Photo News – Page 2 – Manipur News

Manipur Sangai Festival 2015: Day 4

Photos by: Deepak Shijagurumayum

Photos by: Deepak Shijagurumayum

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/11/manipur-sangai-festival-2015-day-4/

Tetseo Sisters performing live at Manipur Sangai Festival 2015 – Day 2

Photo By: Rajkumar Napolean

Photo By: Rajkumar Napolean

Manipur Sangai Festival 2015 – Inaugural Day Images

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/11/manipur-sangai-festival-2015-inaugural-day-images/

Ningol Chakouba: An important chapter in the story of every women of Manipur

Like every year, this year’s Ningol Chakouba was beautifully celebrated mostly everywhere in Manipur on November 13

Like every year, this year’s Ningol Chakouba was beautifully celebrated mostly everywhere in Manipur on November 13

Photo: Munindrajit Aribam

Photo: Munindrajit Aribam

Photo: Munindrajit Aribam

Photo: Munindrajit Aribam

NEFIS observes collective hunger strike across the country to mark 15 years of Irom Sharmila’s heroic struggle

PRESS RELEASE Pan-India sit-in protest and hunger strike against Armed Forces Special Powers Act. NEFIS receives huge support for the 12-hour hunger strike across the country. North-East Forum for International

PRESS RELEASE

Pan-India sit-in protest and hunger strike against Armed Forces Special Powers Act.

NEFIS receives huge support for the 12-hour hunger strike across the country.

North-East Forum for International Solidarity (NEFIS), in discussion with Irom Sharmila, organized twelve-hour hunger strikes and collective sit-ins at various places of the country to mark the 15^th year of her heroic struggle against Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA), yesterday on 2^nd of November. It is to be noted that on 2^nd November 2000 a terrible tragedy shook the state of Manipur when 10 civilians were shot dead by paramilitary forces at a local bus-stop in Malom, Manipur. Among the deceased was an 18-year old National Bravery Award winner. The massacre triggered angry protests across Manipur and led to Irom Sharmila going on her epic fast a few days later. Justice, however, continues to be denied in the case of the Malom massacre and many other such cases. Meanwhile, Irom Sharmila continues to be heckled by cases filed against her and periodic arrests. NEFIS has hence pledged to take forward the nation-wide struggle against the draconian and anti-people Armed Forces Special Powers Act.

NEFIS Units successfully organized the twelve-hour hunger strike across various cities, among which were Delhi, Gwalior, Bangalore, Chandigarh, Kokrajhar (Assam), etc. In Delhi, the sit-in protest along with the hunger strike was organized at Jantar Mantar where large numbers of NEFIS members, North East students, as well as representatives from various progressive and democratic organizations collected to condemn the enforcement of the long abused Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA). Eminent Human Rights Activist, Babloo Loitongbam and Women Rights Activist Maya John, ensured their presence to extend their solidarity to the hunger strike/collective sit-in. Babloo Loithongbam highlighted the dastardly way in which Indian State continues to justify AFSPA and force-feed Irom Sharmila citing reasons of prevention of suicide. Maya John termed AFSPA a draconian law which serves just as a ploy to curb the democratic rights of people in so-called ‘Disturbed’ regions without any compunctions or fear of being implicated in a judicial probe. The hunger strike and sit-in in Chandigarh, was organized at Student Centre of Panjab University. This was followed by a huge rally around the campus. In Assam, hunger strike was organized at Kokrajhar and Karbi Anglong, which was attended by massive number of students representing different communities. Professors of various colleges too showed their support by being present at the venues. The students called for a collective struggle against this draconian law. The North East students and activists of NEFIS organized hunger strike at Gwalior, which saw a large presence of students from other parts of India, supporting the struggle against AFSPA. At various other places across India too, the activists of NEFIS and students organized hunger strikes and observed 15^th year of Irom Sharmila’s struggle in various forms.

It should be noted that AFSPA has been enforced in parts of Jammu and Kashmir, as well as in the North East states where it is serving as a useful weapon for the Indian State to curb the democratic rights and freedom of the people of these regions. Under the draconian provisions of AFSPA the government’s judgment on why an area is found to be ‘disturbed’ is not subject to judicial review. Similarly, there can be no prosecution, suit or any other legal proceeding against anyone acting under this law, except with the sanction of the Central Government. Moreover, this controversial law provides dangerous impunity to the armed forces for detaining, using lethal force and entering and searching premises without warrant. Since armed soldiers trained in combat and in war have no training in civilian law or policing procedures, atrocities under AFSPA are inevitable and are growing. Hence, NEFIS demands that AFSPA should be repealed at the earliest from all states, thereby ending the miseries of the people.

AFSPA has been condemned nationally and internationally by all democratic and justice loving people. Even certain government-appointed commissions (including the recent Justice Verma Committee) and human rights organizations have pressed for the withdrawal of the Act. The continued enforcement of the Act has ensured continued protests. This is why NEFIS’ call for a hunger strike on 2^nd November elicited a phenomenal response. At its sit-in protests and hunger strike across the country, NEFIS called upon all the different communities of the North East, as well as people across the country to raise a unified struggle against AFSPA.

Eight more birds from India added to IUCN Red List

A clear indicator of threat to bird habitats like grasslands and wetlands MUMBAI, October 31: Year after year, the condition of birds, which are one of the most obvious indicators

A clear indicator of threat to bird habitats like grasslands and wetlands

Steppe Eagle (Photo: Siddhesh Surve)

MUMBAI, October 31: Year after year, the condition of birds, which are one of the most obvious indicators of the state of the natural environment, is deteriorating further, due to factors like habitat destruction and unsustainable development over the last couple of decades. The latest Red List of birds released by International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) for 2015 shows that a total of 180 bird species in India are now threatened, as against 173 last year. Only one species has moved out of the Red List. The latest additions to the list, which are based on studies conducted by Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS-India), BirdLife International (UK-based) and other partner organizations, reveal that bird habitats like grasslands and wetlands are under threat.

Species added to Red List

Among the eight species newly added to the Red List, five have been uplisted (a sign of increased threat) from Least Concerned to Near Threatened category. These include Northern Lapwing (a grassland bird) and four wetland birds, viz. Red Knot, Curlew Sandpiper, Eurasian Oystercatcher and Bar-Tailed Godwit. Two other wetland birds, viz. Horned Grebe and Common Pochard have been uplisted from Least Concerned to Vulnerable. Steppe Eagle (a raptor from grasslands), which is a regular winter visitor to the Indian subcontinent, has been uplisted from Least Concerned to Endangered. In this bunch of negative news, there is a little positive news that the passage migrant – European Roller – has been downlisted (a sign of decreased threat) from Near Threatened to Least Concerned. In 2014, the story was similar with eight new species added to the Red List, viz. Woolly-necked Stork, Andaman Teal, Andaman Green Pigeon, Ashy-headed Green Pigeon, Red-headed Falcon, Himalayan Griffon, Bearded Vulture and Yunnan Nuthatch.

