Photo – Page 4 – Manipur News

Film on Mary to be filmed in Manipur : Priyanka

Mail News Service
Imphal, July 16 : Leading Bollywood actress, singer and songwriter Priyanka Chopra left Imphal on Tuesday after visiting the residence of t MC Mary Kom at Langol Game Village in Imphal West.
The winner of the Miss World pageant of 2000 arrived in the state capital on Monday to share knowledge on the real life of London Olympic bronze medalist Mary Kom for a biopic on the Manipuri boxing icon. Shortly before she left Imphal, Priyanka met the Manipur media at Hotel Classic in Imphal. She said she thanks Mary Kom and her family who welcomed her warmly.
She said that most of the scenes of the film will be shot in tManipur and the shooting will be finished by next year.
The shooting of the film began in June. Prinka is essaying the role of Mary. This film produced by Sanjay Leela Bhansali is directed by Omung Kumar and the story is written by Seisaiwyn Qundras. Priyanka is the co-producer of the film.
Prinka accompanied by her crew including her body guard left Imphal at 12:45 pm in an Air India flight.
During her two-day visit to the state, Prinka also visited the Sports Authority of India (SAI) complex, Takyel here where Mary Kom started her career as a boxer more than ten years ago.
Priyanka said her visit to Manipur is to carry out research work.
Physical training has started she said. She however said the name of the film , script have not been finalised. Everything will be finalised after going back to Mumbai she said. The shooting of the film will be done in Manipur and some other parts of thecountry. Since authenticity is required major portions of the
film will be done in Manipur, Omkar said.
The main theme of the film will be Mary Kom and her life as she is the pride of the country, Priyanka said.
“Everything about Mary is fascinating and Manipur is beautiful and I am happy I will be coming to Manipur to shoot a film on Mary” Priyanka said. She said she feels proud to visit Manipur and other parts of north east. She said she knows that Hindi film is banned in Manipur by militants and she hoped that the film will be able to bridge the gap. She hopes a miracle occurs so that people in Manipur can watch a Hindi film based on Mary Kom. Omkar said full shooting schedule will start soon.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/film-on-mary-to-be-filmed-in-manipur-priyanka/

Thangjam Manorama remembered

IMPHAL, July 11 MNS/NNN : Thangjam Manorama was remembered on her 9th death anniversary on Thursday.
Th Manorama Memorial Charitable Trust, Bamon Kampu and Apunba Lup organised a function marking the anniversary at Bamon Kampu Community Hall where leaders of several social organizations were also present.
Manorama, a 32-year-old woman from Bamon Kampu Mayai Leikai was arrested from her residence by troops of 17 Assam Rifles on the night of July 10 and was later raped and brutally killed by the paramilitary force on July 11, 2004. Her body was found dumped near Ngariyan Mapao Maring village.
Addressing the function, KT Rahman, advisor, All Manipur United Clubs’ Organisation (AMUCO) called for a joint struggle to repeal Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, 1958 from Manipur.
Rahman said Prime Minister Manmohan Singh had called this as a Draconian law.
Irom Chanu Sharmila is now on fast for more than 12 years demanding revocation of AFSPA, he said, adding, “We need to take up forceful movement to withdraw the controversial Act, but so far it remains enforced in the state.”
Pandam president Yumnamcha Dilip said AFSPA has killed scores of people and raped many women in the state and the world knows it well.
Social worker, Thounaojam Iboyaima, co-ordinators of Apunba Lup Phunindra Konsam, Sunil Karam and Ayekpam Langdon Leima shared the dais at the occasion.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/thangjam-manorama-remembered-2/

KSDC’s general strike concludes economic blockade begins

Imphal Jul 9 MNS UNA : At least four vehicles were damaged including one which was torched by Kuki State Demand Committee (KSDC) supporters in Churachandpur district on the second and last day of the 36-hour general strike which was concluded this evening, at 5 pm.
With the ending of the general strike, the economic blockade on the national highways passing through the Kuki dominated areas of the state has commenced from 5 pm. The KSDC has geared up to enforce the 48-hour economic blockade at all important roads in the state, a statement of the committee dispatched to the media informed. The blockade which would be concluded at till 5 pm of July 11 would be effective on the Imphal-Ukhrul and Imphal Churachandpur section of NH-150, Imphal-Jiribam via Tamenglong section of NH-37, Imphal-Moreh and Imphal-Senapati section of NH-2 as announced earlier by the KSDC.
Meanwhile, on the last day of the 36-hour general strike imposed by the KSDC, at least four vehicles (two Alto brand cars, a Gypsy were dismantle and a two wheeler pulsar brand motorcycle was set afire) by the strike supporters at Tuiboung and Sielmat area along the Imphal-Churachandpur section of the NH-150.
Except this sporadic incident, the general strike has concluded by and large peacefully.
The KSDC claimed that on the second day of the general strike there witnessed unflinching supports at all places in Kuki dominated areas of present day Manipur.
In Imphal-Ukhrul Road more than two hundred women folks come out on the street at Mahadev near Mongnelphai in Ukhrul district and enforced the general strike. Owing to the strict enforcement of the strike, even peddlers were out of sight on this road said the KSDC vice-chairman T.S. Kuki.
In Imphal-Saikul road total bandh has been observed and all the schools, government offices and business establishment in Saikul sub-division remained closed for the second day today.
In Imphal-Jiribam-Tamenglong no vehicular movement and no incident is reported and as such in Leimatak proper all offices and schools are also remained shut.
In Churachandpur district a pulsar motor-cycle was burnt down by bandh supporters. Hundreds of people came out on the streets in support of the general strike and stopped movement of the vehicles including convoys of security forces to avert any untoward incident.
Government offices including the office of Deputy Commissioner, schools and colleges were closed. Women in hundreds hold banner in support of Kuki State and burn tyres on the streets, the KSDC said. In Imphal-Dimapur section of the NH-2, except few vehicles and no vehicular was seen plying except opening of some shops at Motbung and
Kangpokpi and its adjoining areas where United People’s Front (UPF) allegedly forced to open the shops, opposing the agitations being launched by the KSDC.
The same situation was witnessed along the Imphal-Moreh section.
Government offices, schools and business centres were remained close at border town, Moreh during the 36-hour general strike.
The KSDC further announced that the committee has geared up to enforce the 48-hour economic blockade at all important roads in the state from today, at 5 pm, the statement of the KSDC signed by its information and publicity secretary S George Guite said.

