press release – Page 22

MNP condemns the statement by BJP Manipur in-charge

IMPHAL, November 5: Meitei Nationalist Party (MNP) has condemned the statement by BJP Manipur in-charge, Prahlad Patel, which was published in Sangai Express on November 3, said a press release

IMPHAL, November 5: Meitei Nationalist Party (MNP) has condemned the statement by BJP Manipur in-charge, Prahlad Patel, which was published in Sangai Express on November 3, said a press release by MNP.

It said, BJP leaders are used to delivering the same dialogue about the inquiry to be constituted on the scams of Manipur Government, only if the bye-election of the two Assembly Constituencies of Manipur are won by BJP, which was said by Prakash Javdekar during election of 2014 and the same statement was made by Prahlad Patel again.

The whole value of dialogue will be decreased after the election is defeated, said the press release.

The press release has stated that the over-spoken statement by leaders must be condemned by the people as the leaders are trying to hook their votes with false promises.

MNP is a body for observing the violent activities during election hours as well as in the normal course of administration for the welfare of people, said the press release.

Sand Sculpture in solidarity with Irom Sharmila’s struggle for Repeal AFSPA

CUTTACK, November 4: A sand sculpture in solidarity with Irom Sharmila’s struggle for Repeal AFSPA was made by famous sand artist Himanshu Shekhar Parida at Cuttack, Orrisa. The sand sculpture

CUTTACK, November 4: A sand sculpture in solidarity with Irom Sharmila’s struggle for Repeal AFSPA was made by famous sand artist Himanshu Shekhar Parida at Cuttack, Orrisa. The sand sculpture was made on the call of Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign where the campaign is observing a nationwide protest to mark 15 years of hunger protest by Irom Sharmila.

Himanshu is a young artist and trained in fine arts with his passion in sand sculptures. He is also associated with various voluntary activities for social cause and has volunteered for Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign.

Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign is continuously raising its voice to repeal AFSPA from North East and J&K since last many years. On November 1 and November 2, SSSC along with other organisations also organised a Convention on Repeal AFSPA at New Delhi and various other protests at many other cities.

On the recent decision of Meghalaya High Court where the court directs Centre to impose AFSPA on Garo Hills, SSSC appealed all civil society organisations and political leaders to come forward and to appeal to court to review its directions and not to make common people victims of state violence with unchecked and unlimited powers of AFSPA.

Garo Hills must come forward to appeal not to impose AFSPA

3 NOV 2015, New Delhi With the recent announcement of Meghalaya High Court to direct Centre to impose AFSPA in the Garo Hills area is very unfortunate. Save Sharmila Solidarity

3 NOV 2015, New Delhi

With the recent announcement of Meghalaya High Court to direct Centre to impose AFSPA in the Garo Hills area is very unfortunate. Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign, with due respect to honorable high court of Meghalaya, appeals the high court to review its decision. SSSC also appeals to centre, not to impose AFSPA at any other place and to avoid making common people victims of such harsh laws.

SSSC also see that it is the same time when numerous protests and events were going on in India and abroad to mark 15 years of heroic struggle of Irom Sharmila, it should also be noted that it is 15th anniversary of Malom massacre where justice has not been delivered till yet. Not only these, but even many other cases are still under jurisdiction of law and waiting for justice in differenmt courts of North East as well as in Supreme Court. All these cases tell a history of atrocities that had happened in the veil of AFSPA because of unchecked unlimited powers.

SSSC believe that though the concerns are genuine, but not the remedy. imposing AFSPA can have more grave effects on the situation. At present, common population is affected with anti-state insurgencies, but with imposing this act, there is a possibility of happening the same , though may be lesser ways, by centrally deployed forces.

Convener of Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign, Ravi Nitesh said ‘ We also appeal to high court that it must ask to State of Meghalaya to take responsibilities in more serious ways and to take action in this regard through direction to state government to deploy more numbers of security personals as well as to resolve the issues through all possible ways. On the other hand, we also appeal that even if situation seems out of control, paramilitary forces should be first choice instead of having full deployment of army with an act like AFSPA. We also appeal common people and peoples’ representatives, local political leaders and civil society organisations to come forward to appeal for the same.’

