Items filtered by date: Sunday, 30 August 2026

CM Khemchand Leaves for Delhi on State Issues

Imphal, August 30: Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand left for New Delhi today after being called by Central leaders to discuss issues concerning Manipur. Speaking at a programme organised by the District Handlooms and Textiles, Kakching, BJP Hiyanglam MLA Dr. Y. Radheshyam expressed hope that the Chief Minister’s visit would lead to concrete progress on the demand for NRC updation before the Census. He appealed to the public to withdraw ongoing agitations, including general strikes, over the issue. Radheshyam said the State Government acknowledges the public demand and expressed hope that Khemchand would return with a positive response following discussions with Central leaders.

Former MLA Seeks Clarity on ‘No NRC, No Census’

Imphal, August 30: Former Sagolband MLA Dr. Khwairakpam Loken has urged the State Government to clearly state its position on the public demand for “No NRC, No Census.” Speaking during a public meeting organised by the Sagolband Block Congress Committee at Thingom Leikai Community Hall, Loken said the government must move beyond an ad-hoc approach and take concrete decisions. He highlighted the impact of the prolonged conflict on Manipur’s economy and the hardships faced by internally displaced persons. Loken also raised concerns over alleged illegal immigration and its impact on indigenous people. He called for concrete decisions during the upcoming Assembly session and a sound economic policy.

APAL Warns of Agitation Over NRC Demand

Imphal, August 30: Amaiba Apunba Lup (APAL), Kangleipak has warned of intensified agitation if the Centre and State Governments fail to implement NRC updation in Manipur before the Census. Speaking at Manipur Press Club, APAL General Secretary Angomcha Mainou said the alleged influx of non-locals is affecting the state’s political, economic and social interests. He maintained that conducting the Census without identifying foreigners would adversely affect indigenous people. APAL urged the government to begin NRC updation with 1951 as the base year before the Census. The organisation also demanded a suitable resolution during the Assembly session beginning September 2 and warned of further agitation if its demands are not addressed.

Keishampat Locals Launch ‘No NRC, No Census’ Campaign

Imphal, August 30: Apunba Meira Paibi Lup Leikai Tara, Keishampat Ward Number 9, launched a poster campaign today demanding “No NRC, No Census.” Local residents also announced a ban on the entry of Census officials into the locality. The campaign was jointly organised by clubs and Meira Paibi groups from ten localities within Keishampat Ward Number 9. Speaking during the campaign, Women Welfare Secretary Thokchom Chandrasakhi said the Census should not be conducted without NRC updation. The organisation extended full support to the movement led by the JFD and warned that failure to take a concrete decision on NRC during the upcoming Assembly session could trigger a larger public agitation.

Heirangoithong Club Bans Census Activities

Imphal, August 30: Social Workers Club, Heirangoithong has decided to prohibit Census-related activities within its jurisdiction. The decision was announced by Club Secretary Ngangom Binodkumar during the club’s 65th Foundation Day celebration today. The club also prohibited government employees residing in the area from attending Census-related training. Binodkumar said the demand for NRC updation with 1951 as the base year is aimed at protecting indigenous people and future generations. He warned that those violating the decision would be responsible for any consequences. The club extended support to movements demanding NRC updation and also paid floral tributes to its departed leaders during the foundation day programme.

Ramdas Athawale to Visit Manipur Tomorrow

Imphal, August 30: RPI-Athawale National President and Union Minister Ramdas Athawale will arrive in Imphal tomorrow for a two-day visit to Manipur. Speaking at a press meet at the party’s Keishampat office, National Secretary Maheshwar Thounaojam said Athawale has publicly committed to supporting key issues concerning the state. He said the Union Minister has backed demands for NRC updation before the Census and inclusion of Meitei/Meetei in the Scheduled Tribe list. Athawale will attend a public meeting at City Convention Centre after his arrival. Maheshwar appealed to people to participate in the meeting, stressing that the visit is intended to demonstrate the party’s commitment to Manipur and its people.

CPI Seeks Concrete NRC Decision in Assembly

Imphal, August 30: The CPI Manipur State Council has urged the State Government to take a concrete decision in the upcoming Assembly session on NRC updation before conducting the Census. Speaking to reporters at Irawat Bhawan, CPI spokesperson R.K. Amusana said the government must move beyond assurances on restoring peace and demonstrate its commitment through firm decisions. He called for measures to stop armed attacks, arson and killings of civilians. Amusana also highlighted the state’s deteriorating financial condition and growing unemployment among educated youth. He urged the government to seek a Special Economic Package from the Centre and demanded that thousands of vacant posts in various government departments be filled at the earliest.