Women attack rapist

IMPHAL, July 8 NNN : Police today faced a tough situation when a large number of womenfolk stormed the court of Chief Judicial Magistrate, Imphal West where a raped accused was presented.
I Bobo aged 39, an accused in a 12-year-old girl rape case, was attacked by the agitating women, who were present inside the court complex, with sandals and ladies shoes.
The police escorting the accused however carried him away and led inside the police van safely. Shoes and sandals were thrown toward the rape accused by the women protesters when he walked out of the court room.
Additional police personnel were called in to control the angry crowd inside the court complex. However, no one was injured in the aggressive standoff.
The court remanded the accused to further 15 days judicial custody.
Bobo allegedly raped his own niece at Tharoijam Maning Leikai under Patsoi Police Station in Imphal West on July 1.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/women-attack-rapist/

Insurgency hampering development : CM

IMPHAL, July 8 MNS/NNN : The CM of Manipur O. Ibobi said, Manipur sericulture project’s phase two will be taken up under the financial assistance of ministry of textiles.
He was speaking as chief guest at the cheques laptops distribution function under HEDA, cluster and CDP at MFDC auditorium hall, palace gate Imphal today.
To improve the economy of Manipur handloom products should be exported to outside and for this quality should be maintained.
He was of the view that with the help of power looms, our products have to be increased. Without peace, there will be no development. To bring peace and prosperity, he sought the help of the people, he said and added that the govt. is ready to hold talks with UGs.
Gobindas Konthoujam commerce and industries minister in his presidential address said the govt. has the policy to distribute solar home lighting system so that weavers can produce hand loom products. He appealed them to maintain work culture.
The principal secy, commerce and industries O. Nabakishore and director sericulture and commerce and industries also attended the function.
“Although Japan tries to invest huge money for various projects in Manipur, the insurgency problem has hampered this development”, said Manipur Chief Minister O Ibobi Singh on Monday.
He said as per 2009-10 census there are only 2.18 people producing handloom and handicraft items in the country with Manipur enjoying the third place amongst the largest producers of handloom articles.
The Chief Minister distributed cheques amounting to Rs 3 lakh-5 lakh to 22 handloom entrepreneurs under Handloom Export by Development Approach (HEDA) Projects, 2013.
A total of 17 laptops including printers and generators were also given to 17 handloom clusters under the Computer Added Textiles Design (CATD).
For Sericulture Department, 40 percent balance check amount each deducting from the total amount Rs 70.08 lakh was also distributed to 455 beneficiaries under Catalytics Development Programme (CDP) in respect of Imphal West, Imphal East, Thoubal, Senapati, Chandel, Tamenglong districts and Kangpokpi.
Ibobi said, “We need power looms to save time. Our state enjoys the third place amongst largest producers of handloom items in the country and we are really proud of it.”
However, he said Japan wants to invest huge money in the state for various projects, but it has been hampered by insurgency problem.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/insurgency-hampering-development-cm/