Solidarity to Irom Sharmila’s 15 years hunger strike against AFSPA

I am obliged to serve for the just cause of those who would like to live without being killed. I am stubborn and firmed with this belief. My cry for

I am obliged to serve for the just cause of those who would like to live without being killed. I am stubborn and firmed with this belief. My cry for justice, like a child’s cry to its parents, is being repeatedly forwarded to the leaders and policy makers who would at present not listen to my prayers. I firmly believe that the issues that I raised are not meant to be dealt with sticks. I would like to see that the root cause of my prayer is being discovered and addressed with softer and healing touch. I shall never give up my stand without fulfilling my demand.

Excerpt from the Statement of Sharmila
Jantar Mantar, Delhi, 6 October 2006

Comes the 5^th of November 2015; it adds another year to Irom Sharmila’s non-violent fight for justice against the culture of impunity enjoyed by the Indian army under the provisions of the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (1958). In the ‘Indian sub-continent’ where the ruling regime indulges in crimes against humanity and where Gandhian Ahimsa doesn’t hold the grounds, though eulogizing reminiscence of anti-colonial Satyagraha prevails; Sharmila uses her body as the weapon in the fight for justice and becomes a political prisoner. To recall, the immediate spark of this steadfast was the Malom massacre of 2^nd November 2000 that killed ten innocent lives by the armed forces in Manipur.

The Armed Forces Special Powers Act is a notorious instrument of State terrorism, humiliations, prolonged detentions, tortures, killings, destructions, traumas, deprivations and disturbances; the logical culmination is unrestraint widespread culture of impunity by the law enforcing forces. This Act serves the agenda of creating a category of suspects and ‘disturbed areas’ to be oppressed at will; to suppress democratic voices against oppressive political regimes, exploitative market forces and destructive projects. The Act is symptomatic of an undeclared war trajectory superimposed on a category of subjected peoples, whose political aspirations and democratic rights are marginalized in the name of India’s security. The brutality of the colonial rule that British India had faced in the 1940s; identify it with any political jargon, we are today experiencing it in the ‘disturbed areas’.

Section 1 of AFSPA empowers the Governor of a State or the Government of India to construe any area or territory as disturbed or dangerous, thereby empowering any commissioned officer, warrant officer, non-commissioned officer or any other person of equivalent rank in the Armed Forces to exercise powers prescribed by AFSPA. Section 4 of the Act empowers the concerned officer to ‘suspect’ and consequently act on ‘his’ suspicion to arrest anyone without warrant, to search any premise without warrant, destroy, and “fire upon or otherwise use force, even to the causing of death, against any person who is acting in contravention of any law or order for the time being in the disturbed area prohibiting the assembly of five or more persons or the carrying of weapons or of things capable of being used as weapons or firearms, ammunition or explosive substances.” Section 5 of the Act empowers the concerned officer to detain any arrested person with the least possible delay and does not stipulate any time frame of the detention. Section 6 of the Act defends guilty personnel as “no prosecution, suit or legal proceeding shall be instituted, except with the previous sanction of the Government of India against any person in respect of anything done or purported to be done in exercise of the powers conferred by this Act.

Fifteen years of Sharmila’s fasting and political imprisonment, victim peoples’ protests, and ‘institutional’ recommendations from within India and beyond have done lots of symbolic damages to the legitimacy of AFSPA. However, the State holds on AFSPA dearly, as it act as a surrogate in militarily engagement with certain political conflicts arising out of the neoliberal structural constraints. At the same time, the agencies such as the military establishment and the corrupt personnel operating on the ground uphold AFSPA, in the name of counter insurgency, as it serves certain extra-institutional personal interests. The struggle against AFSPA, therefore, remains relevant inasmuch as it targets not only the instrument of oppression but also the regime in power that suppresses democratic rights. In this context, Sharmila’s fifteen years individual steadfast is commendable as it contributes to the collective struggle for justice and democratic rights. We express solidarity to the sky lantern demonstration against AFSPA to be organized by the Manipur Students’ Association Delhi on 5^th November, 2015.

