, mosque. It may perform only in congregation and has an extra additional takbeers, three of them in beginning of the first rakaah and three of them just before ruku in the second rakaah. Common greeting during this holiday is EID MUBARAK. There is no obligation for woman to pray salatul Eid, however, they are encouraged to, and so, women may join the congregation in masjids that facilitates for women. No call to prayer is given for this prayer, The Eid prayer is followed by a sermon and then a supplication asking for God’s forgiveness, mercy peace, blessing for all the living beings across the world. After the salaah Muslims embrace each other saying “Takabbal Allahu Minna wa Minkum” (May Allah accepts this worship from us and you).Muslims visit their relatives, friends and acquaintances or hold large communal celebrations. In addition, Muslims visit graveyard, and pray for their soul.

Eid gift known as eidi are frequently given to children and relatives.

Interesting facts:

Muslims are encouraged on this day to forgive and forget any differences with others or animosities that may have occurred during the year.

Muslims believed that they are commanded by Allah, as mentioned in the Quran, to continue the fast until the last day of Ramadaaan and pay

Zakat, One of the five pillars of Islam. An obligatory charity given to the poor, It is considered to be a

responsibility to ease the economic hardship for other Muslims and eliminate the inequality. It is vital to remember Muslims around the worlds who are less fortunate.

Fitra (obligatory form of charity given to the poor).In order to, poor too, can celebrate and enjoy the Eid.Usually the head of the household pays on behalf of every one in his/her family.

Some important points to remember before Eid salaah:

Take shower
Put on new clothes (or best available) and apply perfumes.
Pay Fitra (as an obligatory act of charity, money is paid to the poor and needy.
Eat some sweets preferably a date.
Recommended to use separate route to and from the Masjid/Idgah.
Recite in a low voice while going and returning from mosque “ALLAHU AKBAR, ALLAHU AKBAR, ALLAHU AKBAR, LA ILAHA IALLA-LAH WAL LAHU AKBAR, ALAAHU AKBAR WALIL-LAHI L HAMD”.

Typically, practicing Muslims wake up early (always before sun rise) offer salatul Fajr keeping with traditions of prophet .It is forbidden to fast on the Day of Eid (Sahih Muslim Vol.No.2 Book of Fasting, Hadith 2534)

For Muslims Eid-ul-fitr is occasion for showing gratitude to God and remembering Him and is an occasion of entertainment.

We must all remember after we have left Ramadaan and Eid behind that our purpose remains to always seek the pleasure of Allah by glorifying Him and rendering thanks to Him for having bestowed such blessings upon s and enabling us tom perform our daily duties.

[ The writer currently lives in Manchester, UK and is working in Central Manchester University Hospitals, NHS Foundation Trust. He can be contacted at: ahmed-ali(at)doctor(dot)com ]

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2014/07/what-is-eid-ul-fitr/

Students continue ILP agitation

IMPHAL, July 25: Students continue to agitate demanding the implementation of the ILP, today totally disregarding the State government’s order for educational institutes to remain close for three days starting

Students ran amok as police resorted to firing smoke bombs, tear gas shells in an attempt to quell the agitating students.
Source :IFP

Students from various institutes today tried to storm the ongoing Assembly, but ware blocked by a huge police presence at the DM college western gate.

Around 400 students were seen jostling to pass the police barricade, but police resorted to firing tear gas shells to disorient the student mob.

Students also used banners condemning excessive police action against them.

A Large number of police force was deployed including women constable to control the students.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2014/07/students-continue-ilp-agitation-2/

Bangladesh sending its death squads for the UN Peacekeeping missions: ACHR

Bangladesh sending its death squads for the UN Peacekeeping missions- BGB being denied UN postings while India’s BSF personnel serve with various UN Missions -New Delhi: Asian Centre for Human Rights

Bangladesh sending its death squads for the UN Peacekeeping missions

– BGB being denied UN postings while India’s BSF personnel serve with various UN Missions –

New Delhi: Asian Centre for Human Rights in its report, “BANGLADESH: SENDING DEATH SQUADS TO KEEP THE UN’s PEACE”
(http://www.achrweb.org/reports/DPKO-Bangladesh.pdf), the first ever comprehensive study on the issue released today to coincide with the ongoing visit of United Nations under secretary general for department of peacekeeping operations (DPKO) Hervé Ladsous to Bangladesh from 22 July 2014 stated that Bangladesh is sending its death squads to keep peace for the United Nations.

The troops which are being sent for UN peacekeeping missions include the Bangladesh Army personnel who are posted in the Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHTs) and the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB), which has been declared as ineligible to receive technical assistance from the United States under the Leahy Law because of its personnel being involved in gross human rights violations with impunity. Between 2004 and 2011, the Bangladesh Army personnel were responsible for 15 cases of extrajudicial killings,
464 cases of arbitrary arrest, 374 cases of torture and 285 cases of forcible evictions in addition to burning down of 1,070 houses of indigenous Jumma peoples of the CHTs. Bangladesh Army personnel also murdered at least 70 suspects of 2009 Bangladesh Rifles (BDR) mutiny at Pilkhana in their custody while the RAB which had 83 Army officers out of the 208 officers as of August 2013 were responsible for extra-judicial executions of 776 persons in alleged cross fire between January 2004 and June 2013. A large number of these human rights violators have been posted with the UN peace keeping missions.