Kuki bandh affects life

IMPHAL, July 8 MNS/NNN: The two-day bandh called by Kuki State Demand Committee (KSDC) in all kuki dominated areas of Manipur began today at 5 am affecting all the normal daily activities.
Due to the strike launched by Kuki state demand committee (KSDC) shops at Moreh town were closed down .
The KSDC claims that in Churachandpur seven vehicles including one Shaktiman truck, two Activa Honda bike, one Tata Magic van and three Auto-rickshaws were damaged by bandh supporters on the first day of the bandh today.
According to KSDC, along Imphal-Ukhrul road no vehicular movement was seen and so as along the Imphal-Moreh road. Along Imphal-Moreh road people came out today and blocked the road at several places and in border town Moreh all business establishment down their shutters, educational institutions were closed and halted all normal activities. In Leimatak(Loktak Hydro electricity project) all activities like schools, offices did not function, according to the KDSC. Along Imphal-Dimapur road at Sadar Hills sector no movement could be seen as such in Saikul sub-divisional headquarters, the KSDC said.
“The KSDC will not cow down under any circumstance till the political movement for the Kuki is achieved. KSDC upholds the steps taken by the people for unitedly supporting the bandh and appeals the people to contiue supporting us till the end to expose the lackaidaiscal attitude of the government towards the Kukis,” KSDC leader George Guite said.
The KSDC has been demanding from both the state and the Central Governments to start peace parleys with two umbrella Kuki armed groups—The Kuki National Organisation (KNO) and United People’s Front (UPF)—which are signatories to the Suspension of Operations (SoO) involving both the Central and state Governments.
Recalling its movement, the Kuki State Demand Committee(KSDC) said on Monday that it was revived on November 2, 2010 based on the political movement of the Kuki National Assembly(KNA) for creation of Kuki State in the present day Manipur(First memorandum was submitted in 1960 to the then Prime Minister of India Late PT Jawaharlal Nehru).Before the advent of the British colonialists in the soil of the Kukis,the Kukis governed themselves under chiefs in their territories without outside interfence in their affairs.Since the merged of the Kuki territories with Kangleipak (Manipur) without the consent of the Kukis which added their suffering increases day in and day out.
KSDC has been leading the mass movement for separate Kuki State within the Constitution of India as Kukis are denied of their rights for life, security and development and peaceful governance of their affairs in their ancestral land even after India got independence and the attainment of statehood by Manipur.
“Failure on the part of the Government to protect the life and property leading to Kuki genocide in the 1990s , planting of landmine by killing and maining innocent Kuki villagers raping of women in the 2000s,” the KSDC pointed out while citing it as one of the factors to start for the demand of a separate Kuki State.
Another factor has been the denial of Sadar Hills as full-fleged district as it is dominated by the Kukis is tantamount to denial of development of the Kukis.
“The Government failed to address the governance of the tribals under Sixth scheduled which is a constitutional rights; the disparity/negligence of development in Kuki areas; the policy of the Government of alienating and annexation of tribal land through state mechanism; interference of the Government and its machineries in the affaire – de of the Kukis; the Government denied the rights of the tribals in Government employment by alienating the reservation policy; rendering the Hill Area committee non-functional which is a breach of the privileges’ of the tribals; denial of proportionate representation in the state assembly between the tribals and non- tribals.etc etc., are also some other factors that have prompted us to start this movement,” the KSDC stated.
The Kukis in present day Manipur is left with pamper and has no future for political as well as administration, it lamented.
“The KSDC therefore had led the Kuki people for their political survival leading to mass rally since its inception in 2010 followed by general strikes, public blockade, economic blockade etc.as the Government had failed to address the vexed Kuki political issue,” KSDC leader George Guite added.
“In 2012, the patience of the Kuki people was beyond control that led to the boycotting of ASEAN-INDIA car rally. As a face saving measure, the government of India through the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) had sent a letter aasuring the Kuki people that the political dialogue with Kuki underground groups would begin after the Winter session of the Parliament. Taking into confidence, the KSDC had decided to suspend the boycott but nothing concrete steps have been taken by the government of India and that had prompted the KSDC to blockade the BCIM car rally.The Government inspite of addressing the issue unleased their might by manhandling the peaceful demonstrators at various places in Imphal-Jiribam Road(NH-2) and imposition of curfew under Crpc 144 in Imphal-Moreh Road. It was ashame for the government as the car rally was welcomed with placards and black-flags at various places which exposed the hollowness of Indian democracy,” the KSDC recalled.
It then said, sensing the indifferent attitude of the Government towards the Kukis, the KSDC decided to resume the suspended public blockade and called general strike from 5 am of July 8 to 5 pm of July 9 in all the Kuki inhabited areas in Manipur and to be follwed by economic blockade for 48 hours.
The KSDC will continue the movement till the political solution for the Kukis inthe form of Kuki State is attained/achieved, the KDSC affirmed.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/kuki-bandh-affects-life/

National Youth Award 2011-12

President, Pranab Mukherjee presenting the National Youth Award 2011-2012 to Mrs. Soraishanm Taruni Devi, Manipur, at a function, at Rashtrapati Bhavan, in New Delhi on July 04, 2013.5

Mail News Service
New Delhi, July 4 : President Pranab Mukherjee today conferred the National Youth Award 2011-12 on 27 individuals and one organization at a function held at the historic Darbar Hall of the Rashtrapati Bhawan. The Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports Shri Jitendra Singh and several other dignitaries were also present on the occasion. It is for the first time the National Youth awards have been given by the President of India.
National Youth Awards, instituted in the year 1985 are conferred on youth each year who have demonstrably excelled in youth work in different fields of youth developmental activities and social service. The award carries a pure silver medal, a certificate and a cash prize of Rs. 40,000/- in case of individual awardee and Rs. 2.00 lakhs for voluntary organization. The selected young individuals are expected to possess leadership qualities and use them in successfully carrying out voluntary activities in the field of Youth Development. This award is a source of encouragement to the awardees, as well as an example and catalyst to others in future. Selection of Awardees is first made at State level and then at National level. At the National level, a Screening Committee headed by the Joint Secretary scrutinizes the proposals recommended by the State Govt./UT administration at first. These screened proposals are thereafter placed before the Central Selection Committee headed either by the Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports or Secretary, Youth Affairs that makes the final selection of youth awardees. The Central Selection Committee may, at its discretion, consider on merits, individuals or youth organizations not recommended by a State Government/UT, for the Award.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/national-youth-award-2011-12/

Bandh called to protest killing of NSCN (K) cadres

Burning of effigies of 10 AR personnel in protest against the Shonglong incident.