All Naga Student’s Association – Press Release on Sadar Hill

The passing of the three legally flawed and controversial Bills―the Protection of Manipur People Bill 2015; Manipur Land Revenue and Land Reforms (seventh amendment) Bill 2015; and Manipur Shops and

The passing of the three legally flawed and controversial Bills?the Protection of Manipur People Bill 2015; Manipur Land Revenue and Land Reforms (seventh amendment) Bill 2015; and Manipur Shops and Establishment (second amendment) Bill 2015)?provided a good reason for the indigenous/tribal peoples of Manipur to come together and stand up for their just cause. The Bills are bias and not motivated by universal human rights and democratic principles. It is for this reason that the indigenous/tribal peoples in Manipur arose in solidarity for their just cause.

The indigenous/tribal organizations and communities have emerged as having the capacity to unite for a right cause. However, one must not forget that having come together is only the beginning of a journey to address the historically rooted injustices and a search for peaceful co-existence firmly founded on a vision for just-peace. This implies that coming together of indigenous/tribal peoples in Manipur must translate into a solidarity movement guided by their quest for truth and justice. No movement can solidify overnight and no movement can withstand divisive forces of a state if it is not driven by their thirst for truth and justice. A solidarity movement can only emerge victorious if it is clear of the principles it must be founded upon. It is only then that a solidarity movement will be able to establish a mutually acceptable fair terms of political and social cooperation.

True healing of past wounds can occur only in a genuine solidarity movement firmly grounded on universal principles of human rights and humanity. It is only through a solidarity movement that one can build up common sympathies and begin to truly share their pains and pride, or even regrets together. And transform their histories of conflict into one of mutual understanding and social and political cooperation. This is what will propel indigenous/tribal peoples in Manipur to a higher ground of peace and justice. Reverting to positions and demands that are fragmented and not based on democratic principles and of justice for all will not deliver us from the cycle of conflict sustained by the state.

On this account, All Naga Students’ Association Manipur (ANSAM) appeals to all the indigenous/tribal organizations and communities to be vigilant of the divisive forces and be conscious of the basis for a solidarity movement. The demand for a full-fledged Sardar Hills District is not based on the principles of justice for all and laws of nations. It will only reopen the wounds of the past and will become a thorn in the flesh of our solidarity movement. Because the creation of a full-fledged Sardar Hills District is not a political solution and the political future of our Kuki brothers and sisters. The need of the hour is to focus on strengthening and solidifying our solidarity movement for our common future.

ANSAM would also like to remind the government of Manipur of the various Memorandum of Understandings (MoUs) signed between ANSAM, NSF (Naga Students’ Federation) and other Naga organizations (in 1981, 1992, 1996 and 1998) with regard to the creation of a full-fledged Sardar Hills District. Abrogation of the MoUs will be viewed with all seriousness and as a continuing ploy of the state to weaken the indigenous/tribal organizations and communities’ solidarity.

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

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

PRESS RELEASE

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

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

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

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

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

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

Assam Rifles apprehends a PREPAK member

IMPHAL, October 26: Troops of the 2 Assam Rifles of 9 Sector Assam Rifles under the aegis of HQ IGAR (South) along with Thoubal Police Commandos apprehended an over ground

IMPHAL, October 26: Troops of the 2 Assam Rifles of 9 Sector Assam Rifles under the aegis of HQ IGAR (South) along with Thoubal Police Commandos apprehended an over ground worker of PREPAK in a joint operation in general area Thoubal Bazaar on October 24, said a press release by PRO, IGAR (South).

It said, the person was identified as Asem Sarat Singh, 50, son of (Late) A Nitai Singh of Thoubal Awang Leikai and he revealed that he has been extorting money from schools, colleges and brick kilns at Thoubal district under the instruction of Malem, who is presently residing at Myanmar.

