Category: Imphal Free Press

From Our Correspondent

CHURACHANDPUR | Sept 12

A grand reception programme was organised for chief minister of Manipur, N. Biren Singh at Hiangtam Lamka public ground today where he visited.

The chief minister and his entourage walked from Churachandpur police station till the venue of the reception programme, where they were welcomed by different tribes and community leaders of the district.  The CM was traditionally welcomed with the famous bamboo dance ‘Suktuah lam’.

The chief minister, accompanied by his deputy and cabinet ministers were accorded a warm welcome by agriculture minister, V. Hangkhanlian and other MLAs of the district including Vungzagin Valte, GS. Haupu, Chaltonlien Amo and TT. Haokip.

The  ADCC  team led by its chairman Khaipao Haokip and district administration led by  DC Shyam  Lal  Poonia and SP Rakesh Balwal were also present during the reception.

Hangkhanlian delivered the welcome speech thanking the CM for his visit to Churachandpur. At the same time, he also highlighted the shortfalls in roads and means of communications, issue of supply of drinking water, the need for having a campus of Manipur University in the district, upgradation of the district hospital to a medical college, upgradation of PHED/PHC and government schools and need for utilisation of building that are lying vacant and others.

Addressing the mammoth gathering at Hiangtam Lamka public ground, the chief minister said the request made by the people of the district through his cabinet colleague Hangkhanlian will be taken into due consideration, adding that the government has already planned for a medical college in Churachandpur. However, an approval from Medical Council of India and central government is awaited, he added.

In regards to the issue of drinking water, Biren Singh said that the state government had sent a proposal of Rs. 159 crore to NLCPR to provide piped drinking water to the people of Churachandpur district and adjoining villages by using the water of Khuga Dam.

The state government is putting in efforts on Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s mission of providing piped drinking water to all the people of the country by 2022.

The water supply plant at Songtal being developed an estimated cost of Rs 4.8 crore is nearing completion and another plant is also being taken up under PHED Zone-III of the district at an estimated cost of Rs. 6.2 crore, said Biren.

The government would also take up rain water harvesting schemes as a means to resolve the problem of water scarcity, he added.

About MU campus in Churachandpur, the CM said that he has been in touch with the vice-chancellor of MU and is hopeful of having one soon in the district though assurance cannot be given as of now.

Regarding infrastructure development, the CM said that there is Rs. 58 crores for the backward Henglep sub-division and development works will be implemented after rainy season.

Under ‘Act East Policy’, the border village of Behiang will be the second gateway after Moreh town and for which good road is a must and the state government has earmarked Rs.30 crore for the project, said the chief minister.

He further said that the first trip of MSRT bus to Pherzawl district had to return back due to landslide, promising that that kind of sad news will not be heard soon. Rs.386 crore will be used for development of Churachandpur and Pherzawl district, he added.

Biren also said that ADCC affiliated department will also be upgraded at the tune of Rs.300 crore which will be particularly for Churachandpur and Pherzawl district. He added that government will give top priority to the hills and there is a need to have a topographic need base policy.

The chief minister today asked the people to think in terms of oneness and said that peace and development in Churachandpur have impressed the top leaders in the Centre including the Prime Minister.

He further said that under his government a state mission was envisaged where ‘Skill Mission’ was formed which can be on computer, carpentry, fashion designing or others. The government will give financial help for the skill development for which the applicant has to furnish their particulars, qualification, skills and other requirements. The mission is a part of his government’s ‘vision for the hills’, he added.

IMPHAL | Sept 11

Directorate of Information and Public Relations with Editors’ Guild Manipur including publishers from different media houses based in the State today had an interaction on GST related with media at the State Institute of Journalism, DIPR Complex, Moirangkhom. 

Speaking on the interaction programme, superintendent, department of taxes, government of Manipur, Y. Indrakumar highlighted particularly on the impact of GST to media, both print and electronic.

He said with the implementation of GST on July 1 all newspaper establishments and cable operators in Manipur should register with GST.

If not, the department can impose penalty to them.

He also explained on how to take benefits of Input Tax Credit (ITC). He further said under GST, a registered media firm has to file GST returns.

The interaction programme was also attended by director, IPR Meghachandra Kongbam.

Ram Madhav delivers Chinmayananda memorial lecture

IMPHAL | Sept 11

We should think what we can contribute for the development and welfare of the nation. People should not be merely  rights seekers, we need to work to such an extent that each and every citizen of this country gets their due respect in foreign countries.  

This was stated by chief minister, N. Biren, speaking as the chief guest at the ‘Swami Chinmayananda Memorial Lecture’ held at INA memorial hall, Moirang today. The lecture was organised by Chinmaya Mission.

Biren continued we have to leave negative thoughts so that there would be positive change, prosperity and inclusive growth in the country. He appealed to the people to abandon the mind-set to work only for their personal benefits but rather work in bringing inclusive development in the State.