Imphal, July 4 NNN: A public meeting held today at Noney bazaar in Manipur’s Tamenglong district related to the recent killing of six NSCN-K militants decided to call a 24-hour total bandh in the Zeliangrong tribe majority areas of the North Eastern states including Manipur beginning July 8 midnight.
The meet participated by hundreds of people from different walks of life of the district also called for immediate justice to the families of the victims and an independent inquiry into the incident by instituting an impartial Special Investigation Team (SIT) to book the security personnel under the law of the land.
The 10 Assam Rifles had claimed that the six NSCN-K militants were gunned down in an encounter in Shonglong village about 50 km from Noney bazaar on June 22.
At the same time, the meet urged the Government of India to expedite the Indo-Naga peace talks to resolve the vexed Naga political problem at the earliest.
All the AR posts should be removed from the entire Naga milieu, most of the speakers demanded.
The participants afterward burned effigies of Col Ajay Sharma of 10 AR and Major Gagan in protest against the Shonglong incident.
The public meeting was jointly organised by Zeliangrong Baudi, Manipur (ZBM), All Zeliangrong Students’ Union (AZSU), Zeliangrong Youth Front (ZYF) and Zeliangrong Students’ Union, Manipur (ZSUM).
The six NSCN-K militants killed in the reported gunbattle were Chujanglung Dangmei, Leikampao Thaimei, ST Moningam Anal, Majadi Panmei, Ngoubui Newmai and Laban Rongmei.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/bandh-called-to-protest-killing-of-nscn-k-cadres/

Tangkhul students celebrate first anniversary

New Delhi, July 2 NNN: The Tangkhul Shanao Long, Delhi (TSLD) celebrated its 1st Anniversary on June 29 at Constitution Club, New Delhi.
The gathering saw large attendance of students, working professionals, and elders of the community residing in Delhi. Mrs. Masophy Nakhedei, 1st President of Tangkhul Shanao Long (TSL) graced the occasion as chief guest, while Mrs. Pakahao Muivah was the guest of honour.
Masophy Nakhedei exhorted the women to stand united in facing the challenges. She also threw a challenge that women organizations like TSLD stand as a model in social services.
Leaders of various organizations and student bodies also participated in TSLD’s celebration. In a solidarity message by Tangkhul Katamnao Long, Delhi (TKLD) President Mr. Thothuingam Shinglai extended cooperation to work together in days to come in addressing issues like gender violence and discriminations in the city. The general secretary of All Tribal Students Union, Manipur (ATSUM) Vareiyo Shatsang congratulated the TSLD for achieving this much in one year time what other organizations have only been wishing for a long time. Their contribution towards fighting against child trafficking and violence against women has already been etched in the history.
Noted artist from Manipur Guru Rewben Mashangva took back the audience to their native place with his hit songs such as Chonkhom Philava and Saharwon Kapaiwon. Minute of Decay, the only Tangkhul girl band mesmerized the members present with their groovy songs and showed that they are ready to take the musical center stage in the region. The celebration witness violin rendition by Ranthing Raleng & Nimnim Ningshen, magical performance from Punjab (Mohammapur & Safdarjung Shanao Long) and Folk dance performance by the FEELS (Fraternity of East Eyes Line Soceity) transported the audience to the days of yore. The showstopper was fashion parade by young Tangkhul belles. Designer Jezreel Vashum & Timeless T.O.G.S. designed the fused traditional attire of the show.
Expressing her gratitude to people who have supported the organization through thick and thin the TSLD chairperson Felicita Shongvah reaffirmed their commitment to continue their fight against all social vices.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/tangkhul-students-celebrate-first-anniversary/