The apprehended person has been handed over to Thoubal Police Station, said the press release.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/10/assam-rifles-apprehends-a-prepak-member/

Assam Rifles dedicates a Church in the heart of Molcham village

IMPHAL, October 26: 4 Assam Regiment of 26 Sector Assam Rifles under the aegis of HQ IGAR (South) dedicated a Church in the heart of Molcham village on October 23,

4 Assam Regiment dedicated a Church at Molcham in the heart of village on 23 Oct 2015

The Church dedicated by Assam Rifles at Molcham village

IMPHAL, October 26: 4 Assam Regiment of 26 Sector Assam Rifles under the aegis of HQ IGAR (South) dedicated a Church in the heart of Molcham village on October 23, said a press release by PRO, IGAR (South).

It said, the Church was constructed by the troops of 4 the Assam Regiment using local resources for the locals to offer Sunday mass prayer as well as to provide a platform for the security forces and the locals to interact regularly.

The locals expressed their gratitude to Assam Regiment for being with them in day to day cultural activity, said the press release.

Global Shapers organizes Free Eye Camp

IMPHAL, October 26: As one of the first pilot projects in its venture towards shaping a better life for the people, the Global Shapers Community: Imphal hub in association with

IMPHAL, October 26: As one of the first pilot projects in its venture towards shaping a better life for the people, the Global Shapers Community: Imphal hub in association with Iboyaima Hospital and Research Centre, took up a one day Free Eye Camp cum Surgery for patients on October 18 and October 23, at Ningthoukhong, said a press release.

It said, the camp was assisted by some of the best opthalmologist along with medicine specialist, and there was an overwhelming turn out of over 200 patients in 3 hours, in which overall 22 patients were identified for surgery and 10 of them had successfully undergone the cataract operation at Iboyaima Hospital.

The press release said that Hero Thokchom, a member of Global Shapers and M.D. of Iboyaima Hospital expressed his satisfaction with the entire arrangement and preparation for the camp, done by another Global Shapers member Dineshkumar Ningthoujam. Meanwhile, Armstrong Pame, the curator of Global Shapers Community expressed his gratitude to all the people who showed up reposing their faith on the doctors and the camp.

Global Shapers are a network of Hubs in all the major cities of the world formed by young achievers who are under 29 years of age working for the betterment of the society all over the world. Imphal Hub is the 450^th hub in the world. Global Shapers is an initiative of the world Economic Forum, Geneva. Can be reached at globalshapersmphal@gmail.com

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/10/global-shapers-organizes-free-eye-camp/

International Level Peace Poster Contest

IMPHAL, October 26: Lions Club of Imphal Greater organised two International Level Peace Poster Contest on the theme “Share Peace” at Sacred Heart Hr Sec. School and JNV Yaralpat Imphal

IMPHAL, October 26: Lions Club of Imphal Greater organised two International Level Peace Poster Contest on the theme “Share Peace” at Sacred Heart Hr Sec. School and JNV Yaralpat Imphal East, said a press release by Lions Club of Imphal Greater.

It said, the winners from the two Peace Poster Contest will be forwarded for District Level Competition, who will be eligible for further competition in multiple level and then South Asia, Africa and Middle East (ISAAME), followed by International Level.

The Peace Poster Contest is an Annual International Competition being organised by the Association of Lions Clubs all over the world in the age group of 11-13, and it was created in 1988 to give creative opportunity to young people to express their feelings and vision for world peace, for which approximately 400,000 children from 75 countries participate annually, said the press release.

It said, at Sacred Heart Hr. Sec. School, altogether 29 students from the Sacred Heart Hr. Sec. School, JNV Khumbong and Sishu Nistha Niketan participated in the Poster Contest, and Maleshori Sarungbam, a student of JNV Khumbong won the 1^st Position, followed by Melamnganba Waikhom of Shishu Nishtha Niketan and Ningthoujam Athoi Singh of Sacred Heart Hr. Sec. School in 2^nd and 3^rd Position respectively.