UNAL Marks 11th Foundation Day

Imphal, August 30: The 11th Foundation Day of Uripok Nupi Apunba Lup and the third Uripok Nupi Yaipha Meira observance were held at Imphal Public Library, Uripok Sorbon Thingel, today. Speaking at the programme, UNAL President Sagolshem Indrani said the organisation has continued to take up responsibilities on various fronts for the welfare of the state. She recalled UNAL’s three-month agitation seeking justice for six people, including children, killed in Jiribam. Indrani said the organisation has extended assistance to people affected by the violence since May 2023. UNAL also extended support to the JFD-led “No NRC, No Census” movement and called for unity during public movements.

Rajeev Singh Thakur Set to Become Manipur Chief Secretary

Imphal, August 30: Manipur is set to get its fifth Chief Secretary in three years following the transfer of senior IAS officer Rajeev Singh Thakur from the Rajasthan cadre to the Manipur cadre. According to a Department of Personnel and Training order dated August 28, the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet approved his inter-cadre transfer until June 30, 2029, or until his superannuation. Thakur, a 1995-batch IAS officer, is currently Programme Director for Administration, Governance and Reforms, Infrastructure Connectivity at NITI Aayog. Meanwhile, Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand hosted a farewell for outgoing Chief Secretary Puneet Kumar Goel, who is due to retire this month, and praised his contributions to peace efforts and IDP resettlement.

PDA Khurai Candidate Forms Election Central Committee

Imphal, August 30: Peoples Democratic Alliance intending candidate from Khurai Assembly Constituency, Laitonjam Jayananda, has formed his Election Central Committee ahead of the 13th Manipur Assembly election expected early next year. Speaking at the committee’s office-bearer selection programme at Khurai Konsam Leikai, Jayananda described the upcoming election as decisive for Manipur and Khurai. He stressed that participating in elections is a democratic right and expressed confidence of winning with public support. Jayananda also criticised his political rival and called for his resignation. On the prevailing situation, he alleged that the State Government has failed to restore normalcy and referred to the recent killing of four Naga youths in an ambush.

Arms Cache Recovered in Bishnupur

Bishnupur, August 30: Bishnupur District Police and security forces recovered a cache of arms and explosives during a search operation at Keipha Road Patton near a water supply pump on August 29. The recovered items included a 9-mm pistol, a .32 pistol, a country-made AK rifle, a country-made MP-9, a country-made SBBL and a country-made .22 rifle, along with magazines. Security personnel also recovered two Number 36 hand grenades, two improvised explosive devices, ammunition of different calibres and other accessories. The recovery was made during a joint search operation as part of continuing security measures in the district. Further details regarding the source and intended use of the weapons were not immediately available.

Two Arrested With 53 Grams of Heroin in Bishnupur

Bishnupur, August 30: Manipur Police arrested two persons and seized 53 grams of Heroin Number 4 during a routine vehicle-checking operation near the Sericulture Training Centre at Phougakchao Ikhai. According to police, the suspected contraband was concealed in five separate soap caps. The arrested persons were identified as 34-year-old Md. Amir Khan of Kwakta Ward Number 3 and 33-year-old Md. Bungo of Kwakta Pangal Lamkhai. Police also seized a Suzuki Burgman Street 125cc scooter allegedly used by the two men. The arrests were made as part of the ongoing War on Drugs campaign. A case has been registered and further investigation is underway.

Grenade Attack Reported at Khangabok Petrol Pump

Thoubal, August 30: Unidentified persons allegedly hurled a hand grenade at Sorojini Oil Pump located between Wangbal and Wangjing along National Highway-102 last evening. According to police, the incident occurred at around 6:30 pm. No injuries or major property damage were reported. Following the blast, SDPO Thoubal, the Officer-in-Charge of Thoubal Police Station and personnel from the Commando unit rushed to the site and inspected the area. Police said the identity of those behind the attack and the motive remain unknown. The incident has raised concern among local residents and businesses along the highway. Further investigation is underway to identify those responsible for the attack.

Sit-In Held Against Khangabok Petrol Pump Blast

Thoubal, August 30: A sit-in protest was held today at Sorojini Oil Pump, Khangabok, condemning last evening’s grenade attack on the petrol pump. Protesters carried placards and raised slogans against attacks at public places. Speaking during the protest, Khangabok Part-Two Village Educational Development and Sports Cooperative Organisation Youth Wing Convenor Saikhom Mahanta said unidentified persons allegedly arrived in a four-wheeler and hurled the explosive at the petrol pump. He condemned the incident and urged those responsible to clarify their actions. Mahanta warned that local residents would launch democratic agitations if no clarification is provided and appealed to all sections to refrain from spreading fear and intimidation at public places.