He further stated that we need to organise such talk, lectures and conferences in our State so that we could think, mould and share wide knowledge to the present generation.

On the occasion, chief minister announced that photography would be allowed inside the premises of INA museum from today.

While delivering the lecture on “Vision of India through the eyes of Swami Vivekananda and Swami Chinmayananda”, national general secretary of BJP, Ram Madhav said people should become stakeholders to transform the country into a ‘New India’.

He stated that the government is not talking about reformation but for complete transformation of the country. If we want to become New India, it is the responsibility of the people and come forward to make a Swachh and corruption free India, he added.

He mentioned that in the next 5 years, India would become poverty free and corruption free country and no single person would be living in poverty by 2022. The government will have zero tolerance on terrorism and corruption, he added.

Praising Manipur as the land of prosperity, Ram Madhav said that Indian culture is incomplete without the rich Manipuri Culture. The objective of the new BJP led government is to bring peace and normalcy in the State.

The government is committed in restoring peace and saving territorial integrity of the State, he added. He further stated that knowledge without love is not a true knowledge. Let us commit ourselves to work and serve with love for the betterment of the society and country.

Stating that Swami Vivekananda was a true patriot, saint, social reformer, he stated that in his short life of 40 years, he had performed, contributed and accomplished a lot not only for the country but to the entire mankind.

He further stated that an individual should have pride of the past and give respect to it. Our society needs to discard bad things and embrace good things for the growth and development of the society, he added.

Mentioning the present illiteracy, corruption, blind beliefs prevailing in the country he appealed the people to feel the pain of the present and should work to reform the present.

Minister for forest and environment, Th. Shyamkumar, regional head, Chinmaya Mission (Chennai) Swami Mitrananda, advisor (HR and Economic Affairs) to CM MLA, P. Sharatchandra Singh, chairman MPSC Lt. General (Retd.) Himalaya Konsam, commandant, Military Intelligence Training School and Depot, Pune Lt. General L.N. Singh, Professor Amar Yumnam of MU, vice-chairman Manipur Infrastructure Development Agency (MIDA) M. Asnikumar Singh attended the function.

IMPHAL | Sept 11

The Asian Human Rights Commission (AHRC) has reiterated that the damage caused by the recent floods in the state was heightened by the construction of numerous dams and hydropower projects, none of which had been subjected to Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA) as mandated by the law. 

A release said the floods that took place in mid-June in Northeast India severely impacted the lives and livelihood of over 17 lakh persons, many of whom were displaced from their home villages.

It said the Ithai barrage constructed under the Loktak Multipurpose Hydroelectric Project and the Pare Hydro Power Project were created despite protests from local communities, who live downstream from these projects and faced great loss and severe damage, when these dams inevitably overflow during the monsoon season.

On September 3, there was a consultation on this matter attended by parties including the Loktak Project Affected Areas Action Committee, Mapithel Dam Affected Villagers Organisation, JAC-Mapithel Dam Downstream Affected Peoples, Loktak Fisheries Welfare Association, Centre for Research and Advocacy, Manipur, and the Committee on Human Rights, it added. 

Further it said the parties unanimously decided to petition the state and central governments to decommission problematic projects, including the Ithai Barrage project, the Tipaimukh dam, Pabram dam, as well as oil exploration projects all over the state.

The AHRC stands with the groups and organisations in demanding an independent Environmental Impact Assessment and ensure people’s participation during the commissioning and decommissioning of large projects that could have a deleterious effect on their lives, environment and livelihoods, it added.

The release continued most of the projects in the state are financed by external entities, such as the Asian Developmental Bank and the Japan International Cooperation Agency. These institutions do not appear to take the wishes of residents into account, despite residents being the biggest stakeholders in such projects, due to the direct impact on their well-being.

Under the Hydro Power Policy of 2012, there was a proposal to construct ten dams across the rivers in Manipur, despite the failure of most hydro projects/dams in the state, it said, adding in addition to these failures, the entities responsible for monitoring the projects – the North Eastern Electric Power Coorporation (NEEPCO) and the National Hydroelectric Power Coorporation (NHPC) – are negligent in their administration, as evidenced by constant delays in opening dam gates during floods.

Moreover, these entities are concerned with maximum power generation rather than the good of the people, creating a situation of conflicting interests, wherein corporate interests are given precedence over the rights of the residents, it pointed out.

The release emphasised in addition to the impact on the people, these projects have a marked adverse impact on the ecosystem, and in particular on indigenous communities in the area. The social and environmental impacts of the project have direct implications for indigenous communities, most of who depend on agricultural activities for their livelihood. 

The Central and State governments must take note of the adverse effect of these projects on the lives of residents in the area, as well as the fact that many of these constructions are unlawful, due to them being undertaken without fulfilling requirements under the relevant environmental laws, it added.