Meanwhile, 22 students participated in another Peace Poster Contest held at JNV Yaralpat, and Laiphrakpam Rohit, Ningthoujam Nandita and S. Deepa bagged 1^st, 2^nd and 3^rd positions respectively, said the press release.

It said, all the winners were given a cash prize of Rs. 1500, and Rs. 1000 and Rs. 750 for runners up, and the prizes were distributed with certificates at the competition venues.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/10/international-level-peace-poster-con%C2%ADtest/

North East sings a song and takes Delhi along

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

More Images:

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

Distribution of Old Age Pension at Jiribam

JIRIBAM, October 21: The Indira Gandhi National Old Age Pension Scheme was distributed to the red and blue card holders of Jribam Assembly Constituency at Jribam Police Station from October 17 to October 19, said a

It said, K. Romesh Singh, District Social Welfare Officer, Imphal East, Government of Manipur and his team along with a team of Jribam Police distributed the benefits, in which most of beneficiaries who live in remote villages had an issue in travelling.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2015/10/distribution-of-old-age-pension-at-jiribam/

Orientation Program on Entrepreneurship, Law & Order and Career for NE students

NEW DELHI, October 19: A career orientation cum social awareness program on entrepreneurship, law and order and career options for north-east students was organized by Voice Club in association with

North-east students participating the Orientation Program

NEW DELHI, October 19: A career orientation cum social awareness program on entrepreneurship, law and order and career options for north-east students was organized by Voice Club in association with Manipur Young Mind Association Delhi (MYMAD), Centre for Rural Upliftment and Development Organization (CREDO) and Manipur Upliftment Centre (MUC) Manipur, at Mukherjee Nagar Police Station, New Delhi, said a press release.

It said, Joy Raj, ex-serviceman and social worker talked about his experience as a north east student in delhi. He also explained about the mentality of discrimination, prejudice and other issues for both north-east people as well as the mainland people.

Meanwhile, Rajiv Baruwa, UPSC co-ordinator Sankalp Bhawan explained about pursuing civil services as a career. He also extended a comprehensive speech about UPSC exam preparation, said the press release.

It said, CP Barduwas, Inspector of Delhi Police talked about the security measures that the Delhi Police had taken over the years for the students staying in the North Campus areas of Delhi University, and also asked the participants to cooperate with Delhi Police in preventing and fighting crimes.

Moreover, the press release said that Hidam Gourashyam, a reasearch scholar from Manipur expressed his concerns about the lack of respect for labour and insisted that all professions should be respected.

Rohit Khari, former Assistant Director of Commerce & Industry, Goverment of India said that entrepreneurship is about taking risk with no limits, and added that entrepreneurship is needed for the development of any society, said the press release.

It said, the speakers were felicitated by Khulna laimayum, President, MYMAD, Anand Wangkhem, Secretary, CREDO, Manipur, Rezeena Yaikhom, Secretary of VOICE CLUB and Bidyasagar Salam, President of VOICE CLUB, Delhi.

North East Festival 2015 kicks off with high level discussions

NEW DELHI, Oct 18: After two immensely successful years, the third edition of the North East Festival kicked off in a great style with main focus in Tourism, Look East

High level discussion on 'North East's strategic importance to India and Act East Policy' at North East Festival 2015 New Delhi, 17 October 2015: The second afternoon of the 3rd edition of the North East Festival, currently underway at IGNCA in the capital saw an engaging and lively discussion on the 'North East's strategic importance to India and Act East policy'. The session featured high level panelists such as Mr. Ram Madhav, National General Secretary, BJP; Mr. Ravi Capoor, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Commerce, Government of India; Mr. AM Singh, Joint Secretary, Ministry of DoNER, Government of India, Dr. Nani Gopal Mahanta, Professor, University of Gauhati and Mr. Shyamkanu Mahanta, Organiser-in-chief, North East Festival. The session was moderated by well known journalist Kishalay Bhattacharjee. As a topic, North East's strategic importance is of paramount significance to the development of the North East region, and saw active and enthusiastic participation from representatives of all the states of the region. In his opening remarks, Mr. Shyamkanu Mahanta, Organiser-in-chief, North East Festival said, "There is a need to promote the North East and build bridges with the rest of the country. We also need to create a positive perception about the region, so that investors and businesses see the North East as a viable option." Speaking at the conference, Dr. Nani Gopal Mahanta, Professor, University of Gauhati said, "It is often said that since the North Eastern region is landlocked, development and commerce is a problem. I believe that North East can develop on its own. As a region, it historically had seamless connectivity with South East Asian and South Asian countries and that should be looked at once again. What is required is integration of road, rail and water transport and people to people connect. " In his address, Mr. Ram Madhav, National General Secretary, BJP said, "The emotional disconnect between the people of North East and the rest of t

