Items filtered by date: Saturday, 03 October 2026

Government Appeals to JFD to Refrain From Agitation Over NRC Demand

Imphal, October 3: Manipur Government spokesperson Dr Sapam Ranjan has appealed to the Justice for Democracy (JFD) to refrain from bandhs and other forms of agitation over the demand for updation of the National Register of Citizens (NRC) in Manipur. Speaking to the media at his residence in Konthoujam, Ranjan said the state government is taking the matter seriously and pursuing the issue with the Centre ahead of the Census exercise. He recalled that JFD had submitted a memorandum seeking approval for NRC updation and had warned of intensified agitation if the demand was not met. Ranjan urged JFD and the public to avoid disruptions.

Khundrakpam MLA Calls for Peace and Return of IDPs

Imphal, October 3: Khundrakpam MLA Thokchom Lokeshwor has called on the state and central governments to demonstrate the functioning of the Home Department by restoring peace in Manipur and facilitating the return of internally displaced persons staying in relief camps. Speaking at the 26th Foundation Day celebration of Leikol at MDU Hall, Yaiskul Police Lane, Lokeshwor also called for security officers to be posted without community-based considerations. He urged the government to facilitate dialogue among communities and allow MLAs to engage with people across their constituencies. The MLA also urged writers to document the changes taking place in Manipuri society and preserve them for future generations.

Ibobi Questions Centre’s Handling of Manipur Crisis

Imphal, October 3: MPCC President Okram Ibobi has questioned why the Centre has been unable to resolve the Manipur crisis after more than three years. Speaking at a political conference on women’s empowerment at Tabungkhok in Patsoi Constituency, Ibobi referred to previous conflicts in the state and claimed that earlier governments had resolved them more quickly. He also questioned the handling of the present crisis. All India Mahila Congress President Alka Lamba criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi over his handling of Manipur and claimed that people in the state have lost faith in the BJP. Former Patsoi MLA AK Mirabai stressed the need to improve livelihoods for young mothers.

Governor Calls for More Intensive TB Detection in Remote Areas

Imphal, October 3: Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla has called for intensified tuberculosis detection in remote areas of Manipur while stressing the need for nutritional and emotional support for patients and their families. He was speaking at a nutritional food basket distribution programme at the MSFDS Auditorium in the Palace Compound. The programme was organised under the Pradhan Mantri TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyan and National TB Elimination Programme. The Governor said around 2,500 TB cases are detected annually in Manipur and urged greater screening in hard-to-reach areas. He also asked Deputy Commissioners to utilise newly distributed handheld X-ray machines and called on CSOs and community leaders to support TB patients.

Wangkhei MLA Appeals for Education Sector to Remain Undisturbed

Imphal, October 3: Wangkhei MLA Thangjam Arunkumar has appealed to all sections of society not to cause disturbances in the education sector. Speaking at the 59th Foundation Day celebration of WAL United Youth’s Club at Wangkhei Angom Leikai, Arunkumar said education should receive the same importance as essential services such as healthcare and water supply. He also highlighted the role of local clubs as representative bodies within communities. The MLA expressed concern over what he described as a decline in community bonding between different generations in localities. Planning Department Director Dr RK Radhesana and members and office-bearers of WAL United Youth’s Club attended the programme.

Two 50-Bed Hostels Inaugurated at Langmeidong Higher Secondary School

Kakching, October 3: Education (S) Director Ng. Bhogendro inaugurated two newly constructed 50-bed hostels for boys and girls at Langmeidong Higher Secondary School in Kakching district. The hostels have been named Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Awasiya Vidyalaya Hostels. Speaking at the inauguration, Bhogendro said the facilities would provide better accommodation for students and assured that the Education Department would expedite work to meet other requirements of the school. Education (S) Additional Director Kh. Bisheshore and other dignitaries attended the programme. Following the inauguration, the Education Director also inspected government schools at Thounaojam, Elangkhangpokpi and Waikhong in Hiyanglam Assembly Constituency.

Monthlong Public Discourse on Meitei Pangal Identity Begins

Bishnupur, October 3: A monthlong public discourse titled “Recalling Our Identity”, focusing on the identity and heritage of the Meitei Pangal community in different parts of Manipur, began at Kwakta Municipal Council Community Hall. The programme is jointly organised by the All Manipur Meitei Pangal Clubs’ Organisation and All Kwakta Youths Voluntary Organisation. Religious leaders, cultural activists, community representatives and social workers attended the inaugural programme. The discourse aims to discuss aspects of the community’s identity and heritage and provide a platform for public engagement on issues concerning the community. The programme will continue over the coming weeks as part of the monthlong initiative.