Public Deliberation Calls for Revocation of SoO Agreement

Imphal, August 30: A public deliberation on the Suspension of Operations agreement with KNO and UPF was held at Sangai Hall of Imphal Hotel, North AOC, today. The discussion, titled “SoO with KNO & UPF: Examining the Record and the Way Forward,” brought together representatives of public organisations, prominent citizens and community leaders. Participants unanimously resolved that the SoO agreement has become a major obstacle to achieving complete peace in Manipur. They called upon the Government of India to revoke the agreement. The deliberation focused on examining the record of the agreement and discussing possible steps towards restoring lasting peace and addressing concerns surrounding armed groups operating under the SoO framework.

ZUF Observes 95th Martyrdom Day of Haipou Jadonang

Noney, August 30: The Zeliangrong United Front observed the 95th Martyrdom Day of Haipou Jadonang at its Council Headquarters, General Headquarters, battalions and tactical units across Assam, Manipur and Nagaland. According to a statement issued by the organisation’s Ministry of Information and Publicity, the observance included military salutes, solemn tributes and candle-lighting ceremonies. ZUF recalled Jadonang’s sacrifice and his struggle under extremely difficult circumstances. The organisation also alleged that the Government of India has continued to delay recognition of his contribution and demanded that he receive equal and due recognition and awards as a freedom fighter of India. The observance honoured Jadonang’s legacy and contributions to the Zeliangrong people.

MLA Takes Up Reconstruction of Dilapidated House

Imphal, August 30: Mayang Imphal MLA Kongkham Robindro has taken up the reconstruction of a severely dilapidated house belonging to Thoudam Thoi at Mayang Imphal Thana Wangkhei Leikai. Construction work began on August 1 after the Khuman Leibakki Lamyanba Kanglup and local Meira Paibi appealed to the MLA for assistance. Thoi has reportedly been living in the damaged house with her 24-year-old daughter, who is a person with disability, following the death of her husband Thoudam Joy. Former KLLK President Yumnam Opendro thanked the MLA for responding to the request. He also appealed to authorities to ensure the family receives widow pension and disability-related benefits.

Sanskrit Workshop Concludes at DMU

Imphal, August 30: A weeklong Sanskrit teaching workshop, “Sanskrit Saptatha Charanam,” and a 10-day online Sanskrit Varga concluded at Sanskrit Tol, DMU campus, today. The programme was organised by Samskrita Bharati, Manipur Prant, and Sanskrit Tol Imphal. Speaking on the occasion, Dhanamanjuri University Vice Chancellor W. Chandbabu highlighted the emphasis placed by the National Education Policy 2020 on the revival and development of Indian languages, including Sanskrit. He noted the significance of Sanskrit in Hindu rites and rituals and said knowledge of the language can help people better understand traditional practices and values. The workshop sought to promote Sanskrit learning and awareness among participants.

Thang-Ta Workshop-Cum-Production Concludes

Imphal, August 30: A monthlong workshop-cum-production programme on Thang-Ta Ta-Khousarol organised by the Goodwill Foundation for Culture, Bamonkampu concluded today. The programme was conducted with financial support under the Chief Ministergi Artistesinggi Tengbang. The closing ceremony was held at the Huyen Lalong Manipur Thang-Ta Cultural Association Auditorium, Irilbung, where Thang-Ta artistes presented performances. Speaking during the event, Huyen Lalong Manipur Thang-Ta Cultural Association Director K. Sanathoiba Sharma highlighted the importance of Thang-Ta in life and cultural traditions. He appreciated the Goodwill Foundation’s efforts to promote and preserve the traditional martial art form and encouraged continued initiatives to safeguard Manipur’s cultural heritage.

‘Sundays On Cycle’ Held in Imphal

Imphal, August 30: A “Sundays On Cycle” programme was organised at the SAI Special Training Centre, Khuman Lampak Sports Complex, today as part of National Sports Day activities. The event was attended by YAS Secretary N. Praveen, YAS Director Dr. M. Veto, BSF Deputy Commandant Deepak Kannaujiya and SAI STC Imphal Centre In-Charge M. Ramani, along with coaches, staff and trainees. The cycling rally began at SAI STC and passed through North AOC, Chingmeirong and Mantripukhri before reaching Khabam Lamkhai and concluding at Ibudhou Marjing Complex, Heingang. N. Praveen said reducing dependence on motor vehicles and cycling regularly can help people maintain fitness and prevent lifestyle-related health problems.

RIMS Holds Sports Medicine Health Camp

Imphal, August 30: RIMS Imphal’s Department of Sports Medicine organised a health camp-cum-interaction programme today to provide healthcare support to sportspersons and promote healthy lifestyles. RIMS Director Professor G. Sunil Kumar Sharma, Department of Sports Medicine Head-in-Charge Associate Professor Dr. Yumnam Ningthemba and Professor Dr. Akoijam Joy participated in the programme. Speaking on the occasion, Professor Sunil Kumar highlighted RIMS’ growing role in Sports Medicine, noting that it is among the few institutes offering the specialised service in the Northeast and is also among the top Sports Medicine centres in the country. The programme aimed to create greater awareness about sports-related healthcare, fitness and the importance of professional medical support for athletes.