Dr Deepak Apte, Director BNHS, said “The list of threatened species keeps on increasing with every assessment. That itself symbolizes that our efforts for conservation of species are not adequate. We need to logically rethink the developmental agenda, especially for the habitats and areas where these species exist. Some of the neglected habitats should therefore be a part of protected areas or marked as ecologically sensitive sites.”

Habitat loss and other threats

Birds face a range of threats in today’s times, among which habitat loss is common to most species in the Red List. Grasslands, wetlands, forests and other habitats are getting destroyed at an alarming rate, primarily due to unsustainable developmental activities. For instance, Red Knot, which is usually found in coastal areas, mudflats and sandy beaches, is facing several threats like destruction of coastal ecosystems, land reclamation, pollution, over-exploitation of its main prey – shellfish – and illegal hunting. Similarly, Great Knot is threatened by degradation and loss of wetland habitat. Another wetland bird – Curlew Sandpiper – is under threat due to factors like reservoir and marshland alteration by commercial salt works, habitat degradation because of diminishing rainfall and hunting, particularly along the south-east coast of India near Point Calimere.

Apart from loss of grassland habitat, the other reason for decline of Steppe Eagle, which mostly scavenges on animal carcasses, is the use of veterinary diclofenac that causes renal failure in these birds, as revealed from the research conducted by BNHS and other partner organisations.

Moreover, just like the Steppe Eagle, older BNHS studies had revealed that three vulture species, viz. White-backed, Slender-billed and Long-billed have been severely affected by veterinary diclofenac. Subsequent research had also highlighted the diclofenac threat to Red-headed and Egyptian Vulture. The status of vultures in India continues to be precarious, even as efforts are on at various levels (with active BNHS participation) to conserve them, such as captive breeding, carcass surveys, advocacy, ban on veterinary diclofenac, reduction in vial size of human diclofenac and identification of vulture safe zones for future release of captive birds.

Global trend

Worldwide, 40 more bird species have now been included in the Red List. These include many wading shore birds, those from other habitats, six out of 11 vulture species in Africa and other iconic species like Atlantic Puffin, European Turtle-dove and Helmeted Hornbill. On a positive note, 23 species have been downlisted to lower threat categories. In some cases, this reflects a better understanding of how they are faring, while in others this reflects recoveries as a result of conservation action, including Seychelles Warbler and Chatham Petrel.

Commenting on the vulture decline in Africa, Dr Julius Arinaitwe, BirdLife International’s Africa Programme Director said, “As well as robbing the African skies of one of their most iconic and spectacular groups of birds, the rapid decline of the continent’s vultures has profound consequences for its people – as vultures help stop the spread of diseases by cleaning up rotting carcasses. However, now we are becoming aware of the sheer scale of the declines involved, there is still just enough time for conservationists to work with law-makers and local people, to make sure there is a future for these magnificent scavengers.”

Curlew Sandpiper (Photo: Parveen Shaikh)

Common Poachard (Photo: Nandkishore Dudhe)

Greater Knot (Photo: Parveen Shaikh)

North East sings a song and takes Delhi along

New Delhi, 19 October 2015: The capital city of New Delhi came alive with the beautiful colours of the Northeast region of India over the past three days, as the

New Delhi, 19 October 2015: The capital city of New Delhi came alive with the beautiful colours of the Northeast region of India over the past three days, as the North East Festival was held at IGNCA from 16^th to 18^th October, 2015. The 3^rdedition of the festival, which was bigger and better than before with some special additions, saw a footfall of over 3 lakh people, who thronged the festival for a first-hand experience the very best that the North East has to offer.

Apart from showcasing the entire gamut of North East’s culture, cuisines, handicrafts, music et al, promoting and boosting tourism in region was the key focus of this year’s edition of the North East Festival. Special sessions with high level dignitaries were also held to discuss the strategic importance of the North East region and the Look East Policy.

The “North East Festival”, has become a brand which is synonymous with the unification of the various stakeholders of North East under one dynamic platform. North East Festival is organised by the reputed socio-cultural trust, Trend MMS, in association with IGNCA.

Mr Arvind Kerjriwal, CM Of Delhi appreciated the initiative of North East Festival and promised support for the extensive marketing throughout Delhi to promote the concept. He assured the North East community people in Delhi full security and support.

During all the 3 days of the Northeast Festival, cultural events, folk dance forms put on a spectacular show all through the festival. Delectable cuisines from the entire region drew visitors from and outside North East. Music, dance, fashion, food, exhibition of art, photography, cartoon,traditional sports, film, discussions and much more was at display in the three day Festival. With support of Delhi Tourism many foreign tourists came to visit North East Festival and taken part in various activities. Around 50 artisans/weavers/textile entrepreneur of NER showcased their unique designs and participated in Buyers Sellers interaction.

Few serious discussion sessions were organized. One on Potential for Food Processing sector in the NER was organized by FINER with support from MoFPI, Govt of India, One session on Tourism B2B wherein tour operators, hoteliers, top officials of Govt, Ad flim makers from Mumbai etc interacted with North East Stakeholders. One session on design improvement of the textile weavers were organized and a B2B session on textiles were also organized. A seminar on India’s Strategic importance and Act East Policy was attended by Mr. Ram Madhav, Mr. Ravi Capoor, JS, Ministry of Commerce, Mr. AM Singh, JS, DoNER, top intellectuals of the region, North East leaders.

The festival saw an unprecedented line-up of established and upcoming talents music, culture and fashion. Around 40 bands performed, and the top designers and gen-next designers from North East showcased their creations. Painting, Photography, Cartoon Exhibition, Live sketch, handloom-handicrafts of the region proved to be great draw among the audience.

Musicians took centrestage in the evenings with some amazing performances – Zubeen Garg, ?Lou Majaw, Boomarang, Purple Fusion, Abiogenesis, Traffic Jam, SKD, ?Parikrama,The Local Train, Girish & The Chronicles?,?Anaya Brahma, et al enthralled crowds.

Dazzling fashion shows saw models walk the ramp in stunning outfits from the region, around 20 designers participated in the show.

The last day of the evening was dedicated to Majuli and a short audio visual presentation showcased Majuli’s heritage, resources and the growing concerns of erosion. Singer Zubeen Garg while presenting spoke about the need of national media attention to protect Majuli.

North East Festival Football Competition was organized at Jawharlal Nehru Stadium wherein top football team of North East participated with well known colleges of NCR. Venketaswara College became eventual Champion beating Hornbill Club.