Twin strike affects life

Imphal Jul 1 MNS UNA : A 24-hour bandh called by a local joint action committee formed in connection raping of a student in Thoubal’s Yairipok partially disturbed normal life .
Inter-district buses suspended their service for the day besides streets at headquarters of the four districts wore deserted looks.
Almost all the educational institutions, shops and other establishments remained close for the day in these districts.
No untoward incident was reported during the bandh hour except reports of bandh supporters preventing vehicular movement on the streets at some places. It concluded at 6 pm.
No untoward incident is reported during the bandh called in protest against the kidnapping & raping of Arishma, a student by one Md Taj Khan after she was kidnapped from the campus of the Yairipok Universal College where she went to obtain admission form on June 19.
The victim was kidnapped and was allegedly rape. After which she was dropped her in her home in the midnight.
The bandh called by the JAC has affected normal life in Yairipok area of Thoubal district, lthough, essential services like electricity, water supply, press media, medicals, religious activities etc are exempted from the ambit of the general strike.
On the other hand, normal vehicular movement along the Imphal-Mao section of NH-2 was totally disturbed for the day owing to highway blockade called in protest against murder of a auto-driver hailing from Imphal’s Mantripukhri
A sit in protest was staged at Mantri Pukhri Bazaar community hall by the locals of the area, condemning the killing of one Laishangbam Deben, an auto-rickshaw driver who was found dead near water reservoir at Khuman Lampak on Sunday.
Placards with words like ‘Punish the culprits involved in killing Deben, ‘Do not repeat such act in the future’ etc. were displayed at the protest sides besides imposing bandh on NH-39 from 1 pm today till 6 pm of tomorrow.
The JAC said that the family of Deben would not receive the dead body until the culprits involved were booked and award befitting punishments.
Normal life in Naga dominated hill districts of Manipur was Monday paralysed owing to the 12-hour bandh imposed by (ANSAM) showing solidarity to the Nagaland based Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) sponsored bandh in Nagaland.
Owing to the 12-hour bandh of the ANSAM which commenced from this morning at 6 am, normal life in Senapati, Ukhrul, Tamenglong and part of Chandel districts was hit.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/twin-strike-affects-life/

Hideout busted

Arms and ammunitions recovered from Moirangkhunou

Troop of Red Shield Division busted a temporary hideout being used by militants near Moirang Khunao working on input and intercepts for over
two months about targeting Security Forces by troops by militants in areas of Kumbi, Moirang, Sugnu and Dampi. Red Shield Division launched an operation in a Pat area adjacent to Moirang Khunao which led to recovery of four AK 47 rifles, sixteen magazines, 575 rounds of AK 47, five radio sets, large quantity of explosives including grenades, assorted ammunition of other weapons and w

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/hideout-busted/

FPAI and MDS Chargers match at Khuman Lampak on Sunday. FPAI won 1-0

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/fpai-and-mds-chargers-match-at-khuman-lampak-on-sunday-fpai-won-1-0/

Get together of sister tribes of Manipur

Imphal, June 29 NNN : The first get-together function of some ‘sister tribes’ of Manipur was organised at Koirengei, Imphal West under the aegis of the Thadou Students’ Association (TSA), general headquarters on Saturday.
During the function, the participants reaffirmed the common brotherhood and solemnly pledged to work hand in hand in happiness and grief.
At the first get-together event, which will be held biannually, took several resolutions. The next get-together function will be held in Churachandpur district, they agreed.
It was attended by president of Siamsin Pawlpi (Paite tribe students), general headquarters, president of Tedim Chin Students’ Association (Chin tribe students), General Headquarters, president of Gangte Students’ Organisation (Gangte Tribe Students), General Headquarters, president of Thadou Students’ Association, general headquarters and president of Aimol Students’ Association, general headquarters. The participants also appealed to all those who could not present in the get-together function to take part in its next edition.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/get-together-of-sister-tribes-of-manipur/

New Naga group, MNPF formed

Members of the newly formed MNPF

Mail News Service
Imphal, June 28 : The Manipur Naga People’s Front (MNPF ) a Manipur based revolutionary group operating in Manipur has been formed. Thomas Numai, Dy. Publicity Secretary today announced that a general body meeting was held on 11th March, 2013 and it was decided to dissolve ,Manipur Naga Revolutionary Front(MNRF)and United Naga People’s Council (UNPC) and formed a New Organization under the name and style the “Manipur Naga People’s Front (MNPF).
It announced that John Francis Kashung will be the President, Wilson Tao , General Secretary, Pairson Shily, Home Secretary, Isaac Shang, Finance Secy, Jack Kapso, Orgn Secy, Thomas Numai , Dy Finance and Pub Secy and Ahao Jajo , Dy Defence Secy.
The MNPF/MNPA was formed after minutely studying the shaky condition of the present Naga revolutionaries.
It said. “Time has come for us to struggle together to achieved our common goal by surrendering one’s own greedy interest and give room to accommodate other parallel bodies.
We encompass all parties for a united struggle which was our loud and clear message. We shall not demoralised our political vision by remaining aloof lik e that of the organizations under cease – fire whose interest is either higher autonomy or economic package.
Their submissive policy at the cost of the people’s blood and sweat has demoralized the revolutionary spirit, thereby loosing the confidence of the people at large. If forgotten that success is only achieved through people, we will hardly find a place in the society. Taking serious note on the importance of the people, the Manipur Naga People’s Front (MNPF) has adopted its motto as “For the People”. Change your attitude as an important factor in social transformation.Its Aim and Object are as follows:-
(i) Restore our birth right i.e. Sovereignty and Self Determination.
(ii) To bridge the gap of all the revolutionary groups of Our Region, i e Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Manipur, Nagaland and Tripura.
(iii) Remove Social and Economic disparity amongst different communities.
(iv) Strengthen cohesion and the revolutionary unity for a strong and vibrant federal administrative system.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/new-naga-group-mnpf-formed/