Excellence Awards Conferred on BBA Toppers

Imphal, August 30: The Gurumayum Ashish Sharma Memorial Excellence Award 2026 was presented to toppers of the sixth-semester BBA examination conducted by Manipur University at VIBGYOR Institute of Management and Information Technology. The award ceremony was held at the institute in Wangkhei Ningthem Pukhri Mapal. Students securing first, second and third positions were honoured with awards instituted by the family of late Gurumayum Ashish Sharma, while those securing fourth and fifth positions received awards from the institution. Ashish’s father, Gurumayum Rakesh, said the award was established in memory of his son, who passed away after studying at the institute for two months, to motivate and encourage students to excel academically.

Over 5,000 Students Honoured in Math, Science Competition

Imphal, August 30: The prize distribution ceremony for the Mathematics and Science Competition organised by Knowledge Planet was held at GP Women’s College today. The competition, conducted on June 28, was organised separately for students from Classes 3 to 10 at five centres across Imphal, Thoubal, Kakching, Moirang and Mayai Lambi. More than 5,000 students participated in the competition. Deputy Director of the Directorate of Economics and Statistics R.K. Dhirensana and Head of the Manipuri Department at Naorem Birahari College Dr. Haobijam Chalamba attended the prize distribution programme. The event recognised students who performed well in the competition and encouraged young learners to pursue greater interest in mathematics and science.

Free Medical Camp Held in Ningthoukhong

Bishnupur, August 30: Lions Club of Imphal, Lions Club of Ningthoukhong and Mangang Dental Clinic jointly organised a free medical camp at Mangang Dental Clinic, Ningthoukhong, today. The camp was conducted under Lions International District 322D’s “One District One Activity” initiative as part of Rohit Mehta Lions Quest Week 2026. More than 60 people benefited from free eye examinations, dental check-ups and general medical consultations during the programme. Free medicines and toothpaste were also distributed to beneficiaries. The organisers said the initiative was aimed at improving access to basic healthcare services and raising awareness about eye, dental and general health among people in the locality.

Rongmei Baptist Churches Council Observes Men’s Day

Noney, August 30: The 24th Men’s Day celebration of the Rongmei Baptist Churches Council was held across Rongmei churches in Noney district today. The programme was conducted under the theme “A Man After God’s Own Heart,” with speakers delivering messages based on the theme. Various competitions, including song, speech, Bible quiz and Bible recitation, were organised as part of the celebration. Participants from the churches took part in the activities, which aimed to promote fellowship, faith and community participation. The programme concluded with a prize distribution ceremony honouring winners of the different competitions. The annual observance brought together members of the Rongmei Baptist community for religious reflection and fellowship.

‘Ningol Di Sana-Ni’ Play Postponed

Imphal, August 30: The staging of the new play “Ningol Di Sana-Ni,” scheduled for tomorrow at 3 pm at MDU Hall, Yaiskul Police Lane, has been postponed. In a press statement, the Royal Theatrical Club said the decision was taken in view of the prevailing situation in the state. The play was scheduled to be staged as part of the club’s theatrical activities, but the organisers decided to defer the performance considering the current circumstances. A revised date for the staging has not been announced. Theatre groups and audiences are expected to await further communication from the Royal Theatrical Club regarding the new schedule for the production.

Three Manipuri Cyclists Selected for Asian Games

Imphal, August 30: Three cyclists from Manipur — Laitonjam Ronaldo, Keithellakpam James and Yanglem Rojit — will represent India in the Cycling Track event at the 20th Asian Games. The Games will be hosted by Japan in Aichi-Nagoya under the aegis of the Olympic Council of Asia. India’s Cycling Track contingent will comprise 14 cyclists, including six men and eight women. The selection of the three Manipuri cyclists adds to the state’s growing representation in international sporting events. Their participation at the Asian Games will provide an opportunity to compete against leading cyclists from across Asia while representing the country at one of the region’s biggest multi-sport competitions.

Oinam Kangkhut Defeats Thongju Kangkhut

Imphal, August 30: Oinam Kangkhut defeated Thongju Kangkhut 19-14 in the ninth league match of the ongoing First Sinam Nodiachand Memorial Invitation League-cum-Knockout Kang Tournament. The tournament is being organised by Laijing Ningthou Apunba Kangkhut, Thangmeiband, under the sponsorship of Sinam Nodiachand Memorial Foundation, Thangmeiband Sinam Leikai. Oinam Kangkhut secured a five-point victory in the latest league encounter. A total of 12 teams are taking part in the league round, divided into four groups. The tournament is aimed at promoting the traditional Kang sport and providing competitive opportunities for participating teams while honouring the memory of Sinam Nodiachand.