Speaking about this year’s edition, Shyamkanu Mahanta, Organiser in Chief, North East Festival informed that this year North East Festival’s focus of handicraft and tourism. Extensive coverage in national media would help in creating positive perception for the region. Substantial Delhi population came and appreciated the various facets of NER and we have made some progress in building bridges.

More Images:

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/10/north-east-sings-a-song-and-takes-delhi-along/

Photos of ‘UFO sightings’ in Manipur goes viral

We have heard of many Unidentied flying objects (UFOs) stories and sightings for decades now. The often buzzing of our world by extraterrestrials in the form of flying saucers or

UFO sightings in Manipur

We have heard of many Unidentied flying objects (UFOs) stories and sightings for decades now. The often buzzing of our world by extraterrestrials in the form of flying saucers or alien visitors seems to have become a part of our culture, that they purportedly share the friendly skies with us.

In an astonishing UFOs sighting, A man named Lincoln Liba have claimed that a group of boys from a nearby students hostel located at Mantripukhri Colony in Manipur’s capital city Imphal saw and took several images footage of a strange transparent circular object hovering over the neighbourhood on Wednesday’s afternoon, reported IB Times

The photographs of this mysterious large disc-shape UFO were then uploaded on social media. Interestingly, the round, see-through object is seen just above the residential buildings. One of the pictures even has a rainbow in the backdrop. It appears to be a genuine photo and not photoshopped as a person is seen pointing at the object in one of the photographs.

Source: Sevendiary

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/10/photos-of-ufo-sightings-in-manipur-goes-viral/

Phoomdi – a blessing or misfortune for Loktak

By Dr. Maibam Dhanaraj Meitei (E-mail: rajjhcu@yahoo.in) Last century showed a remarkable loss in the area of Manipur’s central valley wetlands at an unpredicted high rate. Increase in indenting inhabitation,

Phoomdi removal from Loktak

By Dr. Maibam Dhanaraj Meitei (E-mail: rajjhcu@yahoo.in)

Last century showed a remarkable loss in the area of Manipur’s central valley wetlands at an unpredicted high rate. Increase in indenting inhabitation, nutrient enrichment, construction inside the wetland, deterioration of water quality, microbial and heavy metal pollution, loss of biodiversity, high rate of siltation and garbage dumping is the present scenario of various wetlands of Manipur, including Loktak.

Population explosion and almost negligible increase in the net cultivated area led to tremendous rise in fertilizer usage throughout the Manipur river basin. Runoffs from agricultural fields find an easy way to Loktak and contribute significantly in the pollution of the wetland. Nutrient inflow to the wetland from the use of fertilizer is estimated between 100 to 200 kg ha^-1. Imphal city alone accounts for 40% of the urban population of the basin, and generates nearly 126 metric tons of wastes/day, of which 40% remains untreated. In addition, loss of vegetation cover in the catchment hills due to jhum cultivation and construction of barrage upstream, particularly Ithai barrage have grieved the ecological condition. Constitution of Loktak Multipurpose Project for hydel and irrigation converted Loktak, a natural wetland with fluctuating water level into a reservoir with more or less constant water level. Of the 36 streams flowing into Loktak, Nambul river is infamous for its contribution in the wetland ecosystem degradation by loading nutrients and heavy metals in huge quantity. The consequences are loss of biodiversity, weed infestation, decreased fish production and proliferation of phoomdi.

Enormous growth of phoomdi has severe impact on the wetland ecosystem processes and functions. Phoomdi float mostly in suspended state and displaces water due to buoyancy. This affects the elevation-area-storage capacity relationship. The observed volume of water displaced by 1 cum of phoomdi is 0.75 cum of water and phoomdi occupies near to 107 km² of the wetland surface. At present an estimated 45.96 Mcum of water is displaced by phoomdi. Therefore, increased phoomdi area will reduce the storage capacity of the wetland and eventually affect the water resources and wetland environment. The vast area of wetland covered by phoomdi (107 km²) is responsible for heavy loss of water through evapotranspiration. It has been estimated that water loss due to evaporation from the open water area of 73.5 km² is 75.3 Mcum and the loss due to evapotranspiration from phoomdi covered area of 107 km² is 136.4 Mcum. Presence of phoomdi in the channels and the channel mouth chokes and interferes with the flow regime. This results in prolonged stagnation and impoundment in the upstream courses and is one of the causative factors for flooding. As the phoomdi floats around the year, decaying of phoomdi plants and sinking in the wetland bottom has increased the eutrophication level of Loktak.

Mentioned factors led to the inclusion of Loktak in “Montreux records” by Ramsar Convention in 1993 (48 Wetlands in the list, out of 2171 identified Ramsar sites – by January 2013), highlighting the prior attention to be accorded to restoration of the wetland ecosystem. Government of Manipur responded with the establishment of Loktak Development Authority (LDA) for overall improvement and management of the wetland. Objective of LDA lies in checking the deteriorating condition of Loktak and to bring about improvement of the wetland with development in the fields of fisheries, agriculture, tourism and afforestation in consultation with the concerned departments of the state government.

With the unmanaged phoomdi in Loktak considered as potent factors for ecological succession of the wetland from open water to marshes and swamps. Initially, management of Loktak was mainly focused on removal of phoomdi, desiltation and availability of water to ensure sufficient generation of power. The master plan submitted by Water and Power Consultancy Services (India) Ltd (WAPCOS), a Delhi based Government of India’s consultancy organization focused mainly on development of fisheries, tourism and agriculture etc, with the construction of a 126 km long dyke encircling the wetland, dredging of a major portion of the wetland bottom, a large number of sluice gates, culverts, bridges and canals etc. with the removal of phoomdi by mechanical approach. The measures have not taken into account the problem of eutrophication, metal and organics pollution which is a physiological ailment of the wetland. This cannot be cured without understanding the ecosystem dynamics of the wetland which the authorities have failed to realize as relevant in their programme. Loktak development authority and WAPCOS while aiming at the enhancement of economic utility of the wetland and its beautification have ignored the problems of ecological health of the wetland. Dredging is meaningless if there is no adequate arrangement for the disposal of dredge spoils. Likewise, in depth baseline data need to be gathered before the removal of the phoomdi cover from the wetland. They failed to acknowledge the role of the phoomdi in maintaining a healthy and safe freshwater environment for the locals and the region, and the implications that will be caused to the freshwater wetland after phoomdi removal.