By Jeijei Newme

IMPHAL | Sept 11

A self-employed, Limpuiru Gangmei, who is in her twenties has carved a niche for herself as a craft designer making traditional ornaments especially of Rongmei tribe and is self-sufficient with just crafts making.

She makes necklaces, bracelets, earrings, hairbands, hair jewellery and even other decorative items like vessels decorating with traditional touch and so on.

A resident of Dimdailong, New Checkon, Limpuiru is the eldest among four siblings and now earns around 20 thousand a month for her and her family. 

In an exclusive chat with the IFP, she opened up that she first started her ornaments designing when she saw that during festivals like Gaan-ngai and Christmas, girls love to doll up but with limited traditional accessories.

Limpuiru noticed her community has rich colours and unique beauty but is kind of just wasting away without any contemporary updates. She then decided to start adding modifications and make it more stylish and remarkable to go with the contemporary trends.

But it was not an easy journey when she first started, she revealed that she faced many hardships like non-availability of raw materials, financial problems, and lack of manpower as she started off alone and had to work really hard to meet the demands of the customers.

Limpuiru had no mentor to teach her, it was all her creativity and hard work that makes her reach where she is today and she is thankful of her family for their continuous support.  Earlier she had enrolled herself in Blue Ocean Academy, Imphal based fashion school in 2008 but could not complete because of certain circumstances.

“I was only following my passion for designing and also preserving the indigenous culture and rich traditional beauty of Rongmei tribe, marketing comes to mind later on,” she said.

Her creative, stylish, contemporary and chic designs attract every girl’s dream look in traditional attire and are hard to be overlooked as her ornamental works adds a whole new dimension to the traditional look, adding grace.

Her biggest break was Sangai festival 2015, getting exposure in a state level event and there she realised she had more demands and starting feeling good that her hard work and passion has paid off.

Now that she works with her two younger sisters, Jessy and Kelly Gangmei, she has a bigger market than before; Limpuiru wants to expand it and is currently attached with a shop at New Checkon area, opposite Brighter Academy. She also said that she is planning to double her stock for this coming November 21 Sangai festival 2017.

When asked if she took any help from the government, she said “No but plans to take help only when I am properly settled with my own personal shop first.”

She gets her raw materials from Keithelmanbi, Senapati, Silchar, Dimapur and Delhi. She gets full support from her family from the start and even now her parents do not force her to pursue government jobs or other jobs but instead help her sometimes in her work.

Her ornaments were used by participants in the recently concluded August 20 Mr. and Mrs. IAWA India, Manipur contest where four winners were selected to represent Manipur in the December 2 finale at Mumbai.

Our Bureau

IMPHAL | Sept 11

There has been a critical decline in the aspect of discipline and manners particularly among the youth of the state. Art, games and sports have a significant place in reviving the diminishing culture, said minister Th. Radheshyam.

The education minister was speaking as the chief guest at the 4th annual prize distribution and felicitation function 2016-17 for contribution and achievements in the field of education, games and sports, art and culture organised by the Social Development Organisation (SODO), Konthoujam at Ibudhou Korouhanba Laibung, Moidangpok.

He said that competition in such fields is to bring complete growth to the young minds. There is a need for the young and old to understand and learn the significance of one’s existence, he added.

The reason for the existence of human is to make the world a better place by contributing the best for development, he said, adding if this is understood once it would be the end to all the prevailing issues and problems of not only the society but for the world too.

Beautiful people, the minister said, are those who has a good heart with readiness to help anyone with good manner. The prize distribution and felicitation is therefore being organised to encourage one and all to become one such good human of the society, he said.

MLA of Konthoujam A/C Dr. Sapam Ranjan Singh who also spoke on the occasion said that the children of the state need to be encouraged to take up civil services examination. The parents and teachers should guide the student coordinating each other for better future of the children, he added.

A book Mitna Uba Lai authored by Kh. Shamungou, chairman, State Environment Impact Assessment Authority, Manipur, was also released. He said, the book which is a collection of short stories is specially based on the life of the children belonging to the hill regions of the state. The book also tries to define the relationship between the man and nature, how they are indebted to each other, the author added. 

Acknowledging the observation education minister earlier, Shamungou said nature is like a teacher from which the human can learn the spirit of sacrifice, perseverance, patience and courage.

He said that if men learn to appreciate nature and safeguard them then the conflict between man and nature would be diminished.

The function was attended by the dignitaries, scholars, teachers and students.

Our Bureau

IMPHAL | Sept 11

The Telegraph Northeast Excellence Awards 2017 was awarded to Binalakshmi Nepram for her relentless work in the Northeast region of India. The award ceremony was held on September 7 at Guwahati.