Dy CM condemns killing of innocent people

Protests held at Uripok against bomb blast on Thursday night

Mail News Service
Imphal, June 28 : Gaikhangam, Dy Chief Minister today informed the House that two persons died and four others sustained injuries in a bomb blast last night at Uripok Tourangbam Leikai. He said immediately after the incident the SP, Imphal rushed to the spot and Manipur Police personnel are probing into the matter.
After the end of the session Gaikhangam addressed the media and said that the two persons who died were staying in a rent house. Both the deceased were from Bihar. One of the deceased used to repair electronic goods and there was no possibility of throwing a bomb from outside Gaikhangam said. It may be possible that a bomb was planted inside an electronic item which was given for repair he added.
The matter would be discussed by the State Cabinet later he assured. All possible assistance will be given to the victims he said. People living on rents should not be alarmed by the incident and we all should condemn killings of innocent people he further said.
A sit in protesting against the bomb blast which claimed two lives and injuring five at Uripok Tourangbam Leikai last night around 8 p.m. was held today.
Meira Paibi of the area took part in the protest. The owner of the rented house Ningthoujam Priyosakhi said, the concerned person should clarify in connection with the incident.
The protesters hold placards which read like don’t use arms in crowded areas, what is the motive of killing people who will one day die etc.
Police quoting local sources said that suspects lobbed the hand grenade inside the rented room staying by non-locals. At the time of explosion, six persons were sitting together at the rented room.
The deceased were identified as Rohit Kumar Das (28) and Ranjan Mahato (24). They succumbed to multiple splinter injuries at RIMS where they were rushed by the neighbours.
The other three injured non-locals, identified as Shikumar Das (22), Surendra Das (50), and Vijay Kumar Das (24). All were from Bihar. Begu Sarai and others, were in critical conditions. One of them has been referred to Shija hospital after his condition became critical. Manipur deputy chief minister Gaikhangam who is also in-charge of thestate home department along with local MLA of Uripok assembly constituency L Nandakumar today paid a visit to the injured victims at the hospitals and assured all assistance that could be provided to the blast victims.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/dy-cm-condemns-killing-of-innocent-people/

Full military honour to martyr

Military honours given to martyr

MNS: The mortal remain of Sepoy John Lalumi Vaiphei of 35 Rashtriya Rifles, who made the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty while fighting terrorist in Jammu & Kashmir on 24
Jun 13 was accorded full military honours on arrival at Imphal airport on 27 Jun 13. The mortal remain of the brave solider were then brought to his native village, Belam Veng in
Churachandpur district under a military escort. Befitting military tributes as per the traditions of the Indian Army were offered to the martyr amidst a huge gathering which included
relatives, friends, military and civil dignitaries. A dedicated and committed soldier, Sepoy John Lalumi Vaiphei was recruited into The 1st Battalion, Assam Regiment in 2008 and was
later deputed to 35 Rastriya Rifles where he made the supreme sacrifice for the Nation. He is survived by his wife Mrs Chingzozam. This martyrdom and supreme sacrifice made by
the brave soldier will serve an inspiration to youths of the entire region to serve their motherland with honour.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/full-military-honour-to-martyr/

Reminiscence of my artist friend

By Jyaneswar Laishram
Imphal: Living next door for more than a decade as a friendly neighbour and brought up together playing cricket on the same old playgrounds around Bishenpur town in Manipur, I know Dilip Oinam more than what his normal friends do. He spent his boyhood in the town where his mother worked in a hospital and his father used to teach English in a school located in the nearby town of Nambol where both of them (his parents) were hailed from. Today, Dilip stays in New Delhi with his wife and the rest of the family are settled in Imphal.
I still remember him as a young boy who rather fond of art since his younger years. I often noticed a touch of ‘fine art’ in him when he developed interest in painting during his early teens. He started painting landscapes while all his other painter friends in the town were busy stroking their brushes on portraits of movie actors, patriots and other celebrities. His works captured a true essence of the natural scenes which he portrayed without a glitch.
When Dilip first came to Delhi in 2001 for further study at Delhi College of Art after a brief BFA at Indira Kala Sangeet Vishwa Vidyalaya in Kheragarh (Chattishgarh), he gave me a painting of a misty mountain in which he gracefully captured a panorama of semi-silhouetted Laimaton Hill hiding its top in a thick blanket of cotton cloud erupted on an evening in Bishenpur after a mid-summer shower. Laimaton Hill standing massive in the western horizon at a distance of around a couple of kilometers from our Kuthi Leikai colony enhances Bishenpur’s landscape to inspire the budding artists like Dilip for some nature aquarelles. Unfortunately I have lost the painting of Laimaton Hill. I don’t know whether it was stolen or misplaced by moving men when we shifted to a new house in Delhi in 2006. But the hunt is still on to trace the lost magnum opus!
Wherever he goes
Bishenpur, Imphal, Kheragarh, New Delhi… Dilip has been to places where the wind of his art follows. Overall themes and narratives in his works keep changing wherever he roams from one place to another. His romancing the hilly terrains of Bishenpur blew temporarily out of his easel when he stayed for one and a half years in Kheragarh. Subjects of his paintings during his short Kheragarh days eventually revolved around lonely railway tracks, village hovels, poor farmers he frequently encountered while strolling down the secluded hot and dry plain of rural north India. But he often mentioned about hidden charm which he caught and bought out of the heat and dust of the region.
A big turn in Dilip’s works took place when he started exhibiting at some leading art galleries around Delhi after his BFA at Delhi College of Art, New Delhi. His acrylics on canvas began to capture magical impressions revolving around unique characters and objects related to folklores and mythologies. His new angles pulled attentions of a horde of collectors rushing from different overseas countries like the USA, Australia, Egypt, France, South Korea, just to tick a few.
All leading art galleries and popular venues around Delhi are where Dilip’s works are often found on display. And the latest showcase will be at ‘Strokes From The East’— a three-day exhibition by The Kolor Box— unveiling on June 28 at Convention Foyer of India Habitat Centre, New Delhi.
Unique elements
Many critics say Dilip’s high dramas and vibrant strokes of acrylics on canvas effectively do justice to his themes and narratives. Earthy, bold reds and coppery browns lending shapes and forms to iconic figures, whether it could be a child or a woman solidly holding grounds, are the most common portrayals seen in most of Dilip’s works.
Another interesting point which many appreciators point out in Dilip’s works is the inhibition of a whole complex of meanings like multi-layered and painstaking treatments which further enhance the overall elements of drama in his acrylics on canvas. Such fuss is considerably the style which he creates so originally in most of his works.
If you want to catch him ‘live’, just drop in at Convention Foyer of India Habitat Centre, New Delhi where The Kolor Box will flaunt the artist’s newest stokes at Strokes From The East from June 28-30, 2013!