Phoomdi are reported to have a comprehensive capacity for nutrients and heavy metals accumulation from the wetland water column. Assessment of nutrients concentrations by several researchers showed accumulation of 478.6 metric tons of nitrogen (N) and 39.6 metric tons of phosphorous (P) annually by the phoomdi in the northern zone of Loktak. Phoomdi in the central and southern zone were reported to accumulate 729.0 and 419.2 metric tons of N and 60.3 and 36.1 metric tons of P from the eutrophic water. It was reported that that the nutrient concentrations in 8 dominant macrophytes of the phoomdi varied from 1.0-1.8% to 0.071-0.148% for N and P, respectively. Salvinia natans, Zizania latifolia, Echinochloa stagnina, Phragmites karka and Hedychium coronarium accumulated 1.8, 1.6, 1.0, 1.0 and 0.94% N and 0.084, 0.075, 0.054, 0.073 and 0.071% P from the eutrophic water of Loktak. It revealed an important role of phoomdi in phytoextraction of nutrients from the natural freshwater of Loktak. Thus, phoomdi helps in the restoration of the particular environment by acting as biological sink.

In addition, phoomdi plays an important role in the socio economy and traditional life of the local inhabitants. As phoomdi represents an entity constituted by more than 128 species of plants, presence of edible, medicinal, fodder, fuel, house making materials and plants useful in making handicrafts etc. are reported. For example; Locals normally have their meal with a vegetable prepared from phoomdi edibles. Local dishes, viz. iromba, kangsoi, kangsu, shak, singju and utti, thus form an important part of the traditional meal. Collection of the wild edibles from phoomdi is mainly done by womenfolk of the local communities. Alocasia cucullata, Centella asiatica, Hedychium coronarium, Neptunia oleracea, Oenanthe javanica, and Polygonum barbatum are commonly consumed. Phoomdi of Loktak provides luxuriant fodder for domestic animals. As a common practice, animals, viz. cows, buffaloes and goats are let free to graze in the phoomdi. Preferred fodders for the animals include Echinochloa stagnina, Enhydra fluctuans, Imperata cylindrica, Oenanthe javanica, and Zizania latifolia. Pigs are fed with cooked rice or fresh vegetables, viz. Alocasia cucullata or Alternanthera philoxeroides. Culms of Arundo donax, Narenga porphyrocoma and Phragmites karka, and shoots of Scirpus lacustris are commonly used as fuel in local households. As a commercial item, handicrafts made from S. lacustris are in great demand. Phak or mats, made by the womenfolks are sold at the rate of Rs. 200-300 per item. Handicrafts made from kouna helps in shaping the economy of many households devoted to the industry.

Above all, fish are attracted by phoomdi for shade, shelter, food and feeding grounds. The artisanal fishers around the lake has long ago understood the concept and they deftly devised a fish aggregating and capture method using the phoomdi in the form of circular floating island – called athaphoom. Loktak represents the largest fishery resource of Manipur, accounting for more than 50% of its fish producing area and near to >35% of its harvest from Loktak coming from athaphoom fishery. More than 19,000 tons of fish was harvested form Loktak and adjoining lake of Manipur during 2010-11, with 39% of the harvest from athaphoom fishing. Keibul Lamjao National Park (KLNP), a unique floating wildlife reserve in the world is composed of a continuous mass of floating phoomdi. It is the only natural habitat of the endangered species of Elds deer, Rucervus eldi eldi McClelland, with a population of near to < 200 heads in 2000. Loktak with its several islands located inside the wetland and surrounded by floating phoomdi of different geometrical shapes makes it a unique destination for tourism.

Proper management of the wetland requires an adequate understanding of the structure and dynamics of the whole ecosystem of the wetland in accordance with the science of limnology and wetland studies in place of ad-hoc methods practiced today by the organizations involved in the development of Loktak. At the conceptual level, the approach should be three pronged; comprising of dynamic conservation, sustainable development and equitable access to benefits of conservation. Dynamic conservation refers to setting up various means of an effective alternative for attaining the ecosystem condition of the wetland as it existed many decades ago. Sustainable development refers to the form of development that caters the need of the present generation without compromising with the needs of the future generations from the wetland. Likewise, the third aspect concentrates on ensuring equitable access to the benefits of the development to be implemented through the participation of various institutions and the local communities.

Removal of the floating island – phoomdi from Loktak need to reconsider the aspects mentioned, otherwise it will lead to ecological imbalance, disturbed socio economy of locals and ecosystem of the faunal members depending on phoomdi. It is the high time for the people of Manipur to decide and vote on whether they want to see the floating phoomdi as a blessing or a misfortune for Loktak, and act accordingly for the protection of the rapidly degrading Ramsar site before it dies.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/09/phoomdi-a-blessing-or-misfortune-for-loktak/

MSAD: Irabot Day observance note making competition cum interaction

Delhi, Sept 16: MSAD PR Ref. No. 20150916, Dated 16 Sept 2015 Manipur Students’ Association Delhi is organising Irabot Day Observance Note Making Competition cum Interaction Programme. • The topic of

Delhi, Sept 16: MSAD PR Ref. No. 20150916, Dated 16 Sept 2015

Manipur Students’ Association Delhi is organising Irabot Day Observance Note Making Competition cum Interaction Programme.

Hijam Irabot (Courtesy: Manipur Archives) . The Irawat Celebration Committee, Manipur today organized the inaugural ceremony of the one month long observation of the 116th birth anniversary of Janeta Irawat at the Rupmahal Theatre, Imphal.

Lamyanba Hijam Irabot (Courtesy: Manipur Archives)

• The topic of the competition is: “Irabot and his revolutionary movement: Legacy and contemporary relevance”.
• The competition will be held on 30th September 2015 (Wednesday) at 1:00 p.m. at Faculty of Arts, Delhi University (North Campus)
• A 50 pages booklet will be issued to those who are interested to participate the note making competition. An 8 pages booklet is available here without any charge.
• The price of the 50 pages booklet along with the participation form is 30 rupees.
• Participants will be allowed to refer the booklet issued by MSAD in the competition.
• The word limit of the note making is 1000-1200 within 1 hour 30 minutes.
• Each participants have to submit one article on the same topic within 10 days. Both the note and article (2500 word limit) will be considered for the overall selection of best three winners.
• There will be interaction session for 3 hours after the competition.

For details please contact: 8376889477, 9717314803

Sd/-
Academic Committee, MSAD

Download form here: Irabot Day Observance Competition Form

THE PROTECTION OF MANIPUR PEOPLE BILL, 2015

Bill no. 16 of 2015 THE PROTECTION OF MANIPUR PEOPLE BILL, 2015 (As introduced in the Manipur Legislative Assembly on 28/08/2015) (Recommendations of the Governor of Manipur under

Bill no. 16 of 2015

THE PROTECTION OF MANIPUR PEOPLE BILL, 2015

(As introduced in the Manipur Legislative Assembly on 28/08/2015)

(Recommendations of the Governor of Manipur under clauses (1) and (3) of article 207 of the Constitution of India have been obtained)

Bill no. 16 of 2015

( As introduced in the Manipur Legislative Assembly )

THE PROTECTION OF MANIPUR PEOPLE BILL, 2015

BILL

to provide protection, maintenance of socio-economic and cultural balance of the Manipur People and for maintenance of peace and public order in the State of Manipur and regulation of entry into and exit from Manipur for Non Manipur persons and tenants in the interest of general and for matter connected therewith or incidental thereto.