“The cross-fire is a blatant cover up of the extra-judicial executions by the RAB. Since its inception in 2004, not a single death has been due to innumerable crossfire incidents, which supposedly involve cross-firing with criminal gangs and terrorist groups. About 18 RAB personnel were killed in the Pilkhana massacre and the rest died in road accidents.” – stated Mr Suhas Chakma, Director of Asian Centre for Human Rights.

Serving in a UN peacekeeping mission is deemed so lucrative [as a Bangladesh Army officer earn upwards of US $2,200 a month in addition to other allowances and parks for an officer against Taka 15,000 (about US $200) for an officer in the country and US $1,100 for a soldier, against Taka 7,717 (about US $100)] that Bangladesh Army has systematically monopolised the UN postings. Bangladesh Army constitutes 93% of the peacekeepers deployed from Bangladesh while the remaining 7% are from Bangladesh Police, Navy and Air Force personnel.

In fact, the denial of opportunities to serve with the UN missions was one of the main reasons for the revolt by the BDR personnel at Pilkhana, Dhaka on 25 February 2009 in which a total of 74 persons including 57 Army Officers deputed to the BDR from the army were massacred. The 10-member Investigation Committee formed by the Government of Bangladesh instead of resolving the grudge of the BDR personnel purposely misled the country by stating that the “United Nations has objected to the proposal of BDR
members being taken to foreign missions. Bangladesh Government has no jurisdiction in this matter”.

“This is another blatant lie as India’s Border Security Force personnel who are equivalent of the BDR in Bangladesh are regularly deployed for UN Missions and have previously served in Namibia, Cambodia, Mozambique, Angola, Bosnia & Herzegovina and Haiti. That Bangladesh refuses to include the BDR personnel, rechristened as Border Guards Bangladesh, despite a national tragedy like Pilkhana massacre shows the vested interest of the Bangladesh Army to monopolise the UN postings.” – further stated Mr
Chakma.

About 7% of the Bangladesh Army constantly remain deployed in UN Peacekeeping missions at any given point of time and the UN has been steadily contributing to increasing militarisation in the country and extending the grip of the Army on the country. Bangladesh increased its defence budget by over 11% for the Financial Year 2011-12, among others, to purchase 44 new Main Battle Tanks, three Armoured Recovery Vehicles and two brand new helicopters for the army from China to provide logistical
support allegedly for UN peacekeeping missions.

As a number of human rights violators from Bangladesh have been posted with the UN peacekeeping missions, Asian Centre for Human Rights called upon the United Nations to strictly implement “Human Rights Screening of United Nations Personnel Policy” of December 2012 to bar deployment of such violators.

North East HIP Online fashion Retailer Feerol Vacancies

North East HIP Online fashion Retailer Feerol (www.feerol.com) is looking for exciting people with the following profile. JOB LOCATION: ImphalWork Timings : Flexible work timings but officially goes with 10-5.1) Stylist/blogger/Procurement

North East HIP Online fashion Retailer Feerol (www.feerol.com) is looking for exciting people with the following profile.

JOB LOCATION: Imphal
Work Timings : Flexible work timings but officially goes with 10-5.

1) Stylist/blogger/Procurement ( full time 10 – 5 )
Pre Requisites:– Qualification – 12+ ( a degree is preferred but never mind if you have the can do it thing)

– Should be able to operate basic computer functionalities ( browsing, printing , files management etc)

Main responsibilities include
• Strong writing skills especially with Fashion as a subject
• Providing fashion advice, choosing and co-ordinating outfits for models in photo shoots
• Keeping up to date with current and changing trends in fashion and design.
• Advising team on fashion styling for visuals on multiple platforms
• Purchasing props for shoots from sourcing units.
• Supervising photo shoots
• A craze for fashion blogging is a major plus point

2) IT Operation
Pre Requisites: – Qualification – any degree

Experience – 1-3 yrs
– A very good PHOTOSHOP skill and expertise is mandatory as training is not provided for this position
– Good computer knowledge with software and hardware troubleshooting skills
– Video editing and creation skills.
– Expertise in photography is great or good if you have an interest
– Good spoken English and a very cool attitude.

Contact Us : hiring@feerol.com or Call : 8087734111

About Feerol: We are passionate about fashion in real life. We carry a strong sense of fashion and would like to reach out to the real public in different corners. We believe this country has a lot of room to grow when it comes to **what to wear and what not to wear** We bring the latest trend in fashion for all ages and yet at a price very affordable. Our collection stands very different from the on-line shops available today. Check out yourself on varieties of fashion accessories. We simply believe in fashion being a passion and Feerol Fashions is there to provide you exactly that !!

Feerol just completed the initial year of operation as a startup and will continue to be in pilot for the next 6 months before we go for official PR launch. It’s a great opportunity to join a dynamic team with big targets in the coming months.

Manipur Judoka Sushila Likmabam won Silver Medal in Glasgow 2014 XX Commonwealth Games

Glasgow 25th Jul 2014: Manipur Judoka Sushila Likmabam won Silver Medal in the women’s 48kg category defeating Aussie rival Chloe Rayner in two minutes and 23 seconds. Sushila got a couple of Wazaris

Glasgow 25th Jul 2014:

Manipur Judoka Sushila Likmabam won Silver Medal in the women’s 48kg category defeating Aussie rival Chloe Rayner in two minutes and 23 seconds. Sushila got a couple of Wazaris which is equivalent to an ‘Ippon’ which finished the bout.

Sushila Likmabam – Silver Medal in Glasgow 2014 XX Commonwealth Game
Photo: Zee News

She had earlier defeated Amy Meyer of Australia in 2 minutes and 38 seconds in the quarter-finals while she got better of Mani Medza Effe of Cameroon in a minute and 41 seconds in the pre-quarterfinals.