North East Festival-Session on Look East Policy (Photo Courtesy: UB Photos)

NEW DELHI, Oct 18: After two immensely successful years, the third edition of the North East Festival kicked off in a great style with main focus in Tourism, Look East and Act East Policy with various discussion sessions with top policymakers, in the capital city of India from October 16 to October 18 at Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA), Janpath, New Delhi, organised by the reputed socio-cultural trust, Trend MMS, in association with IGNCA and North East Today, said a press release.

It said, the festival is comprised with 25 food stalls, 60 artisans, 40 musical bands, 30 folk dances, various exhibitions of tribes, handloom, handicrafts and much more, and it was inaugurated by Arvind Kejriwal, Chief Minister of Delhi, and the guests of honour were Manish Sisodia, Deputy CM of Delhi and Kapil Mishra, Tourism Minister of Delhi.

The press release stated that the Chief Minister of Delhi said northeast as the most beautiful destination in India with most beautiful and nice people.

The session featured high level panelists such as Ram Madhav, National General Secretary, BJP, Ravi Capoor, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Commerce, Government of India, AM Singh, Joint Secretary, Ministry of DoNER, Government of India, Dr. Nani Gopal Mahanta, Professor, University of Gauhati and Shyamkanu Mahanta, Organiser-in-chief, North East Festival, and the session was moderated by well known journalist Kishalay Bhattacharjee, said the press release.

It said, Shyamkanu Mahanta stated about the need to promote north-east and build bridges with the rest of the country and also mentioned the need to create a positive perception about the region so as to make the investors see north-east as a viable option.

Meanwhile, Dr. Nani Gopal Mahanta said that northeastern region is landlocked, with less development and poor commerce. She further expressed that she believes in development of northeast on its own, as historically it had seamless connectivity with South East Asian and South Asian countries, and the only requirement is integration of road, rail and water transport and connection of people to people, said the press release.

It said, Ram Madhav expressed about the emotional disconnect between the people of northeast and the rest of the country, and stated that the government is committed to bridge the emotional disconnect. He said India’s development is not complete without the development of North East and Government of India is taking many steps for development of the region. Ram Madhav further said that he believes in clean and efficient governance for the development of the region, with priority on developing good relations with the neighbours to make northeast region as the biggest beneficiary.

The press release also stated that Ravi Capoor spoke about the pre-independence days, when northeast was one of the most prosperous regions with free flow of trade, commerce and people between the countries. He also said that NASSCOM figures tell about 20% of people working in the outsourcing industry from the northeastern states and improvement of internet and digital connectivity could make the region an IT hub of the country.

Moreover, AM Singh stated about believing in northeast and the opportunities by DoNER to facilitate investments in the region, and further stated about the requirement of coordinated effort from all the stakeholders to sort out all the issues related to trade and commerce in the region, said the press release.

MSAD held a meeting for farewell of the former members

NEW DELHI, October 17: The Manipur Students’ Association Delhi (MSAD) held a meeting on October 11 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Delhi University Park, in which dicussions were

NEW DELHI, October 17: The Manipur Students’ Association Delhi (MSAD) held a meeting on October 11 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Delhi University Park, in which dicussions were carried out for the year 2015-2016, said a press release by MSAD.

It said, MSAD will be organising a farewell ceremony for all the members who have worked for the associaton for the year 2014-2015, followed by selecting a member to carry on the responsibilties until new members are assigned for the year 2015-2016.