BE it enacted by the Legislature of Manipur in the Sixty-sixth year of Republic of India as follow:

Short title, extent and commencement.

1. This Act may be called the protection of Manipur People Act, 2015
2. It shall extend to the whole State of Manipur.
3. It shall come into force on such date as the State Government may, by notification in the Official Gazette, appoint.

Definitions

2. In this Act, unless the context otherwise requires,-

(a) “Director” means the Director of Registration of Non Manipur Persons and Tenants, appointed under sub-section (2) of section 3 of this act;

(b) “Manipur people” means Persons of Manipur whose name are in the National Register of Citizens, 1951 Census Report 1951 and Village Directory of 1951 and their descendants who have contributed to the collective social, cultural and economic life of Manipur;

(c) “Non-Manipur person” means a person who is not covered by Clause (b) of Section 2, and who intends to visit the State of Manipur with a Pass issued under sub-section (4) of section 4;

(d) “owner” means a persons who owns land, building, hotel, motel or any other property in the State and includes a power of attorney holder or a person duly authorized to be in charge of the same.

(e) “Pass” means an authorized document issued by the Registration Authority under this Act;

(f) “prescribed” means as prescribed by rule made under this Act;

(g) “registration authority” means the registration authority for registration of Non-Manipur Persons designated under section (3) of section 4 of this Act;

(h) “State” means the State of Manipur;

(i) “State Government” means the State Government of Manipur; and

(j) “tenant” means a person to the State and who pays rent of hiring charges for temporary use and occupation of land, building, or other property and this definition shall continue this Act only.

Directorate of Registration of Non–Manipur Persons and Tenants

(1) For the purpose of this Act, the State Government shall establish a Directorate of Registration of Non Manipur Persons and Tenants consisting of a Director and as many officers and staff as it may consider necessary.

(2) An officer not below the rank of Class-1 Officer of the State Government shall be appointed as the Director by the State Government.

(3) The salaries and allowances and other conditions of the service of the Director, shall be as permissible under the relevant service rules and salaries and allowances of other officers and staff shall be such as prescribed by and the officials and officers of the Directorate shall be under the administrative control of the Home Department of the Government of Manipur, which shall open a special cell for the purpose.

(4) Every officer and staff of the Directorate of Registration of Non-Manipur Persons and Tenants shall be subordinate to the Director.

(5) The Director shall supervise the registration and issue of passes to the Non Manipur Persons and receipts to the owners hosting the tenants and shall have other administrative powers and functions as prescribed.

Registration of Non Manipur persons and establishment of registration centre

(1) At the commencement of this Act, every Non Manipur Person entering the State shall register himself with the registration authority designated under sub-section (3) of this section.

(2)For the purpose of sub-section (1), the State Government shall establish registration centres for Non Manipur Persons at such places as may be notified in the Official Gazette by the State Government from time to time.

(3) The State Government shall designate as many officers of the State Government as the registration authority at every registration centre for registering the Non Manipur Persons entering the state.

(4) The registration authority shall, if he is satisfied that the Non Manipur Person is a bonafied citizen of India, issue a Pass to the Non Manipur Person, in such form and in such manner as may be prescribed, specifying his place of origin and the period of stay which shall not be more than six months from the date of issue:

Provided that the period of stay may be extend from time to time by the Director:

Provided further that when a Non-Manipur person is denied to the issue of a Pass by the registration authority, he may make an application to the Director for redressal of his grievances and to enable such person to approach the Director for the purpose, a temporary Pass may be issued.

Explanation.- For the purposes of this section, a Non Manipur Person shall be deemed to be citizen of India on production of his voter’s identity card issued by the Election Commission of India or ration card issued by a competent authority or such other documents as may be prescribed.

(5) The registration authority shall maintain a register containing the passes issued to the Non Manipur Persons, shall submit a report of such registration to the Director.

Compulsory Registration of Non Manipur persons and tenants

Every owner who lets out accommodation to a Non Manipur Person shall maintain a register in such from as may be prescribed and enter the name and particulars of every Non Manipur Person as tenant, and particulars of such entries shall be submitted by the owner to the Director for every fortnight.

Issue of receipt to the owner

The Director shall enter the name and particulars of the Non Manipur Person furnished under section 5 by the owner in a register to be maintained in such form and in such manner as may be prescribed, and shall be issue a receipt to the owner in such form and in such manner as may be prescribed, to effect that the tenant has been registered by the owner of the premises.

Offence and penalty

Any owner who fails to furnish the names and particulars of the tenants to the Director within the period specified in section 5 shall be punishable with fine up to a minimum of two thousand rupees but not exceeding five thousand rupees.

Persons to be exempted

8. The provisions of this Act shall not apply to-

(a) the native people of the State of Manipur

(b) persons employed in connection with affairs of the Union Government, the State Government, Public Undertaking, and persons employed by a local authority or a body established by law with the approval of the state Government, high dignitaries, students of educational institutions situated in the state or such other persons may be determined by the State Government from time to time.

Explanation.- For the purpose of this section, production of a valid card issued by the concerned authority of the employee or the educational institution or such other documentary evidence for such employment or studentship.

Protection of action taken in good faith

No suit, prosecution or other legal proceedings shall lie against any officer of the State Government for anything which is in good faith done or intended to be done under this Act.

Power to make rules

10. (1) The State Government may, by notification in the Official Gazette, make rules to carry out the purpose of this Act.

(2) In particular and without prejudice to the generality of foregoing powers, such rule may provide for all or any of the following matters, namely,-

(a) the salaries and allowances and conditions of the service of the officers and staff under sub-section (3) of section 3;

(b) to establish registration centre for Non Manipur Person under sub-section (2) of section 4;

(d) form and manner of renewal of Pass issued under this Act under sub-section (4) of section 4;

(e) forms and manner of issue of the receipt to be issued to the owners under sections 6;

(f) form and manner of maintenance of the register under sub-section (5) of section 4 and section 6; and

(g) any other matter which is required to be, or may be prescribed.