ALSO SEE:

Manipur in Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games – Live Updates

On the other hand, Chana defeated Daniel le Grange of South Africa in their semi-final meeting.

The 30-year-old Navjot Chana, who is employed with Punjab Police, had earlier defeated 23-year-old Tom Pappas of Australia in quarter-final.

Sushila and Navjot guaranteed medals for India.

2 Manipuri Lifters won Gold and Silver in women’s 48Kg, Opens first Gold Medal for India in Glasgow2014 Commonwealth’s Games

Glasgow 25th Jul, 2014: Khumukcham Sanjita Chanu and Saikhom Mirabai Chanu of Manipur bagged a gold and silver, respectively, in women`s 48kg weightlifting in a display of overwhelming domination to

Glasgow 25th Jul, 2014: Khumukcham Sanjita Chanu and Saikhom Mirabai Chanu of Manipur bagged a gold and silver, respectively, in women`s 48kg weightlifting in a display of overwhelming domination to open India`s medal account on the opening day of the competition in the 20th Commonwealth Games here on Thursday.

Sanjita and Mirabai after winning Gold and Silver Medals in Glasgow commonwealth’s Games 2014.
Zee Media Bureau/ Suyash SrivastavaG

Sanjita won with a total lift of 173kg (77+96) while Mirabai grabbed the silver with a cumulative
effort of 170 (75+95) in the absence of other strong competitors.

It was basically a contest between the two Manipuris in an event which India had dominated for long in the Commonwealth Games from the days of Kunjarani Devi.

Kunjarani, now a women`s coach, was beside the two state mates on the platform, egging Sanjita and Mirabai in her vernacular language. India had won a silver and bronze in this category in 2010.

The clean and jerk contest went on almost similar lines with Sanjita and Mirabai taking the bar and the bell after most of their opponents had exhausted their attempts below the 90kg entry weight of the two Indians.

Sensing that they could be in for top two positions, the Indian duo raised their entry weight to over 90kg and put pressure and physical exertion on their opponents who had to continue their attempts in quick succession.

There was a brief moment of tension in the Indian camp after Opara and Mirabai lifted 92kg, and Sanjita failed to clear the same weight. But Sanjita lifted 92kg in her second attempt to give a sigh of relief to the Indian camp.

The contest left to be fought between the two Indians, Mirabai lifted 95kg to put herself in contention, but Sanjita roared back with a 96kg lift to retain the first position.

Source: PTI

Melodious Mangka

By Khogen Khoibam ‘Pena is like my friend. Pena accompanies me when I am lonely’ IFP: Who is Mangka and what is she? Mangka: It all started with the background of

By Khogen Khoibam

‘Pena is like my friend. Pena accompanies me when I am lonely’

IFP: Who is Mangka and what is she?

Mangka: It all started with the background of art in our family and the organisation of my father. Dancers and musicians used to come frequently and practice at our home mingling with my father and I was somehow drawn into it. Sometimes, I used to sneak out and practice dance.

I was in 5th standard, knowing my strong inclination in dance and music, my father once asked me whether I was really interested in music, and I replied ‘yes’ and then he took me to Grandma Thoinu and my music training was started. And to come over to Pena, it had been always there in our family and I was fascinated by it since my childhood though I could not play it properly that time as I found it quite heavy too (…laugh) but my father being a Pena player, I got inspired from him and I gradually started to play it from my 6th standard under the training of Grandpa Khangembam Mangi. And that is how I am here now.

IFP: Who is your role model or inspiration?

Mangka: My father, of course!

IFP: How do you manage your time to practice Pena with your academic?

Mangka: Of course Pena has to be practiced consistently but I also need to go to college regularly and I just need one hour in the morning and in the evening to practice Pena, followed by coaching a few students, and that is enough for me.

IFP: What is Pena to you?

Mangka: Pena is like my friend. Pena accompanies me when I am lonely and I just play it and sing and become happy.

IFP: Being an artist, do you find yourself different from others?

Mangka: I am different because what I am doing is different and I am proud of it but I do not have the pride and never thought that ‘I am the best’.

IFP: What else do you love in the form of art apart from playing Pena?

Mangka: I love theatre and for sure dance and music and there are many I would love to do and know, for example I want to learn Piano.

IFP: Tell me about your experience in participating Asia Pacific Broadcasting Radio Song Festival 2014?

Mangka: Well, I would say it was great experience and a hectic journey too. A girl and I were selected from Manipur by All India Radio (AIR), Imphal and we were sent to Delhi. There, all the participants from several states of India were made to play their tracks and after listening to them by the panel of judges, a male artist from Bangalore and I were selected and sent to Colombo. There again, the members of ABU considered our tracks and I was finally selected for ABU Radio Song Festival.

Before heading for Colombo, AIR organised a special concert for me in Chennai and during my stay there, I had to cope up with change in food and weather and eventually I became too hectic by the time I reached Colombo. Deprived of energy, I had to go directly to Stein Studios for rehearsal but somehow I revived my energy when I took over the stage and rehearsal was performed perfectly.

Next day was the main event of two hours, in which other seven countries, Brunei, Malaysia, Thailand, Singapore, Australia, South Korea and Pakistan and three artists from Sri Lanka, were to perform.