In the meeting, things related to various activites done by the members were discussed to move towards progress and many important topics were brought up, and the former members were applauded for their work, said the press release.

It said, Irengbam priyobata was selected as a member to carry out all the task until new members are elected for the year 2015-2016.

The meeting was attended by Manishwar Nongmaithem, Irengbam Priyobata, Vishal Likmabam, Rajeev Mairembam, Jenish Laiphrakpam, Salam Mahesh, Y. Geetchandra, Chingtham Balbir, Wahengbam Herojit, Hemjit Sagolsem, Karnabir Thokchom, Aheibam Samananda, Salam Benson and Seram Rojesh, while three persons Andyson Oinam, Welkim Laishram and Sinthoiba Elangbam were not present, said the press release

MWGSN partners with NECTAR to empower women in Manipur and NE states

A woman named Rozi spinning yarn

NEW DELHI, October 17: The Manipur Women Gun Survivor Network (MWGSN), a project of the Control Arms Foundation of India (CAFI) has entered into a partnership with North East Centre for Technology Application and Reach (NECTAR), an autonomous body under Department of Science & Technology, said a press release by CAFI.

It said, the partnership was made to expand the economic empowerment and livelihood possibilities for women members of MWGSN.

After the success of the handloom and handicraft display in Delhi titled “Women Weaving Peace Together: Ima Keithel, A Northeast Bamboo Craft and Weaving Exhibition” held at India International Centre, New Delhi, from Sep 21-Sep 25, the two agencies are preparing the ground work for opening up economic empowerment and livelihood possibilities for its members, stated CAFI in the press release.

It said, NECTAR will support the technology input and has already provided funding for 50 looms, which would be installed in the existing MWGSN’s worksheds in Imphal and Bishnupur District of Manipur, and moreover has provided support for raw material purchase to kick-start production and has also offered to provide marketing support through their website.

The partnership will be expanded to support training, technology and livelihood in Manipur and other north-eastern states, stated CAFI in the press release.

NEFIS calls a day long nationwide hunger strike against AFSPA

DELHI, October 14: To mark the 15th year of heroic struggle of Irom Sharmila, North-East Forum for International Solidarity (NEFIS) will be on the move for a one day hunger

DELHI, October 14: To mark the 15^th year of heroic struggle of Irom Sharmila, North-East Forum for International Solidarity (NEFIS) will be on the move for a one day hunger strike across the country on November 2, said a press release by NEFIS.

The press release has stated that Irom Sharmila has been on hunger strike against the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) since November 2, 2000 and NEFIS has pledged to wage a nation-wide struggle against the draconian Act and to bring the validity of the long abused AFSPA into question.

It said, the draconian Act in Jammu & Kashmir and the North-East states has been serving as a useful weapon for the Indian State in order to curb the democratic rights and freedom of the people of the regions.

AFSPA grants special powers to the armed forces, the most controversial being the legal immunity it provides to army officers. AFSPA is an anti-people, oppressive Act as it assigns the armed forces special powers for detaining, using lethal force and entering and searching premises without warrant, stated NEFIS in the press release.

NEFIS further stated in the press release that AFSPA has been condemned nationally and internationally by all democratic and justice loving people, and in order to highlight the ongoing struggle for democratic rights, NEFIS has called upon all the communities of the north east, as well as several democratic and civil liberties organizations and individual civil rights activists across the country to observe the hunger strike on November 2.

NEFIS demands removal of AFSPA from all states and appeal to support the campaign to fight against militarization and suppression of democratic rights, which is not just the concern of the people of North-East India but the struggle against AFSPA is the struggle to uphold the ideals of democracy and freedom for all, said NEFIS in the press release.

Himalayan University awarded with Leading University Of The Year

GUWAHATI, October 13 : Himalayan University, Itanagar was awarded Leading University Of The Year in Eastern India under brands achiever awards for pursued excellence in consumer satisfaction in education, with

Former cricketer Ajay Jadeja giving the award

It said, the award ceremony was at Hotel Maple Emerald, Gurgaon and it was graced by former Indian cricketer Ajay Jadeja as chief guest.