(3) Every rule made under this Act shall be laid, as soon as may be after it is made, before the Manipur Legislative Assembly, while it is in session, for a total period of thirty days which may be comprised in one session or in two or more successive session, and if, before the expiry of the session immediately following the session of successive session aforesaid, the House agrees in making any modification in the rule or the House agrees that the rule should not be made, the rule shall, thereafter, have effect only in such modifies form or be of no effect, as the case may be, so however, that any such modification or annulment shall be without prejudice to the validity of anything previously done under that rule.

Power to remove difficulties

If any difficulty arises in giving effect to the previous of this Act, the State Government may, by order, make such provisions or give such directions not inconsistent with the provisions of this Act as may appear to it to be necessary or expedient for the removal of the difficulty.

Provided that no such power shall be exercised after the expiry of a period of two years from the commencement of this Act.

STATEMENTS OF OBJECTS AND REASON

Manipur is one of the hill States in the North-Eastern region of India. Manipur has a geographical area of 22,327 sq km which constitutes 0.7% of the total land surface of India. 90% of the total geographical area of the State, i.e. 20,089 sq km is covered by hills and the remaining area is a small valley covering only 2,238 sq km. According to 2011 Census, the population of the State is 28.56 lakhs approximately. The density of the population of Manipur as per 2011 Census was 128 per sq km against 103 per sq km in 2001 Census. The population growth rate of Manipur is found to be higher than that of India.

Before the merger of Manipur to India on 15-10-1949, the entry into Manipur was regulated by imposition of a permit system. That permit system was abolished w.e.f. 18-11-1950 by a notification issued by the then Chief Commissioner of Manipur. Since then, there is no restriction on the entry by the citizen of India. The increase in the population has caused a panic in the mind of the people of Manipur. Of late, a mass movement by the people of Manipur of losing their existence can be done away with a reasonable restriction in the influx of Non-Manipur people. Further, the Non-Manipur people who intended to stay in the State as tenants need to be regulated with certain reasonable restrictions.

It has become therefore, expedient to enact a law to maintain tranquility and police order in the interest of general public by registering the Non-Manipur people and the owners who provide accommodation to the tenants.

The Bill proposes to establish a Directorate for effective supervision to the implementation of the issue of Pass to the Non-Manipur people and issue of receipts to the owners hosting the tenants in the State of Manipur.

Hence the Bill.

Imphal Okram Ibobi

August, 2015

MEMORANDUM ON DELEGATION LEGISLATION

Sub-clause use (3) of Clause 1 of the Bill proposes to empower the State Government to appoint the date for coming into force of the proposed law.

Sub-clause (3) of Clause 3 of the Bill seeks to empower the State Government to prescribe the salaries, allowances and conditions of service of officers and staff of the Directorate of Registration of Non-Manipur persons and tenants.

Sub-clause (2) of Clause 4 of the Bill proposes to empower the State Government to determine places for establishment of the registration centres.

Sub-clause (3) of Clause 4 seeks to empower the State Government to designate as many officers of the State Government as the registration authority.

Sub-clause (4) of Clause 4 of the Bill seeks to empower the State Government to prescribe the form and manner of issue of the pass.

Clause 5 empowers the State Government to prescribe the form of register to be maintained by the owner for entering the names and particulars of the tenants.

Clause 6 empowers the State Government to prescribe the form and the manner for maintenance of the register and the receipt by the Director.

Clause 8(b) empowers the State Government to determine other persons to be exempted from the application of this proposed law.

Clause 10 provides the general rule making power to carry out the purposes of this proposed law.

Clause 11 of the Bill empowers the State Government to remove difficulties for a period of two years from the date of the commencement of the proposed law.

The delegations are not excessive and are normal in character.

FINANCIAL MEMORANDUM

As and when the proposed law is enacted and implemented, to enable the proposed Directorate and its sub-ordinate offices function fully, there will be an approximate non-recurring expenditure of Rs. 10.00 crores for the development of infrastructure and an approximate recurring expenditure of Rs. 80.00 lakhs per annum on account of salaries, maintenance etc. form the Consolidated Fund of the State for running the Directorate of Registration of persons and tenants.

——x——

Three Bills Passed by Government of Manipur:

1. The Protection of Manipur People Bill, 2015

2. The Manipur Land Revenue and Land Reforms (7th Amendment ) Bill, 2015

3. The Manipur Shops and Establishments (2nd Amendment) Bill, 2015

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/09/the-protection-of-manipur-people-bill-2015/

Attack on truck near Manipur-Assam (Jiribam) border by unknown persons

By Momon Thoudam Jiribam, 24rd August: In the midst of the present turmoil in Manipur, it has been reported that a truck driver was attacked by some unknown persons near

By Momon Thoudam

Jiribam, 24rd August: In the midst of the present turmoil in Manipur, it has been reported that a truck driver was attacked by some unknown persons near Manipur-Assam border bridge. The report says that Mr.Narendra Khumanthem was driving vehicle (no. AS-11AC 4536) towards Imphal loaded with cement bags from Fullertal, Cachar district Assam when the incident happened around 3.30 PM on Saturday, 23rd August. It added, few unknown people initially stopped the truck by blocking the road using a Canter vehicle, threatened the driver to hand them over the vehicle keys. After negotiating for some time, he was later allowed to carry on his journey. However, by the time the truck was about to cross the border bridge on Jiri river, around 3 unknown youths on bikes started attacking the truck with sticks and rods, and manhandled the truck driver, luckily the truck driver was able to cross the border with minor damages at the driver side of the truck.

The report further says that the attackers looked like Non-Manipuris, but they could communicate in Manipuri. It can be remembered that a new organisation christened as NEPO (North East People’s Organisation) formed by Bengali and Hindi speaking communities in Silchar, Assam has strongly condemned ILPS demand movement in Manipur, and demanded to remove ILPS from the existing states in NE i.e. Mizoram, Nagaland and Arunachal Pradesh.

At this point, it is not very clear about the motives of the assailants.

Manipur ILPS demand: General strike in Jiribam

Jiribam, 14 July 2015 : JCILPS Jiribam branch enforced general strike at different places and market areas in Jiribam sub-division. Leingangpokpi, Lalpani bazar and Champanagar were mainly affected by

ILPS demand agitation in Champanagar, Jiribam

Photo credit : Momon Thoudam

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/07/manipur-ilps-demand-general-strike-in-jiribam/

Surendera Dental College & Research Institute, Sriganganagar, Rajasthan, Supporting ILPS

Manipuri students of Surendera Dental College & Research Institute, Sriganganagar, Rajasthan showing their support in current agitation of Inner Line Permit System in Manipur.