RTI Reveals Rs 6.75 Crore Expenditure on Shirui Lily Festival 2025

Ukhrul, October 3: The Manipur Tourism Department spent around Rs 6.75 crore on the Shirui Lily Festival 2025, according to information obtained under the Right to Information Act. An RTI response issued by the Additional Director of Tourism on August 17 detailed expenditure on entertainment, cultural programmes, transport, security, publicity, media promotion, logistics and other activities. Major expenses included around Rs 2.83 crore for the Entertainment Sub-Committee and Rs 1.54 crore for the Cultural Sub-Committee under the Deputy Commissioner, Ukhrul. The response also listed expenses for security, a drone show, fireworks and tourist experiential activities. The RTI application was filed in July.

Landslide Disrupts NH-37, Hundreds of Trucks Stranded

Noney, October 3: A landslide at T. Leijang in the Kotlen area along National Highway-37, the Imphal-Jiribam Highway, has disrupted vehicular movement and left hundreds of trucks stranded. Around 500 trucks carrying essential commodities towards Imphal were reportedly stranded at Noney following the landslide, which occurred at around 8 pm on October 2. The incident blocked the highway and affected traffic in both directions. The NHIDCL deployed machinery and began clearance work to restore the road. Around 317 vehicles travelling from Imphal towards Jiribam were also unable to proceed and were reportedly escorted back towards Imphal following the disruption.

Rainfall Expected Across Several Parts of Manipur

Imphal, October 3: The India Meteorological Department’s Imphal Centre has forecast further rainfall in several parts of Manipur on October 3 and 4. According to the bulletin, many districts are expected to receive rain on October 3, with some areas likely to receive rainfall on October 4 as well. The ICAR Agrometeorological Unit at Lamphelpat recorded 6.2 millimetres of rainfall in the state during the preceding 24 hours. Residents and travellers have been advised to remain cautious, particularly in areas vulnerable to weather-related disruptions, as rainfall continues across different parts of the state.

Forest Department Organises Half Marathon During Wildlife Week

Imphal, October 3: The Forest Department organised a half marathon in Imphal as part of the 72nd Wildlife Week under the theme “Together for Wildlife.” Around 500 runners participated in the event, which began at Lamboi Khongnangkhong Lampak. The route extended up to Phayeng before returning to the starting point. Chief Conservator of Forests T-I/Wildlife L. Joykumar flagged off the marathon. The event was organised to mark Wildlife Week and promote awareness and public participation in wildlife conservation. Runners from different sections of society took part in the programme, highlighting the importance of collective efforts towards protecting wildlife and natural habitats.

Surra Confirmed Among Manipuri Ponies in Kakching

Kakching, October 3: The Veterinary and Animal Husbandry Department has confirmed Trypanosoma evansi, commonly known as Surra, among Manipuri Ponies in Hiyanglam and Wabagai areas of Kakching district. Director Dr L. Arunkumar said veterinary teams examined the animals following reports of illness. The affected ponies showed symptoms including fever, runny nose, cough, weakness and breathing difficulties. Samples from eight ponies were sent to the ICAR-National Research Centre on Equines in Hisar, which confirmed the disease and advised treatment. Veterinary teams have begun treatment and monitoring. The department has advised owners to prevent fly bites, restrict movement of sick ponies and report symptoms promptly.

20th Remembrance Day of Dr K. Binod Kumar Observed

Imphal, October 3: The 20th Remembrance Day of Dr K. Binod Kumar, who was killed in the 2006 ISKCON bomb blast, was observed at the DIPR Auditorium. The programme was organised by the Dr K. Binod Kumar Memorial Trust, Kwakeithel. Retired officials, academics, social workers and representatives of the trust attended the observance. Participants paid floral tributes to social activists who had worked alongside Dr Binod Kumar during his lifetime. Trust Secretary G. Nishikanta Sharma recalled that Dr Binod Kumar lost his life in the tragic ISKCON bomb blast in 2006. The annual observance was held to remember his contribution and honour his memory.

Indian Women’s Hockey Team Ends 44-Year Wait for Asian Games Gold

Nagoya, October 3: The Indian women’s hockey team ended a 44-year wait for Asian Games gold after defeating China in the final of the 20th Asian Games in Japan. Lalremsiami scored the only goal in the 10th minute to give India the lead. Goalkeeper Savita Punia then made a crucial save in the 23rd minute, stopping a penalty stroke awarded to China and preserving India’s advantage. The victory marks India’s first women’s hockey gold at the Asian Games since the ninth edition hosted by India 44 years ago. With the title, India also secured a berth at the 2028 Summer Olympic Games in Los Angeles.

India Wins Bronze in Men’s Sepaktakraw Quadrant Event

Nagoya, October 3: India won the bronze medal in the men’s Sepaktakraw Quadrant event at the 20th Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan. India defeated Laos and Vietnam in the group stage before overcoming Myanmar 10-15, 15-13, 15-7 to reach the semi-finals. Japan defeated India 15-12, 15-13 in the semi-final, leaving India with the bronze medal. Three players and one coach from Manipur were part of the Indian team. The Manipur contingent included coach Pangambam Durjit and players Akash Yumnam, Sorokhaibam Malemnganba and Elangbam Lokhon. The medal adds to India’s achievements at the continental sporting event.