(Her mother, Rebika Mayanglambam added in between): Mangka was selected out of around 50 songs by different artists throughout India and after she was selected, we had some issues financially and government of India did not look upon it but Bijaya Yumlembam, Programme Officer, AIR and the editor of Hueyen Lanpao, helped her with Rs. 60,000 and she was able to make it to Colombo.

IFP: Heard about the appreciations for you in the event, how did it all go?

Mangka: About the performance, people were amazed when I represented India as my look is oriental and it was quite contrasting with the people’s expectation. Most of the people were not ready to accept when I said “I am an Indian” and the irony is that, no one knew where is Manipur (…laugh) and I had to re-locate Manipur in the world map. But I was all the time loved and liked by the people and particularly from Asian countries like Japan, Vietnam appreciated me immensely. We shared a good rapport between us.

IFP: What is the actual genre of music you perform? People say it is as folk music, do you agree?

Mangka: There has always been a misconception by the people and I have been waiting for long to clarify that what I perform or sing is not a folk song or music but it is based on the folk music, with some upgradation like mixing with guitar. The songs are composed by my father and lyrics are also written by him. Real folk music or song is totally different from what I am doing.

(Her mother added): Mangka mostly focuses on the song which is powered by Pena but now it is becoming more of a Pena and many young boys and girls are inspired by her and have joined the Pena workshop on every Thursday and Sunday at Lai Hui, an organisation run by Mangka’s father, Mayanglambam Mangangsana.

IFP: While you are on the stage, your performance is outstanding. Do you make it that way or it just comes with the mood?

Mangka: Well, the movement and the way of performance are just spontaneous and the gestures might have come out from my dancing skills. Even if I plan for something to do on the stage, music always dominates it and everything goes with the mood and flow of the music. But to add up, sometimes it depends on the lyrics too, as how to demonstrate the meaning of the song with the movements and gestures of the hands and body.

IFP: Has there been any incident in your life that strongly inspired you to do this?

Mangka: I am into this field of music by my own choice and I am not doing this by someone’s influence. My inspiration is my father and I love all the performances by Lai Hui…truly and madly I love it (…laugh).

IFP: Tell me some of the criticisms you heard about you?

Mangka: There are lots, many people criticise that what I am doing is something a granny should do but I do not care and I am not ashamed of it. People even said that I will not be able to concentrate in studies and my academic will be in disaster but I have proved that wrong when I passed out my matriculation in first division and later on again in intermediate, now I am pursuing my graduation. Still there are lots of people who back-bites about me but fortunately I find more people who encourage me and I am happy about it.

(Her mother added): There is need from the family side to support effectively so as to balance the academic and artistic career and we never force her to top in studies and my daughter is quite tactful to manage everything.

IFP: Is there any upcoming projects in the pipeline?

Mangka: Well, there is going to be a music album in the month of August which is produced by Our Village, which is runned by Oinam Doren. The music album will be made by funds from the crowd from wherever possible and there will be nine songs of pure folk music.

(Her mother added): Oinam Doren has been following and capturing performances of Mangka since her childhood and she had also sung for his film ‘My Hands’.

IFP: Lastly, what is your view on people’s attitude towards an artist?

Mangka: Yes, most of the people commonly think of an artist as some kind of outrageous being and this is because usually artists of our olden years were somehow academically weak though they were artistically very high, may be they must have had a hard time to cope up and balance with the society but now time has changed with more opportunities opening up. And this does not mean that everything is framed for you and to be an artist is to work hard with maximum support from the family side too, which is much needed.

Finally, to share about the people’s attitude for an artist, I would say still there is a biased nature and more preferences are given more to the people who work as government servants. As for example, most of the parents prefer their children to become a doctor or an engineer, and I am not criticizing them, it is alright if they really want that. As for me, I want to become a professor or a scholar (…laughs loud) but I am an artist too.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2014/07/melodious-mangka/

Hemochandra elected new MOA president

IMPHAL, 14 July 2014: PHED & Labour minister I Hemochandra Singh was elected president of the Manipur Olympic Association today. Members of the executive council Manipur Olympic Association today made the announcement at the Olympc Bhavan, Khuman Lampak Sports Complex. The election was held on April 4. Explaining the belated announcement of the result, returning officer, Radhakumar Singh said the result was kept withheld following an order from the Supreme Court and the ballot boxes were kept in the treasury office till today. The Supreme Court had on July 4 ordered declaration of the result by July 15, he said. Other elected members of the executive council are Sunil Elangbam as secretary, M Prithiviraj Singh as treasurer), Dr GA Ibopishak Sharma, A Baruni Singh, M Chourjit Singh, Jotin Waikhom, Th Joykumar Singh, Dr Kh Loken Singh as vice presidents, GA Sanatomba Sharma, Dr S Shantikumar Singh, T Dushanta Singh, K Achoubi singh as joint secretaries, M Biramani Singh, Y Bony Singh, L Shantakeshor Singh, Y Ibotombi Singh, Ng Inaocha Singh, A Johnson, Prof Joykumar Leishemba, L Phunil Singh, Ng Thoiba Singh, G Tombi Sharma as executive Mmembers. Hemochandra congratulated the newly elected executive members. He also said that the delay in the announcement of the election results had created much inconvenience in the sports institution of the State. He further expressed that the MOA will extend its duty with full integrity and added that a Sports University is in the pipeline. Hemochandra further said that it is time to gear up for the upcoming National Games at Kerala.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2014/07/hemochandra-elected-new-moa-president/

World Cup 2014 Final !