Coordinator of Manipur Women Gun Survivors Network (MWGSN) received the award on behalf of Binalakshmi Nepram. The award is an exclusive platform to honour the dedication and perseverance of individuals who are visionary, creative and innovative to lead their respective states and the region towards growth and development.

A statement issued by the selection committee of award read “Binalakshmi was recognised and honored for continuously and selflessly striving to make the world a better place.” The committee also stated that women like Binalakshmi are working for various causes and issues concerning the society with exceptional commitment to her career and community.

In a statement issued by Binalakshmi, she said, “In honouring me, The Telegraph has honoured the women of Manipur and Northeast India”. She dedicated the award to the brave mothers of Manipur and Northeast India who through their sheer grit and determination have steered the course of the history of state and region in spite of over 60 years of armed conflict.

She vowed that she will be working with several women across Manipur and region to bring about much-needed change for peace and progress.

The awards were given out by CEO and MD of ABP Pvt Ltd, D.D. Purkayastha, vice-president of The Telegraph, Dhruba Mukherjee, chairman of the Public Accounts Committee of the Assam Assembly, Rajdeep Gowala and PWD minister Parimal Suklabaidya.

Born to parents Nepram Bihari and Yensembam Ibemhal, Binalakshmi Nepram hails from Sagolbandh Nepra Menjor Leikai. She is a poet, author of 4 books and is the founder of Manipur Women Gun Survivors Network and Control Arms Foundation of India.

She is the recipient of several national and internationally recognised awards for her work on women led initiatives for peace and downtrodden women survivors of armed conflict in Manipur and Northeast Region.

By A Staff Reporter

IMPHAL | Sept 11

Joint Action Committee against the brutal killing of Sadokpam Romesh, demanded investigation into the death of Romesh and punishment of all those who were found guilty in the case.

Speaking to media persons, convenor of JAC, Moirangthem Ingocha said Sadokpam Romesh (24) son of M. Tomba of Yairipok Chandrakhong was a good and polite youth. For the last two years he left home and joined Meipak workshop, a four wheeler workshop as a mechanic located at Malom Makha leikai to enhance family income.

He said on September 9 around 12.30 am on the charge of poultry theft and peeping at women’s room, Soibam Rabi Singh son of S. Gourabidhu and Soibam Chili son of S. Abungcha from Malom Makha leikai caught him from the gate of the workshop. After taking him to the house of Rabi he was beaten black and blue and dropped him at the gate of the workshop.

Owner of the workshop Maipak informed about the incident to his father Romesh after he was admitted to intensive care unit of Raj Medicity, North AOC, Ingocha added. Due to severe injury Romesh succumed to injuries today at the hospital.

Convenor of JAC further said a public meeting was held today against the brutal killing of Romesh at Yairipok Chandrakhong. After the public meeting a large number of people came in four Tata trucks to submit a memorandum to chief minister N. Biren Singh to investigate the incident and to punish the murderer.

In the memorandum the committee demanded punishment of the culprits involved in the incident. Proper compensation should be given to the family of the deceased and until the demands of JAC are not fulfilled intense agitation will be launched with civil society organisation.

IMPHAL | Sept 11

The proposed indefinite bandh on September 11 in the 22 bridges along NH-37 between Barak to Phaithol road has been called off after the principal secretary, government of Manipur assured for disbursement of compensation of the 22 bridges through the deputy commissioner of Tamenglong. 

A release of the Social Welfare Forum (SWF) said the decision was taken by all the affected land owners and villagers in an emergency meeting convened by SWF today. The meeting further resolved to take more serious form of agitation in the region if the government fails to release the pending compensation of the bridges on the proposed state cabinet meeting to be held on September 13.

IMPHAL | Sept 11

Three teachers of Lower Primary Madrassam, Haoreibi Makha Leikai have been placed under suspension respectively for shifting of school in a private building without the approval of higher authorities, non-reporting of the same and for not conducting regular classes.

Another three teachers of Thoudam Wangmataba Primary School have also been placed under suspension of being absent without informing the authorities, said a release.

During the recent visits made by the minister of education as well as education directorate officials, it has been revealed that some of the schools have deliberately not reported the non-functioning of schools to the concerned authorities, it said.

The suspended teachers are Md. Tamijur Rahman, Sitara Begum and Nilyma Khatun from Lower Primary Madrassam, Haoreibi Makha Leikai, Y. Irabot Sing, Md. Habibulah and Th. Jekendro from Thoudam Wangma Taba Primary School, it continued.

All concerned are advised to take care of their students effectively by smoothly running the schools, it further said. Any deviation from the expected duties of the teachers/ heads shall be viewed seriously, it added.

Jiri News Network

JIRIBAM | Sept 11

The All Jiribam Road Transport Union (AJRTU) caught 46 non-Manipuris without proper papers of identification, while trying to collect tax and checking the loads of a truck in the area of Samupunbi Gularthol.