Deputy Director of Himalayan University, Prabh Mohan who received the award, expressed his immense pleasure to the media and stated that the award will enhance the charisma in the name of the university, said the press release.

It said, Prabh Mohan also spoke about Himalayan University as one of the top ranking Universities of the nation, and further stated to bring students with world-class study environment with dedicated and experienced faculties and top-class facilities.

Dynamic Manipur concludes Dynamic Startup Event successfully

IMPHAL, Oct 12: Aspiring entrepreneurs who came up with the business ideas like Taret Foods, Kangla Incense and Sangbrei Hairoil won the top three positions of Dr Amuchou Soraisham Aspiring

IMPHAL, Oct 12: Aspiring entrepreneurs who came up with the business ideas like Taret Foods, Kangla Incense and Sangbrei Hairoil won the top three positions of Dr Amuchou Soraisham Aspiring Entrepreneur Award in the Dynamic Startup Event held on October 11 at MIMS, Manipur University, said a press release by Dynamic Manipur.

It said, the top three toppers were awarded a cash prize of Rs 5000, Rs 4000 and Rs 3000 along with mementos, and the selected budding entrepreneurs will be provided with facilities like guaranteed Private Investments for Validated Business Ideas, 6 Months Business Mentoring at the Incubation Center managed by GLOBIZS and WOL media and 12 Ads Credits from Manipur Times when their product is ready to go out to the market.

The Startup Event was organized with support from the sponsoring Partners like Marina Spring, Shija Hospitals, Babina Diagnostics, FRANCHISE India, Hotel Classic, Imphal, Globizs Web Solutions, Manipur Creations, HVS Constructions Materials Pvt. Ltd with a view to boosting up the aspiring local entrepreneurs as well as help validating their business ideas by using the scientific tools like Business Canvas, Lean Canvas, Javelin Board etc, said the press release.

It said, the first episode of “Dynamic Startup” was organized by Dynamic Manipur in association with MIMS, MU, Globizs and WOL Media on October 10 and October 11 after conducting two Lean Startup Workshops in the months of March and May this year.

The aspiring entrepreneurs were coached by Keshorjit Sororkhaibam, Faculty, MIMS, MU, Roshni Kumar Yambem, MD, Globizs Web Solutions Pvt Ltd, James Mayengbam, MD, WOL Media, and their business ideas were judged by Dr Dhabali Thangjam, Chairman, Babina Healthcare & Hospitalities Pvt Ltd, Koijam Vasunraz, MD, Manipur Creations and Hanjabam Shubra Devi, MD, Meira Foods, said the press release.

It said, as the endorsing partners, MIMS, Manipur University, Korea Manipuri Association (KMA), North American Manipur Association (NAMA), Green Biotech, Likla-Thangjam Agro Industries Pvt. Ltd., Imphal and WiseWorld Immigration and Education Consultants, Toronto, Canada extended support in successful conduct of the event, while WOL Media, Siroi Offset Printers, Thoubal, Globizs Web Solutions, E-pao, Impact TV, Manipur Times and The Peoples’ Chronicle were the Advertising, Printing, Technology and Media Partners.

MSAP elects its Executive Body Committee 2015-2016

PUNE, Oct 12: The Executive Body Committee 2015-2016 of Manipur Student Association Pune (MSAP) was elected on October 11 at Kondhwa Khurd Shajid Residential during its General Body meeting, said

PUNE, Oct 12: The Executive Body Committee 2015-2016 of Manipur Student Association Pune (MSAP) was elected on October 11 at Kondhwa Khurd Shajid Residential during its General Body meeting, said a press release by MSAP Executive Committee Election.

It said, the meeting was attended by advisors of MSAP and many working Manipuri professionals staying in and around Pune.

Mohd. Aarif was elected as President, followed by Sougaijam Mukta Khuman as Vice-President and Thiyam Gajenjit alias Bobo as General Secretary, along with seven other secretaries and a treasurer, said the press release.