FIFA World Cup 2014 Final – Betting ! “On the Skew” Cartoon Series from award winning KO cartoonist Manas Maisnam Check out the “On the Skew” Series here: http://kanglaonline.com/category/cartoons-galleries/on-the-skew/ Read More: “KanglaOnline congratulates Manas Maisnam

FIFA World Cup 2014 Final – Betting !

“On the Skew” Cartoon Series from award winning KO cartoonist Manas Maisnam

FIFA 2014 World Cup Bet

Check out the “On the Skew” Series here: http://kanglaonline.com/category/cartoons-galleries/on-the-skew/

Read More: “KanglaOnline congratulates Manas Maisnam for his Special Jury award.”
http://kanglaonline.com/2014/06/manas-meisnam-won-the-special-jury-appreciation-award-in-cartoon-competition/

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2014/07/world-cup-2014-final/

100 Crore Sports University to be set up in Manipur : Union Budget 2014

Indian government has finally stood up for the cause of Sports in India. FM Arun Jaitley pointed out that India has failed as a country to introduce sports in its

Indian government has finally stood up for the cause of Sports in India. FM Arun Jaitley pointed out that India has failed as a country to introduce sports in its main-stream academic activities. To remedy the situation, Modi government will set up national-level Sports Academies for major games in different parts of the countries.

For accomplished athletes at junior and sub-junior-levels, academics with international-level training facilities will be set up in India. Sport Academies for Shooting, Archery, Boxing, Wrestling, various Track and Field events and Weighlifting have also been announced.

To nurture the sporting talent of Jammu & Kashmir, budgetary allocation of Rs 200 crore has been made. These funds will be used to build international-level sports stadiums for indoor and outdoor sports in the state. Northeast states have received a gift of a Sports University at Manipur in Union Budget 2014. Rs 100 crore has been allotted for the purpose.

To promote unique sports traditions of the Himalayan Region, annual games events will be organized in J&K, northeastern states, Sikkim, Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh. Bordering Himalayan countries like Nepal and Bhutan will also be invited to participate in such events.

Rs 100 crore has especially been allocated to train sportsmen and sports women of India for upcoming Asian and Commonwealth Games. Jaitley has also announced a Centre for Disability Sports to empower differently-abled persons to live a life of dignity in a more inclusive society.

Source: http://www.prepsure.com/news/union-budget-2014-education-sector-jaitley-announces-national-sports-academies-sports-university-at-manipur/

A GLIMPSE ON MANIPURI AMAIBAS AND AMAIBIS

Maibi Jagoi
Photo Courtesy: Indianetzone.com

Manipur’s, ‘Amaiba and Amaibis’ can be regarded as the pioneers of certain traditional medical discoverers. Whole over the World, there are always some types of ancient medical practitioners, they may be called as “Witches or Tantrik” or any other forms of names, but their knowledge sometime helped in the development of the modern medicine. It would be wrong that our ‘Amaibas and Amaibis used only the Chaban Thaba and Mantra Jantra’ rituals, they also used some very effective medicinal/herbal plants e.g. lamangkha, nongmangkha, langthrei, peruk etc. The anomaly is that if a western Scientist took up the research on “Chaban Thaba”, we will appreciate it and feel more important. However, as of now no such research has been conducted, therefore, our traditional practices are seemed to be obsolete.

With our modern knowledge on various Sciences and Technologies and fast information/communications facilities, we are more informed than our forefathers. We knew that the ways of making medicines/foods by our ancestor are very primitive, but the duty of our modern generation is to make it more scientific and effective. This is what many of the western multinational pharmaceutical and nutraceutical companies are doing. It is easier for us (21st Century Homo-Sapiens) to identify between the positive and negative sides of our traditional practices. However, a petty looking traditional ritual/practice may sometime become a breakthrough scientific product. We can term it as “scientific understanding of our traditional knowledge’s”. Some of the examples of Manipuri’s food items, which are regarded as ultra nutritious and proven by moderns scientific researchers are the Black Rice (Chahao), Yongchak, Ngari, Soibum/Soijin, Hawaichar etc.

On the other hand, the famous dance of Manipuri Ras Lila was the amalgamations of Maibi Jagoi and story of Krishna. During “Laiharaoba”, the rhythmic dances of Maibis and the sequential depictions of human developments from “Embryo”, is something unique to undertake researches upon. The hymns of the Maibis and Pena Yakairol definitely must have certain acoustics impacts on the human physiological, psychological and nervous systems. But our ignorance is making it looked like an ordinary murmuring by some eunuch! If it were in Japan, the whole world by now will be enjoying the Pena Yakairol and Maibi Laimang Famba as something extraordinary acoustic therapy.

The values of our traditional rituals and practices come from thousands of years of experiences. Some of the practices are locally proven but many of them are yet to be researched or exploited for beneficial purposes. The modernizations of our traditions and cultures are at the hands of the new generations. Again taking the example of Japan, it can be mentioned here that their traditional practices are not 100% foolproof, there are many Japanese Cults still practicing hazardous rituals. But the endpoint is that Japanese are famous for preserving or conserving their traditions and cultures. How about we Manipuri?

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2014/07/a-glimpse-on-manipuri-amaibas-and-amaibis/

Manipur Students Shine in Science Olympiads Awards 2013-14

“WORLD’S LARGEST INTERNATIONAL OLYMPIAD AWARDS” 7 Students from Maniur got various State Ranks. Imphal, 4th July 2014: Science Olympiad Foundation (SOF) recently organized its International Award ceremony to felicitate International winning students, teachers

“WORLD’S LARGEST INTERNATIONAL OLYMPIAD AWARDS”

7 Students from Maniur got various State Ranks.

Imphal, 4th July 2014: Science Olympiad Foundation (SOF) recently organized its International Award ceremony to felicitate International winning students, teachers and principals of Olympiad exams for the Academic year 2013-14. The British Council and BBC Knowledge are associated with SOF for the Olympiads since its inception.