After hearing the news, secretary of Kangleicha Club Samupunbi, S. Chaoba Meetei, secretary of NCDC, Chingkoipung, N. Sadananda Meetei, secretary of JDO, W. Dinesh Meetei, secretary of AJUCA, Y. Ibomcha Singh, chairman of JCILPS, Jiri branch, M. Hemanta Mangang, president of AMSU, Y. Sanjiv Singh and secretary of AJRTU, S. Pratab Singh gathered together and probed the persons. It was known that the people are from Dhubri district of Assam and Bihar, who came to Jiribam to work for Triveni Company.

According to sources, most of the persons either have fake identity papers or no papers. Among the group, there were 26 minors in which one was only nine years old. Later, the persons were handed over Jiribam Police Station and the minors to Juvenile home.

By A Staff Reporter

IMPHAL | Sept 10

Education minister, Th. Radheshyam said that in order to let the students used their innovative and creative mind the present trends of pressurising and keeping a student surrounded by books throughout the clock need to be change. 

He was delivering the chief guest speech at the presentation of Governor’s Award, 2017, Rajkumari Sanatombi Devi Award, 2017 and prize distribution at the Asha Jina Complex, Imphal  organised by the managing committee of Rajkumari Sanatombi Devi Vidyalaya, Haotal.

Radheshyam appreciated the committee for presenting such awards to the students and said that such awards will give motivation and inspiration to the awardees and to other students in giving more effort to their studies and sports.

The minister asked the students to not take education just for the sake of degree for their job but to take it as a weapon to bring solution to the problem face by the society and to bring development in the society.

“Let us groom the young and fresh minds with ability to let them become facilitators and mentors by inculcating them with certain principles and values which will never change with the change of time,” he said.

Everyone in the society should think of how they can contribute for the betterment and development of the society through education. Education is not just to get employment but to find solutions of the problems faced by the society, he added.

It is only when the educated and experienced people becomes the solution seekers, finding answers to the problems of the society then only, they will become the source of joy, the minister said. 

Radheshyam asked the parents and teachers not to set limit of a student looking at his or her performance instead he asked to impress the students to do better in the future.

MLA, Dr. Sapam Ranjan said that education has been excelling with development of technologies but the parents should not forget to guide their children in the right direction.

Education is to have skill, knowledge, values, believe and good habits to make one able to make the right choice, he added.

The governor’s award, 2017 for best student of R. K. Sanatombi Devi Vidyalaya was awarded to Kulsum Alisha Khan.

K. Sanatombi Devi award, 2017 for topper HSLC exam, 2017 was awarded to Priyanka Moirangthem of Nirmalabas school and for best teacher was given to Chungkham Indira Devi, lecturer, Johnstone Higher Secondary School.

In sports five awards were awarded to the following sports personality Chungkham Parbati for armwrestling, Khusboorani Laishram for fencing, Irom Matouleibi Devi for cycling, Sulina Ningombam for mountaineering and trekking and Oinam Khumanleima Chanu for taekwondo.

The best traffic police was awarded to Traffic police assistant sub inspector, M. Ninglumla.

By A Staff Reporter

IMPHAL | Sept 10

Democratic Students Alliance of Manipur (DESAM) and All Naga Students Association, Manipur (ANSAM) appealed to the government to look into the schools and colleges located in the interior part of the state as many of them are in worse condition.

Speaking to media persons today at DESAM office at Sagolband, Imphal DESAM president, Moirangthem Angamba said that last Friday DESAM along with ANSAM and Naga Students Union Chandel have inspected schools and colleges in Chandel district.

During the inspection they found that the United College, Chandel which is the only government college in Chandel district has less number of staff when compare with the sanction post, he added.

Moreover there is no computer laboratory and no proper science practical laboratory, does not even have a separate toilet for boys and girls, shortage of infrastructure and random transfer of teachers took place, continued the president.

On the other hand the college is located far from the district headquarters so the students face difficulties in transportation.

He said that the Maha Union Higher Secondary School has also less number of staff as compare to the sanctioned post, the mid-day meal system is not available and has lack infrastructure. 

ANSAM executive secretary, Ac. Thotso as people living in the exterior part of the state mostly has poor financial condition majority of their children depends on government schools and colleges for education.

Thinking about the problems of the students studying in institutions located in interior part of the state he appealed to the government to look into schools and colleges located in the interior part of the state.

Thotso said that ANSAM and DESAM will tomorrow inspect schools and colleges located at Senapati district.

IMPHAL | Sept 10

A one-day public awareness programme in memory of the contribution of (L) Dr. Huirongbam Atulchandra Singh in establishing public library in Manipur was organised at the Conference Hall of Manipur University library today.