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/reminiscence-of-my-artist-friend/

Political leaders of north east must go with a vision for future of the region: Odisha Governor

Manipur Information Centre
New Delhi, June 22: Odisha Governor S. C. Jamir today said that the people of the North East India should have alertness with the forthcoming developmental changes which would happen in the region under the ‘Look East Policy’.
He was speaking as an elder of the North East India while launching an evening English newspaper in tabloid size entitled ‘Access North East’ at the YWCA auditorium, Ashoka Road here this evening.
He appealed to the political leaders of the North East India to go with a vision for the future of the region. The time would come when the people of both ASEAN countries and Indian mainland accessed to the region with the emergence of globalization and economic integration under the ‘Look East policy’. There may happen many things including inter marriage of the people of the North East and the South East Asian Nations. “We must caution that we are not crushed by the outside forces in cultural aspects, economic aspects and civilization aspects.” he stated.
Jamir congratulated Suvendu Roy Chawdhury, the publisher, editor and owner of the Access North East for his bold step of publishing a newspaper meant for the people of North East India at the National capital Delhi .
Roy Chawdhury, who was the editor and owner of the North East News Agency which served the people since 1997, said, “ The main objective of the newspaper is to act as a bridge between the North- East and the rest of the country. It will bring news and development from home to the people of North East Region living outside the region in places like Delhi , Mumbai, Pune etc. At the same time it will also open a dedicated window in the farthest corners of the region to those in the rest of the country interested in knowing the truth about the beautiful region”. The newspaper will spread its wings in due course to Mumbai, Pune, Bangalore , Dehradun and Kolkata, he added.
The inaugural issue carried the articles like ‘ Look East Policy and NE ‘ by Probir Pramanik, ‘A Dedicated Gandhian Forgotten’ by Abdul Gani, ‘Traditional Media and Manipuri Culture’ by Meghachandra Kongbam. ‘Bane of NE Power Shock’ by Irfan Khondker, ‘ Assam’s Shame’ by Neelakshi Bordoloi, ‘Living on the Edge’ by Zodin Sanga , ‘Fading Away’ by Sikha Jyoti Saikia , ‘Mineral Wealth to Propel Nagaland’ and ‘On the Top of the World’.
Printed at glossy paper with colour, the newpaper has eight pages and costs Rs. Five per copy.