Seven students of Imphal made their parents proud by garnering State Ranks in the Olympiad Awards held recently in Delhi. Two students got State rank 1, these are Patel Lairenjam from Class 6^th of Little Flower School and Saikhom Amarjit Singh from Class 8^th of Tiny Tots’ Unique School, in International Mathematics Olympiad and National Science Olympiad, respectively. The student who got state Rank 2 is- Asish Naorem From Class 12^th of Comet School, in International English Olympiad. Following with State Rank 3 are Geetapriya khwairakpam from Class 8^th of The Frobel English School and Ningthoujam Rakesh Singh from Class 12^th of International English Olympiad; Laishram Yangba from Class 1^st of The Antartic English School and Ahanthem vivek Singh from Class 11^th of Herbert School, in International Mathematics Olympiad

The function started with the lighting of the lamp at The Chinmaya Mission Auditorium in Delhi by the Chief GuestJustice Mr. Dipak Misra, Judge Supreme Court of India. Guests of Honor Prof. YS Rajan, Chairman NIT Manipur, Mr. Richard Everett– Director Education, British Council India and Mrs. Suprama Misra also recorded their presence. The winners & guests later sought blessings of Acharaya Chinmaya Mission, Swami Nikhilananda Saraswati.

The function started with the lighting of the lamp at The Chinmaya Mission Auditorium in Delhi by the Chief GuestJustice Mr. Dipak Misra, Judge Supreme Court of India. Guests of Honor Prof. Y S Rajan, Chairman NIT Manipur, Mr. Richard Everett, Director Education, British Council India and Mrs. Suprama Misra also recorded their presence. The winners & guests later sought blessings of Acharaya Chinmaya Mission, Swami Nikhilananda Saraswati.

Mr. Mahabir Singh, Founder & Executive Director, SOF shared that over 27000 schools from 1360 cities across India and 16 countries participated in the Olympiad exams during 2013-14 and millions of students appeared in the Olympiads.

The awardees included:

47 International Rank One holders and they were awarded Rs 50,000, a gold medal, certificate and gifts worth Rs 1000/ each.

47 International Rank Two holders who won Rs 25000/ a silver medal, certificate and gifts worth Rs 1000/ each and

47 International Rank Three holders won Rs 10000/ a bronze medal, certificate and gifts worth Rs 1000/ each.

The top 10 principals and top 40 teachers, whose students put up an excellent performance at international level, were also felicitated with cash awards, mementos & citations.

About 24000 students from 3350 schools have been awarded for achieving top state level ranks. Close to 4,60,000 students have been awarded “Medals of Excellence”, for achieving top ranks in their respective schools.

About Science Olympiad Foundation

SOF aims to identify, motivate and reward talent and performance – at the International level, State level and also School level. It attempts to develop a spirit of competitiveness among students and to prepare them to face competition beyond their school level. Each participating student’s performance is analyzed and a school, city, state and international rank awarded, to enable the student know her/his level of preparedness and readiness to face competition. Each student’s performance analysis report including areas of strengths and weaknesses are also provided. SOF conducts four Olympiad exams including: National Cyber Olympiad (NCO); National Science Olympiad (NSO); International Mathematics Olympiad (IMO) and International English Olympiad (IEO).

23rd NAMA Convention Held at San Francisco

23rd Annual NAMA Convention 4th & 5th July, San Francisco Bay Area was a great success. This is the first time the Convention is being held in the West Coast.

23rd Annual NAMA Convention 4th & 5th July, San Francisco Bay Area was a great success. This is the first time the Convention is being held in the West Coast. More than 40 family and individual members participated in the event. Source: NAMA Support Team

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2014/07/23rd-nama-convention-held-at-san-francisco/

KIM’s rally evoking justice against‘war crimes’ draw mass participation

IMPHAL, July 4: The Kuki Inpi Manipur today organised a series of rallies demanding justice from the Government of India to “the 905 innocent Kukis killed by the National Socialist