The function was attended by minister of CAF & PD, W & M, Revenue, Karam Shyam, vice-chancellor of MU, Professor Adya Prasad Pandey, Librarian, Manipur University of Culture, Thounaojam Khomdon Singh and Librarian (i/c), Manipur University, Professor Th. Madhuri Devi as chief guest, president and guests of honour respectively.

Highlighting the role of library as a significant part of education and human civilisation, minister Karam Shyam assured that the state will develop only with adequate knowledge, brainstorming and analysing in all possible areas. He further said that a leader must be committed to his words and implement it irrespective of all the hustle and bustle of error-stricken everyday life of Manipur and added that he will try his level best to build a Manipur Public Library and extend all possible help to start a library movement with a holistic approach.

Karam Shyam also convinced that talks are on with the chief minister regarding the issue of shifting army settlement from the university campus to some other appropriate locations. “The university is a centre of high educational excellence and it should not be controlled by the army”, he also said.

Delivering his presidential address, Professor Adya Prasad Pandey said that it is our overall societal responsibility to develop academic institutions for a better society and all suggestions to develop MU and its welfare are most welcome.

Highlighting that a library is the centre of knowledge where we can learn a lot of things, he stressed on the need of each and every industry to contribute  a bit for the social cause. “The people of Manipur are generous and can do a lot for the development of MU and the state”, he said.

Giving a brief biographical picture of Dr. Huirongbam Atulchandra, assistant professor of  Library Science department, MU, Ch. Ibohal said that Manipur is today celebrating 80 years of public library movement in connection with his 120th birth anniversary as a mark of commemorating his contribution in establishing a public library in Manipur and honouring his noble efforts in setting up educational technical institutions in the early era of the 19th century that are indeed a source of  inspiration for the human generations.

“Born on 10th September, 1897 at Kakwa Nameirakpam Leikai to H. Tunal Singh and Laishram Chaobi Chanu, Atulchandra studied stenography, accountancy and homeopathy at Banarus Hindu University during 1926-1930, then he started free homeopathic treatment when he returned home. He established the Canchipur Polytechnic School, Manipur Book Club and even contested in the Second Manipur Territorial Council Election in 1957 apart from other contributions in the field of art and culture like Ranga Mandir, Mainu Pemcha, Jaidev and embroidery works”, he also said.

Advocate Khaidem Sanjoy, vice-president of UCM, Sunil Karam, grand daughter of (L) Huirongbam Atulchandra, Ch Shantibala, former MUSU president, Ksh. Narayan along with faculties, staff and students of MU took part in the function.

IMPHAL | Sept 10

The Kakching District Headquarter Demand Committee of Waikhong Thongjao after joining hands with Kakching District Headquarter Demand Committee of Wabagai demanded that Waikhong Thongjao be selected as the district headquarters of the newly created Kakching district.

Chairman of demand committee Waikhong Thongjao, Ng. Joykumar Singh said that Waikhong Thongjao is centrally located and it will not affect much in the construction of new infrastructure because of state reserved land.

President of demand committee Wabagai, M. Lalit Singh stated that the selection of district headquarters should be done after taking into consideration administrative conveniences and agricultural land.

Both the heads of the demand committee suggested that Waikhong Thongjao is the perfect place to be the district headquarters. They lamented that there is no use of urbanising the already urbanised areas. Instead rural areas should be urbanised, they said.

Lalit Singh also pointed out that Hiyanglam, Sugnu and Wabagai constituencies are underdeveloped and these need to be developed. He demanded that the same mistakes committed while assigning Thoubal district headquarter should not be repeated.

A memorandum was submitted to the chief minister N. Biren Singh on May 5. They also met the CM, deputy CM and revenue minister on July 25 pleading their demand.

By Jimmy Leivon

GANGTOK | Sept 10

The two-day ‘2nd North East Healthcare Summit’ which concluded on September 9 in Gangtok stressed on collaborative strengthening health care systems amongst all Northeastern States to achieve the sustainable development goals.   

The summit was organised by the Public Health Foundation of India (PHFI) in partnership with the ministry of MDoNER, the government of Sikkim and the Sir Thutob Namgyal Memorial Hospital (STNM), Gangtok, Sikkim.

In his address the Arjun Kumar congratulated the organisers – PHFI, STNM Hospital and DoNER for organising the second edition of the Summit in Sikkim that highlights key issues in today’s evolving healthcare scenario pertinent to Northeastern parts of India.

“Poor healthcare services in the Northeast and the need to enhance manpower, including setting up of more medical colleges in the region is the requirement of the day. There is an urgent need to review the progress of schemes sanctioned by centre or the NEC towards the improvement of healthcare services in the region, especially infrastructure, in addition to finding out better ways and means to remove health problems and inaccessibility to quality healthcare especially in rural areas of the region”, he said.