Photos of curfew imposed in Imphal after JCILPS student agitator killed in police action

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/07/photos-of-curfew-imposed-in-imphal-after-jcilps-student-agitator-killed-in-police-action/

Rava Presents Ethical Fashion Event 2nd Edition 2015 “Walk Till You Die”

Rava Presents Ethical Fashion Event 2nd Edition 2015 “Walk Till You Die” – Random Pictures by Deepak Shijagurumayum

Special Category Status For Manipur

By : C. Doungel The placement of Manipur among comparatively developed states by a committee appointed by the then Union finance Minister in 2013 has very much upset and

Manipur

By : C. Doungel

The placement of Manipur among comparatively developed states by a committee appointed by the then Union finance Minister in 2013 has very much upset and disappointed the intelligentia of the state. There is apprehension that this will deprive the state from entitlement of 90% grant of plan fund enjoyed by backward states belonging to the special category. Accordingly, some persons had pleaded not to remove Manipur from the Special State Category with the 14th Finance Commission when they last visited Manipur. The pattern of fund devolution had since changed considerably with the award of 14th Finance Commission which has reinforced the apprehensions. The final picture will emerge with finalization of exercises initiated by NITI AYOG at the instance of Prime Minister. We do not know what are the exact parameters adopted by the committee in determining the same placement of state as developed. Nevertheless, by taking a long shot, we may assume that the committee must have drawn conclusion based on the impressive reports submitted by the State Government. They must have also relied on favourable statistics churned out by Government.

Let us now discuss some valid reasons for continuance of Manipur in the special category. Topographically Manipur is a land-locked hill state situated at the very tailend of the country. The Imphal valley is situated about 3000 feet above the sea level and for all purposes, Manipur should be considered a hill state. This does not however necessarily make it a tribal state. Being a princely state, no worthwhile development took place except the Old Secretariat, residence of the Political Agent (now used as Raj Bhavan) and the DCs residence {now used as Chief Ministers residence). They were constructed as symbol of the British Raj than anything else.

Amongst others, some of them for example, may be as follows : Water Supply, the number of villages / towns covered under this would be very high. Rural electrification coverage must be almost cent per cent. Construction of roads in terms of kilometers would not only be impressive but connectivity of villages would be excellent on paper atleast. Areas brought under irrigation including double cropping would be impressive. Control of Jhum and resettlement of jhumias and areas brought under plantation would be very high. Distribution of rice, kerosene and sugar under public distribution system would rate as excellent. Report about welfare schemes like mid-day meal and functioning of Anganwadi Centres would make very good impression. So also, reports about providing housing schemes under Tribal Development, Minority Schemes and Indira Awaj Yojna would also make impressive reading. Even in matters of law and order, killings and booking of criminals would show great progress according to statistics provided, though there is actually no improvement in law and order. Little did they realize that these can boomerang. Drawing some comparision with similarly placed states like Meghalaya, it inherited Shillong which was the erstwhile capital of undivided Assam having good road connection from Gauhati Railhead situated at a distance of 120 kms. Manipur`s disadvantages are manifold. It suffered badly from the ravages of 2nd World War. In fact most of the fiercest battle between the Allied Army and Japan/INA armies were fought in Manipur. It has now come to light that the battles around Maibam Lokpa Ching was the fiercest battle in the South-East Asian Front fought between a regiment of British army who were strongly dug in and another regiment of Japanese army. The causalities were one of the highest. Fierce battle were also fought at Bishnupur, Kanglatongbi, Kangpokpi and Jessami. Jessami was one place where the newly raised 1st Assam Regiment was deployed to stop Japanese advance to Kohima. The names of Jem. Thanghem Kuki decorated with Military cross and Jem. Satkhosei Kuki (Jangi nam) were some of the heroes known to us. Capt. M.K. P.B. Singh was one of the first officers to have built up the regiment. For estraordinary bravery, subedar, Nar Bahadur Thapa was awarded Victoria Cross for having faught very gallantly in the battle of Bishnupur. Imphal as also other places like Churachanpdur, Kanglatongbi and Kangpokpi were heavily bombarded. I recall that as a boy of six years in 1946, we used to swim in ponds created by bomb craters at Kangpokpi Mission Compound. The intensity of fighting in Manipur and Naga Hills necessitated construction of Air fields at Kakching and Koirengei.

The Dimapur – Manipur cart road was converted as motorable in early forties mainly for use of British army for transportation of supplies and equipment of war. The biggest disadvantage of Manipur however is the acute transport bottle-neck. Of the 236 km. long road from the railhead of Dimapur more than 100 kms. pass through the State of Nagaland which is equally disturbed and also at times hostile. Besides, the road is narrow and sharply winding at many points that transportation of heavy and bulky or long material are difficult. Passing through young mountains, landslide and sinking places are many. Added to this is the misery of blockades. Improvement of the so called alternate road through Jiribam and Tamenglong district is progressing at snail speed. If there is trouble in Bihar, Bengal, Assam or Nagaland, we suffer most. Cost of transportation perhaps is the highest for Manipur. Not much worthwhile infrastructure had been built since independence except construction of symbolic buildings like Assembly, High Court, New Secretariat which had benefited outside firms and the Ministers/beauraucrate who got their cuts. The poor people have not benefited out of these. Further, whatever little infrastructure of road, bridges etc. were built have either deteriorated and broken down.

There is hardly any scope for big industries and the main scope of self-employment is by accelerating economic activities through trade and commerce. The look east policy now, act east, is not yet able to make much impact. If power supply improves, small industries for making electrical goods like stabilizers, making steel almirahs, grills for windows, electric switches and plastic goods etc. can be established as people from Manipur have natural flair and skill. Construction of Tipaimukh Hydro Power Project which will make us power sufficient is stalled for reasons other than economic by psuedo experts spreading alarmist disinformation about it. Such negative attitudes are also stalling construction of other hydro power projects and taking up oil drilling and mining activities. Revival of traditional industries like handloom, weaving, furniture making (wooden, cane and bamboo) and pottery etc. could also go hand in hand.

Most convincing argument would however be to make use of the contentious merger agreements where there are stipulations that Manipur will be given special consideration in matters of development and job opportunities. I think we should profitably use this to convince the Government of India. For, the circumstances and backdrop under which small states in the North East or elsewhere were crated are indeed unique. Historical, political and ethnic reasons are the prime considerations leading to creation of these states. Treating them at par with advanced and viable states would not only be unfair but will also amount to penalizing them which will only put back the clock. The whole approach based on overestimated and false assumptions will rather jeopardise the whole gamut of developmental activities. It is, therefore, necessary to correct the aberrations and restore status quo ante so that a pragmatic approach is possible and the future of small states are safe.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/07/special-category-status-for-manipur/

Manipur Ambush: Exclusive Photos from 4th June Ambush site in Chandel Manipur

Kanglaonline exclusive photo coverage from ground zero at ambush site, Parolon in Manipur’s Chandel district. By Deepak Shijagurumayum. A misleading calm hung over leafy Parolon in Manipur’s Chandel district on Friday 5th

Kanglaonline exclusive photo coverage from ground zero at ambush site, Parolon in Manipur’s Chandel district.