IMPHAL, July 4: The Kuki Inpi Manipur today organised a series of rallies demanding justice from the Government of India to “the 905 innocent Kukis killed by the National Socialist Council of Nagalim (Isac-Muivah) during the ethnic clash 18 years ago. A memorandum was submitted to the Prime Minister through the Governor and the Chief Minister, and through the District Commissioners at eight different places throughout the State. The rally is not against any particular community or UG group; rather it is against the indifference of the Government of India to the plight of the Kukis, who have survived the NSCN – IM’s crime, said Thangsei Haokip general secretary of KIM at the sidelines of the rally in Imphal today. He continued that 61 memorandums have been submitted to the Government of India, but there has been no response so far. KIM’s demands include immediate appraisal of the plight of the victimised Kukis, and the Government of India must first examine the war crimes of the NSCN-IM in a proper law court of the country before any agreement is arrived at between the central government and the NSCN-IM, said Thangsei. If ever an agreement is arrived between the Government of India and the NSCN – IM before Kukis are given their long due justice, there could be civil unrest in the northeast of India, Thangsei cautioned. He alleged that the Government of India had remained as a mute spectator when the NSCN-IM allegedly murdered 905 innocent Kukis, including children, women and the old aged and also uprooted 360 villages to snatch away the lands and displaced 100,000 Kuki people who are still unable to go back to their own villages. The memorandum also included 24 pictures of NSCN-IM’s genocidal act on the Kuki people. Around 2200 people gathered at the THAU Ground and took out the procession in the city. Around 4500 people participated in the rally at Kangpokpi. At Saikul about 5000 came out to take part in the meeting and the procession while more than 3000 rallied from Mongneljang to Yaingangpokpi in Ukhrul district. Rally was also taken out at Moreh and Tengnoupal with participation of 4500 and 6000 people respectively, according to the data provided by the organisers. In the Saikul area under Senapati district, the president Kuki Inpi Saikul block Thangkam Lupheng said “we are demanding justice for those innocent Kuki people who were targeted by NSCN (IM). If the Government of India treats Kuki people as their own citizen, it is appealed to the present NDA government that justice must be done, as the issue was raised when the NDA was in power last.” He further said that until and unless the problem of innocent Kuki people killed and displaced from their native village are not addressed, there cannot be any solution to the Naga issue. Jiribam correspondent adds: The Kuki Inpdi Manipur, Jiribam and Kuki Students’ Organisation (KSO), taken out a peace rally at Jiribam sub-division. The rally was in response to the call of the Kuki Inpi Manipur (KIM) to hold a peaceful protest rally to air grievances over the indifferent attitude of India towards the plight of the Kukis who had endured the criminal and genocidal acts of the NSCN-IM in 1990s. The rally which started from Phaitol village, Tousem sub-division was foiled by the Gularthon by the Jiribam police from further proceeding citing Crpc 144 imposed in the district. Later, the demonstrators submitted a memorandum to the ADC addressing the Prime Minister of India. During the rally the demonstrators displayed placards saying, “We demand immediate settlement of victimised Indian Kukis before any agreement is arrived with NSCN-IM”, “We do not opposed Naga solution, but our case must be settle first”, “No fencing in the middle of independent hills country, are Kukis not citizen of India”.

Ivalley Talks 2014 – Inspiration plus Ideas!

Ivalley Talks – Looking for Inspiration and Ideas What is Ivalley? Ivalley is a youth oriented forum which aims to contribute to the youths and humanity by providing chance to

Ivalley Talks – Looking for Inspiration and Ideas

What is Ivalley?

Ivalley is a youth oriented forum which aims to contribute to the youths and humanity by providing chance to be inspired and keep the fire of hope lit. Inspiration and Ideas are the founding pillars of Ivalley. Its main objective is to provide a platform to new ideas and concepts and share it with the global audience through various social media. Ivalley hopes to reach out a helping hand to new ideas and stories through its platform by recognizing talent and promoting them in the social media. Ivalley not only aims to inpire but also to aspires to help in guiding the youth and soceity towards a better future.

Concept and Vision

At times, the heart does things for reasons which reason cannot understand. And the “I” in every person carefully crafts to intertwine ideas which inspire the rationale and our heart’s desires to form the sublimed Individual. From the common man to a terrorist, the truth is always different for what is true to you could be not true to another. But on another level, both the common man and the terrorist have an idea of their own truth. Adolf Hitler was a man who believed in his idea of truth whereby truth to him was love and pride for the Germans and to create a Utopia. Even though his methodology was harsh, he had followers because he had an idea so great which inspired many Germans. So what is an Idea? A concept, thought, opinion, theory; intention, plan, goal; impression; vague supposition. . . From the smallest ones of an idea of a child to steal a cookie to big ones of suppose, creating a piece of art, the idea of the child stealing the cookie may be in such an unequaled unrivaled manner which inspires. Ivalley talk is a platform which will provide the child a chance to share.

What is Ivalley talks?

Ivalley talks is an independently organized talk event . The goal of the event is to bring together bright minds to give talks that are Idea-focused, and on a wide range of subjects ,to foster learning , inspiration and wonder- and provoke conversation that matters. This event will be host twice annually throughout Northeast , to spread ideas of Northeast around the Globe. Its a long-term project please join us in this visionary Project.

Ivalley Talk 2014

SPEAKERS of Ivalley talks 2014:

1. Kishalay Bhattercharjee – journalist,author, trainer.

2. Kamesh Salam – founder South Asian bamboo Foundation.

3. Robert Naorem – Celebrity Stylist &Designer.

4. Dr. Shantikumar meetei – Mr.World 2013(INBA).

5. Niranjan Lairenjam – Social Entrepreneur.

6. Guru Rewben – Folk singer.

7. Limaben Jamir – Initiator NEI Model United Nations.

8. Photography exhibition by “Manipur Photography club”

Also featuring ‘The Koi” the upcoming band of Manipur.

Date & Time: 11 A.M 12 July 2014.

Venue: Sangai Hall , Hotel Imphal.

Entry through Registration.

Rs.150 only/

Refreshments will be Provided.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2014/07/ivalley-talks-2014-inspiration-plus-ideas/

Peace and harmony cornerstones of progress: Chief Minister

IMPHAL, June 30: The Tribal Peace and Harmony Award Distribution ceremony was held today at the Manipur Film Development Corporation auditorium, Konung Mamang. The distribution ceremony was organised by Tribal

IMPHAL, June 30: The Tribal Peace and Harmony Award Distribution ceremony was held today at the Manipur Film Development Corporation auditorium, Konung Mamang.