Rescue works in full swing as bad weather predicted for next 48 hours

Rescue and relief operations by Armed forces, at Gauri Kund, in Kedarnath valley

Mail News Service
New Delhi, June 22 : A series of major breakthroughs were achieved by the Army and the Indian Air Force today, catalyzing thereby, the rescue and relief operations in some of the worst flash- flood affected areas of Uttarakhand.
All the 500 people stranded in and around Gangotri have now been evacuated. Barring 25 people, Gagariya on the Hemkund axis has been evacuated. Weather permitting the balance 25 will be evacuated at the earliest. Army troops, skilled in mountain rescue operations, have established contact with more than 1000 persons stranded in mountain folds in Jungle Chatti between Gauri Kund and Rambara on the Kedarnath axis.
Till reports last came in, Army helicopters have evacuated 350 people so far and search operations are continuing. Food and medicines have also been dropped. Two medical teams have now been established at Gauri Kund to treat patients. Besides, a composite relief staging area has been opened at Gauri Kund providing food, water and medicines to the people.
Early in the morning today, dedicated Army teams worked tirelessly to prepare a helipad at Jungle Chatti which facilitated evacuation from one of the most dangerous and inaccessible areas of Kedar valley. This helipad is now being improved to facilitate landing of Dhruv helicopters. Army also constructed two helipads at Gauri Kund.
Army created history when a heli-bridge was created at Govind Ghat to transport pilgrims across the Alaknanda River. Helicopters did shuttle service from either banks of the river as the temporary crossing made earlier had collapsed.
Army today operationalised the foot track between Govind Ghat and Lambagar on Badrinath road. Another column conducting road clearing operations from Badrinath to Lambagar successfully launched a foot bridge over Alaknanda this evening, thus opening the foot route from Badrinath to Govindghat. Road Govindghat to Joshimath is open to vehicular traffic.
Army achieved another milestone on Gangotri axis. All stranded people in Gangotri have been evacuated. Road is now open for light vehicles from Gangotri to Harsil. Due to a series of landslides between Harsil and Uttarkashi, Army is now moving people using ‘Staging Area’ concept. Across all landslides, people are being made to cross on foot and in between any two landslides, vehicles are being used. Two staging areas at Sukhi and Gangnani have been established to provide food and medicines to evacuated people.
Army column reached Barkot on Yamunotri axis today. The column would start evacuating people from Yamunotri by tomorrow. As per the latest data, approximately 700 people are at Yamunotri.
In Tawaghat – Dharchula axis in Pithoragarh district, Army is in the process of establishing link up with approximately 1000 people in Sobala valley and medical teams and food has already been sent there today. Army column evacuated all 45 children who were stranded at Pindari glacier in Bageshwar district. Search operations are on to link up with 10 to 12 people stranded on Sunderdhunga glacier.
Eight columns of Army have also been deployed in 08 districts of North Western UP. 2500 people have been evacuated to safer places in Pilibhit district and 260 people have been moved to safer places near Palwal.
Army has so far deployed 19 medical teams in Uttarakhand with each team led by a doctor. 45 satellite phones have also been deployed in various parts of the state to enable stranded people to contact their families. More than 2300 people used Army communication facilities to talk to their loved ones at home.
Army so far has evacuated 18,500 people and deployed 10,000 soldiers for rescue and relief operations.
In a very innovative, yet daring move, the IAF today established an aviation fuel supply bridge at Dharasu to give greater impetus to rescue operations which were severely restricted due to non availability of aviation fuel.
The first C 130J aircraft landed at Dharasu (a landing ground only 1300 meters long) in the early morning today for the first time despite inclement weather. On landing the aircraft defueled 8000 litres of fuel into an empty bowser which was airlifted yesterday from Sarsawa by a Mi 26 helicopter. With the availability of additional fuel now at Dharasu, the extraction, evacuation and rescue operations have picked up pace and the available helicopters are now able to make more number of trips.
Apart from the carrying fuel to Dharasu, the first C130 J on its return trip carried about 40 and the second about 100 injured and stranded pilgrims to the safer plains of Air Force Station Hindan. An emergency medical centre has been set up at Air Force Station Hindan for the medical check-up of all the arriving tourists for immediate attention.
The first two C 130J aircraft carried fuel to Dharasu while the third is carrying a Medical team of the IAF to attend to sick people at Dharasu itself before they are moved out to safer place.
Having paved the way for fixed wing aircraft landing at Dharasu, the IAF pressed its An 32 aircraft also into action. These aircraft are carrying Disaster Communication equipment vehicle, some more aviation fuel, Sudan pumps for refueling the helicopters and 4200 kgs of bridging equipment of BRO. The heavy lift Mi 26 helicopter will also be airlifting the heavy equipment of BRO to facilitate road repair and construction work.
While the fuel bridging has given impetus to rescue operations, increased flying activity in the narrow valleys is posing a new challenge to traffic management and safe flying. IAF has inducted additional personnel to ensure smooth planning, coordination and execution of flying operations, be it Air Force, Army or civilian operators.
Today since morning, till 3 o’clock in the afternoon, the IAF has flown about 149 sorties in which 26700 kgs of load and 1355 passengers were airlifted.
In all, the IAF towards ‘Op Rahat’, has flown 768 sorties in which 103350 kgs of load has been dropped/landed and 5347 passengers airlifted. The IAF is committed to using all the available resources to speed up the rescue operations, especially in the face of bad weather forecast by the Indian Met Department in next 36 to 48 hours.

Development photographs attract visitors at Moirang

Photo exhibition organised by DAVP at Moirang

Mail News Service
Imphal, June 22 : Aimed at creating mass awareness about the centrally-sponsored schemes in Manipur, an 8-day photo exhibition on the theme ‘Development Initiatives in North East’ kick-off saturday at Moirang Multipurpose Higher Secondary School. The exhibition which would continue till June 29 is being organized by the Field Exhibition Office, Directorate of Advertising & Visual Publicity (DAVP), Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, Government of India, Imphal.
Setting the campaign into motion, S Kumar Singh, Principal, Moirang Multipurpose Higher Secondary School, who grace the occasion as Chief Guest exhorted the students and public of the area to advantage of the program. He said that visual being a strong medium of communication, the exhibition would be beneficial for everyone who whish to know and understand the program and policies of the Government of India.
Earlier, proposing the key-note address, Dr Gin Gangte, IIS, Field Exhibition Officer, DAVP, Imphal said that the aims of exhibition is to disseminate information about the various development projects taken up by the Government of India.
A total of 130 photographs are on display as part of the 8-day long campaign.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/development-photographs-attract-visitors-at-moirang/