By Deepak Shijagurumayum.

Villagers roaming around with air gun at the ambush site at Paorolon, Chandel District, Manipur. Photo by Deepak Shijagurumayum.

A misleading calm hung over leafy Parolon in Manipur’s Chandel district on Friday 5th June, 2015, 24 hours after 18 soldiers of the 6 Dogra Regiment were gunned down here in an ambush by militants from three different groups – NSCN(K), KYKL and KCP.

6th Dogra Regiment’s truck ambushed by militants at Paorolon, Chandel District, Manipur. Photo by Deepak Shijagurumayum.

A live Improvised Explosive Device (IED), placed inside a pressure cooker, lay on the side of the road, about 20 km away from the Myanmar border, with parrot green sandbags placed in front to mark the area. The handful of soldiers guarding the spot halted the little traffic filtering in, sending them back. They were waiting for the bomb disposal squad.

IED bomb was implanted in a pressure cooker to ambush the Indian Army by militants at Paorolon, Chandel District, Manipur. Photo by Deepak Shijagurumayum.

“The bomb is still live. We arrived after the incident was over and have been here ever since. We are conducting searches. But the insurgents could very well have left for Myanmar. It’s difficult,’’ said a soldier from 6 Dogra Regiment.

Chinese made hand granade which was found at the ambush site at Paorolon, Chandel District, Manipur. Photo by Deepak Shijagurumayum.

Next to the IED lay an grenade that’s yet to be defused and the remains of the battle day before — the skeletons of two completely charred trucks, and two empty burnt RPG shells.

6th Dogra Regiment’s truck ambushed by militants at Paorolon, Chandel District, Manipur. Photo by Deepak Shijagurumayum.

On 5th June, New York Times reported: “At least 20 soldiers were killed and 11 are injured,” said Col. Rohan Anand, an army spokesman in New Delhi. “The army convoy was first blasted using improvised explosive devices followed by rocket-propelled grenades and small-arms fire.”

Uniform of one of the deceased Indian Army at Paorolon, Chandel District, Manipur. photo by Deepak Shijagurumayum.

Exclusive photo coverage gallery from ground zero at ambush site, Parolon in Manipur’s Chandel district:

NECEER Celebrated World Environment Day

PRESS RELEASE WORLD ENVIRONMENT DAY NECEER, Imphal www.neceer.org.in World Environment Day was celebrated at Langthabal Nambul Mapal Jr High School by North East Centre for Environmental and Research

PRESS RELEASE

WORLD ENVIRONMENT DAY

NECEER, Imphal

www.neceer.org.in

World Environment Day was celebrated at Langthabal Nambul Mapal Jr High School by North East Centre for Environmental and Research (NECEER), Imphal with the theme entitled “Connect to yours roots and Save Rivers”. An environmental awareness programme along with painting competition was organized at the school to spread the message to save rivers. All the students of the school were participated at the event. Strong team of twelve volunteers gave an interactive awareness to the students regarding the environment pollution and its remedies. Teachers of the school enthusiastically supported the programme for giving awareness and encouragement to the students for saving our environment in action and with good intention. The brand ambassador of NECEER, Imphal, Manipuri Film Actress, Tonthoi Leishangthem lead the programme. She appeal to the students and teachers to connect to our ancestral lifelines, the “rivers” and conserve them for our future generations. Ms. Khrideshori Rajkumari and Mr. Atom Rajiv were the co-ordinators of the event. The programme was successfully conducted with the prize distribution to the winners.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/06/neceer-celebrated-world-environment-day/

14th Annual Social Gathering and General Body Meeting 2015 of EMA at Worcestershire, UK

The Annual Social Gathering and General Body Meeting for the year 2015 has just been concluded. The three day event which began on the evening of May the 22nd and

The Annual Social Gathering and General Body Meeting for the year 2015 has just been concluded. The three day event which began on the evening of May the 22nd and concluded in the morning of May the 24th , was held at Hanley Swan, a beautiful heritage village of English county of Worcestershire. Like every year the gathering was attended by Manipuri Diasporas residing in different parts of Europe, their friends and families.

A delicious treat of BBQ started the evening on Friday. But the main highlight of the gathering was the mouthwatering traditional Manipuri dishes prepared from ingredients and spices brought from home. To mention a few, Sareng thongba, rau taothong, mangal ushoi ooti, soibum eromba, thambou singju were the key items of the feast . Besides the delicacies it was a funfilled sporting event as well ,with ‘Thabal chongba’ and a tough football match between General Secretary team and Chairperson team . Gen Secy team won the match by 3-2 and lifted up the prestigious EMA Cup 2015 which began annually since 2014. Children of EMA parents also had a good time in the pleasant sunshine of temperature 15-20 degrees Celsius. They also enjoyed the most popular game, Chaphuthugaibi which seemed to be their favorite apart from them organizing a fund raising campaign themselves for orphans in Manipur. The fund drive was conducted by selling their unused toys and eatables prepared with their parents.

The gathering also had their annual General Body Meeting and this year happens to be the election year for a new EMA Executive Committee. Members had an exhaustive discussions on how to make EMA better as a platform for Manipuri Diaspora’s residing in different parts of Europe. A mutual understanding was reached for members to be actively involved in exploring ways to incorporate EMA as an organization to the changing needs of the time which will help the association function better and in an effective way. Some amendments in the Constitution were also passed by the general body. The General Body also elected a new Executive Committee members through proposals of candidates and voting . The EMA Executive Committee 2015-2017 are Chairperson – Dr. Krishnananda Sharma Shamurailatpam, General Secretary – Indrasekhar Mayengbam, Finance Secretary – Sobita Khangembam , Information Secretary – Rajesh Sharma Hidangmayum, Cultural Secretary – Bijaya Hijam and Sports Secretary – Deepak Takhelmayum.

The outgoing Chairperson, Mr Bishwajit Okram, thanked the outgoing committee members for selflessly working towards the upliftment of EMA as an orgnisation . He also thanked everyone for giving him the opportunity to serve the community and supporting him in many of the initiatives that he undertook during his tenure. In his speech, the newly elected Chairperson, Dr Krishnananda, also shared his common views and promised that he and his team will do their best to uphold the traditional values of EMA and to protect and preserve the identity of Manipur.

A group photo with women members wearing traditional Manipuri dresses summed up the very existence of EMA upholding and preserving the varied tradition and culture of Manipur and providing its members a platform to give them a feeling of ‘HOME AWAY FROM HOME’. Also a rare opportunity for children born and brought up here in Europe to remind them of their rich traditional and cultural roots.