The distribution ceremony was organised by Tribal Peace and Harmony Award Committee 2013-2014 under the aegis of the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, Government of India and Tribal Research Institute, Manipur.

The instituted awards will occupy an annual event in the TRI calendar to encourage both the young and old alike to be torch bearers and messenger of peace.

Chief Minister, O Ibobi Singh attended the function as the chief guest while deputy Chief Minister, Gaikhangam presided over the function.

Speaking at the function, the State Chief Minister said that peace and harmony acts as the main cornerstone of progress in any society.

The institution of the award by taking cognizance of the sacrifices of noble people in safeguarding the lives of their fellow citizens at the height of communal discord is commendable, the Chief Minister observed.

He wished for the award to encourage similar initiatives and actions from the people of the State in the years to come and help in strengthening the harmonious co-existence of the different communities.

In appreciation and acknowledgement of the noble endeavour and achievement towards a peaceful and harmonious co-existence between communities, the award was conferred to K Matia, pastor Mozhu Prayer Centre Senapati, Manipur, for her initiative and achievement in securing the release of a mother-daughter duo from captivity of underground elements during the Naga-Kuki conflict, (Late) Henkholen Sitlhou, founder principal, Presidency College, Motbung, Sardar Hills, Senapati for bringing tribal awareness through education and peace initiative and rescue of a Naga girl student from underground elements abducted from the college campus during the Kuki-Naga Conflict and Reverend S K Hokey, former general secretary, Manipur Baptist Convention for peace initiation through organising joint prayer meetings at different places where the warring ethnic communities live side by side.

WW II soldiers remembered during 70th anniversary of Battle of Imphal

IMPHAL, June 27: Governor VK Duggal today led a host of other imminent officials including Commonwealth War Grave Commission Barry Murphy, First Secretary (Defences), Australian High Commissioner to India Jane Spicer, Military Attache Embassy of United States Colonel Larry J Redmon and British Deputy High Commissioner to India Scott Furssedonn Wood in offering floral tribute to the heroes who sacrificed their lives during the 1944 World War II Battle of Inphal, today.

Floral tributes were paid at both the Imphal Indian War Cemetry, Hatta and Imphal War Cemetry, Dewlahland in connection with the 70th anniversary of the Battle of Imphal.

The dignitaries were also accompanied by State deputy Chief Minister Gaikhangam and major general BM Bali, GOC, 57th Mountain Division.

Hugo Slim, grandson of field marshal William Slim, commander of the British 14th Army during the war was also present during the ceremony.

Soldiers of the Bihar Regiment gave salute during the ceremony.

Speaking at the function during the two memorial service, director, Commonwealth War Grave Commission Barry Murphy said that there are around 153 cemeteries maintained around the world, however, the two in Manipur are quiet unique.

He said the graveyards are to educate the future generations about the WWII.

The names of the heroes who lost their lives in the battle of Imphal are important and not mere memorial stones, he said while thanking the government for maintaining the cemetery with excellence.

Organising Committee member Yumnam Rajeshwor said that with the support of Manipur Government, 2nd World War Imphal Campaign Foundation and Manipur Tourism Forum the 70th Anniversary Battle of Imphal was kicked off on March 23 of this year.

Throughout India, 62666 commonwealth soldiers and non commonwealth soldiers are remembered at various cemeteries and memorial sites, he said.

In the two cemeteries in Imphal, 3299 soldiers are commemorated, however the maximum number of soldiers who died in Imphal are commemorated at the Rangoon memorial, he said.

In both cemeteries of Imphal 3299 soldiers are commemorates but much more soldiers who died in Imphal are commemorated at the Rangoon Memorial. Unfortunately not many of these soldiers have the known graves, he said.

Jane Spicer, the First Secretary (Defence), Australian High Commission to India also shared the memories of Australian solders’ contribution in the World War II.

Military Attache, Embassy of United States Col. Larry J Redmon said that the epic battle and those who contributed their soul for their services are not to be forgotten.

Scott Furssedonn Wood the British Deputy High Commissioner to India said that in the months of March to July of 1944 World War II lots of soldiers died and 17 and half thousands became causalities.

He also said that the British government awarded gallantry awards and five Victoria Crosses to soldiers who sacrificed in the battle.

The importance of the observation is to remember them in front of their graveyard and today is the finenest day because it is the 70th year of the battle, he added.

Deputy CM of Manipur Gaikhangam said that his state likes to pay respect to the all the soldiers of different nationalities who were buried in these cemeteries.

They had come from different parts of the world during the Second World War and fell down fighting in Manipur, he said.

He also said that his government is highly pleased to work with the Commonwealth War Graves Commission.

Governor of Manipur VK Duggal said, “We have gathered here today to remember and pay our homage to those who died in the Manipur theatre of the Second World War.”

“Both sides lost heavily and thousands were killed during those few months in what is recorded as the biggest land battle of the Second World War in Imphal.”

He said while a numbers of the soldiers were interred and their names etched in the cemetery, a large number were neither remembered nor properly buried or cremated.

We are praying today for those who laid down their life far away from their homes in these places, which most of them never knew exist before they were sent here for the battle he said.

He further said that several countries made the supreme sacrifice here and he compliment the distinguished representatives from various countries whose citizen had died here for the trouble they have taken to take part in the memorial service and 70th years back the country people have not forgotten them.

There is no victory at war in the true sense, as both sides suffer tremendous losses and the loss is not only in the terms of human life but also in terms of damages to environment and disruption of political, social, culture and economics systems he added.