In her video address Dr Soumya Swaminathan, director general ICMR, said, “Northeast is one of the most vibrant regions in India, but its health indicators have unfortunately lagged behind from the rest of India on many counts. With so much technological and infrastructure advancements, it is time to bring about a rapid improvement in the public health indicators, especially in light of the renewed commitment by the central government towards the entire Northeast region.”

This year’s 2nd Northeast Healthcare summit concentrated on emerging health concerns in the region with a special emphasis on the current scenario in Northeast and the sustainable development goals (SDG). The themes for this year’s summit were: mental health and substance abuse, non-communicable diseases, health policy, service delivery and health systems strengthening and environmental health. 

The summit falls under the umbrella of Project Swasth Uttar Purv, under the aegis of DoNER ministy that is committed to address the identified and felt needs of the eight states of the Northeast by promoting policy and programme relevant research, by filling critical information gaps, conducting health summits and Health Conclaves, conducting impact assessments and cancer awareness programs, evaluating innovations for improving the outreach and effectiveness of health systems, ultimately developing a robust public health cadre in the Northeast.

The summit saw representation from the respective Northeastern states from secretary, health Meghalaya Shangpliang and mission director of NHM, Mizoram Lalrozama, RRC, MoHFW, Bamin Tada amongst other high end officials from the states and representatives from WHO,UNICEF and experts and academia from across the country.

The summit was inaugurated by Arjun Kumar Ghatani, minister, healthcare, human services and family welfare, Sikkim along with PD Rai, member of parliament from Sikkim.

 Also present on the occasion were Alok Kumar Srivastav, chief secretary, Sikkim, Dr K Bhandari, director-general-cum secretary health, Sikkim, Jayanto Narayan Choudhury, vice president PHFI, Dr KB Gurung, medical superintendent STNM Hospital, Dr. Priscilla C Ngaihte, in-charge, Northeast Region (Special Projects)  along with a host of senior government health officials from all the Northeastern states of India.

By A Staff Reporter

IMPHAL | Sept 10

The chief minister, N. Biren met 400 people from different parts of hill districts and attended to 172 cases on Hill Leaders’ Day, which fell today.

It may be recalled the 10th of every month is reserved exclusively for an interface between hill people and the CM.

Speaking to media persons, chief minister N. Biren said the 10th of every month is reserved exclusively for village chiefs, leaders of civil voluntary organisations of hill districts only and 15 of every month is for common people of both hills and valleys.

But common people of hill district also came to put their grievances and to present gifts. Most of the complaints are based on poverty, he added. Almost all the complaints made by hill people have been fulfilled and till now most of the problems have solved, Biren claimed. But I cannot assure to solve the problems completely as it is “human problem”, he added.

In response with a query from the media in relation with the statement of former chief minister, Okram Ibobi during a press conference held yesterday on MDS scam, N. Biren said the statement of O. Ibobi is appreciated as a responsible leader.

It may be mentioned that Ibobi said that he will co-operate to root out the corruption system from the state.

He said to root out the corruption system from the state people and leaders of the state need to walk together in a same pace.

For air ambulance facilities it will start functioning in the state as central government has made an earmarked of 24 cores as already mentioned by governor of the state Najma Heptulla, N. Biren added.

The chief minister further said today one Meitei woman came along with a boy who was severely injured in the landslide that occurred recently near Shirui village. The boy was totally helpless as he has a poor financial background. “I have instructed the respective district commissioner of Ukhrul to give all the necessary assistance under the regulation of government”, he informed.

Biren also directed Jawaharlal Nehru Institute of Medical Science authority to continue treatment from today at free of cost for the rape victim of Senapati district. She was mentally disturbed from the incident and directed the hospital authority to continue treatment until she is completely well.

Biren said usual complaint for repairing of roads, construction of market-sheds, bus-stop for school going children and others came up, he made assurance to solve the problems at the earliest.

People from Tamei came and requested for repairing of Tamei government school toilet along with photographs. N. Biren said he was shocked to see the condition of toilet, and he directed the parliamentary secretary (education) concerned to construct two toilets separately for boys and girls and to take necessary steps immediately. 

In response to another complaint for construction of bus-shed at Kasom-Khullen, he asked the deputy commissioner concerned of Kason-Khullen to construct the bus-shed which is especially meant for the convenience of school going students and old-aged people.

Repairing and maintaining of potholes has been continuing and it has completed more than 80 percent for National Highway number 2. But due to rainy season construction of major roads at hill are still under progress, with the end of rainy season construction of major roads will be completed without delay, N. Biren assured.

The chief minister further said that genuine entrepreneurs who came to meet him for assistance on Hill Leaders’ day and Meeyamgi Numit had been provided assistance in the form of loans with reasonable sum from Manipur state cooperative bank.

Further he continued for lack of medical facilities in hill districts a 50 bedded hospital at Tamenglong district is ready to inaugurate. However, the main problem for the health sector in hill districts is due to the lack of manpower and lack of equipment.

 In order to solve the problem 300 doctors will be recruited through Manipur public service commission along with other medical staffs and adequate accommodation and quarter facility will be fulfilled within a short period of time.

By A Staff Reporter

IMPHAL | Sept 10

Senior advocate, Khaidem Mani said that in order to uphold the values of democracy the government of India should acknowledged that until and unless AFSPA, 1958 is repealed, India cannot be a member of the security council of the United Nation.

Briefing to media persons today at his residence at Loklaobung, Imphal, Mani said that as per common Article 1 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) and International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ECOSOC) each and every political community has a right to determine and follow political system of its own choice and to follow and practice its own socio, economic and cultural lives.

Though the Indian constitution is the largest and greatest constitution of the world, it inadvertently left out the right of the indigenous peoples of the Northeastern states, he added.

The senior advocate claimed that thousands of people of Northeast (including Manipuri Meitei) are still not considered as either belonging to general, scheduled caste or scheduled tribe though they are all indigenous people and have their distinct way of life.

He appealed to the central government to amend the Article 3 of the constitution as to protect the indigenous people’s right to land and territories.

Mani asked the central government to stop militarisation in the state in the name of national security by using the draconian law like AFSPA, 1958 which is a racial law and appealed to repeal the AFSPA from the state.

He further asked the central government to stop centralism and follow the federalism system.

IMPHAL | Sept 10

The proscribed Kangliepak Communist Party (Military Council – Progressive) said in order to create an independent Kanglei land and save its people from complete obliteration, all the hilly and valley people must root out corruption from the education sector.

Since the beginning of time, all living things in the world including human beings acquire experience, learn and have a tendency to impart knowledge and skill, said a release signed by chairman, Chingkhei.

Amongst them, human beings have excelled in the field of knowledge and been competing against one another, it said. The research scholars and leaders across the world have undoubtedly agreed that only quality education can enlighten all and head towards progress, it continued.

As a matter of fact, the level of progress made by a country is measured by its quality of education, it said. In the case of Kangliepak, ever since it became dependent under the colonial rule of India, the native language, its traditions and ways of life, religion etc. have all faded out, it continued.            

At such a crucial juncture, what makes it really disconcerting is that at many education sectors in Kangliepak, corruption is rampant and it has turned quality education into ‘money education’, it further said.

A special team of the party ‘Operation Mangal (OM) Kangliepak’ have found out after investigation that scheme to earn money through corruption is being planned and implemented by a group of miscreants in order to abolish the future generations, it added.  

Some particular student organisation, teacher association, guardian association have been found providing assistance to these corrupt groups and collected funds to compromise the reserved quotas for teachers post, it said. The party will soon give out their names of these organisations to the public. It added.  

Their punishments will be reduced if they surrender themselves to the public and the party, accept the wrong doings they had committed, and request to relieve them of their crime, it continued.

If they turned against the party, then KCP (MC- Progressive) will give them appropriate punishments and it will be acknowledged to the public, it said.  Additionally, let the people and revolutionary parties who are going against corruption move forward together in regards to the initiative taken by Operation Mangal (OM) Kangliepak by KCP (MC –Progressive), it added.

Newmai News Network

DIMAPUR |Sept 10

The government of India is likely to invite the “Working Group of 6 Naga National Political Groups (NNPG)” to hold political dialogues. The 6 NNPGs are GPRN/NSCN, FGN, NNC (parent body), NPGN/NNC (NA), NSCN (R) and NNC/GDRN (NA).

These six groups came together in the latter part of 2016.

Reports are doing the round in Nagaland that New Delhi may invite the Working Group of the 6 NNPGs very soon for the dialogues. However, it is not clear whether the talks will be held at the same table along with the NSCN (IM).

Of late, Nagaland Tribes Council (NTC) and Against Corruption and Unabated Taxation (ACAUT) and certain leaders are vocally campaigning that the ongoing Naga political dialogues should be made “inclusive,” while also demanding the content of the August 3, 2015 ‘Framework Agreement’ to be revealed.

Meanwhile, Centre’s interlocutor for Naga talks, RN Ravi had stated recently in an interview with a Dimapur based newspaper that “since the solution to Naga issue has to be inclusive there is ample space to accommodate all in the Naga peace process”.

RN Ravi also made it clear that there will be only one peace process and one agreement because we cannot fragment the Naga issue.

In that interview, RN Ravi had stated that “While the formal negotiation has been going on with the NSCN (I-M), I have been reaching out to other stakeholders for their views and cooperation”, adding “Of course we cannot wait indefinitely for those who do not respond positively to our call of inclusiveness. We are working towards signing a final agreement at the earliest”.