Items filtered by date: Sunday, 02 August 2026

CM Launches Nasha Mukt Yuva Campaign, Urges Youth to Build Drug-Free India

Imphal, Aug. 2: The nationwide "Nasha Mukt Yuva for Vikshit Bharat Sankalp Abhiyan" was launched in Manipur today with Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand calling upon the youth to stay away from drugs and actively contribute towards building a developed India by 2047. The state-level programme was held at the Auditorium of Manipur University and organised by the NSS Cell, Manipur University, in collaboration with the State NSS Cell under the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports. Addressing students and faculty members, the Chief Minister said the vision of Vikshit Bharat 2047 can only be realised through the active participation of young people. He stressed that drug abuse remains one of the biggest challenges facing Manipur and urged collective efforts to eradicate the menace. Khemchand appealed to youths to become responsible citizens and play a leading role in creating a healthy, productive and drug-free society.

Railway to Reach Imphal by December 2028, Says Chief Minister

Imphal, Aug. 2: Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand today announced that the government is working to bring the railway network to Imphal by December 2028, after which the line will be extended to Moreh along the Indo-Myanmar border. Speaking at the launch of the Nasha Mukt Yuva for Vikshit Bharat Sankalp Abhiyan at Manipur University, the Chief Minister said the railway project would significantly improve connectivity and strengthen Manipur's role as India's gateway to Southeast Asia. He said the extension to Moreh would enhance trade and regional cooperation under the country's Act East Policy. However, Khemchand cautioned that improved connectivity also requires stronger vigilance against cross-border drug trafficking. He urged young people to support the government's fight against drugs and help ensure that the benefits of improved infrastructure are not undermined by illegal activities. The programme was attended by Manipur University Vice-Chancellor R.K. Hemakumar, faculty members and students.

Additional Commandos to Be Deployed Along NH-37 to Check Extortion

Imphal, Aug. 2: Home Minister Govindas Konthoujam today said the Manipur Government will deploy additional State Commando units along National Highway-37 to curb illegal extortion targeting vehicles transporting essential commodities. Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of the Gen-Z Against Addiction – Nasha Mukt Yuva Pledge Ceremony at Standard College, Kongba, the Minister said the decision follows concerns raised by transporters over alleged illegal taxation by armed groups operating along the highway. He informed that authorities have launched an investigation into a viral social media video purportedly showing extortionists collecting money from transporters. Govindas said the government has reached an understanding with transporters' associations on key issues, including enhanced security for goods vehicles and stronger deployment of security personnel along vulnerable stretches of the highway. He reiterated the government's commitment to ensuring uninterrupted movement of essential supplies into the state.

Manipur Police Strengthen NH-37 Security; Fuel Tankers to Resume Movement

Imphal, Aug. 2: Manipur Police has introduced a fresh set of security measures to ensure the safe movement of convoys and petroleum products along National Highway-37. According to an order issued by the Additional Director General of Police (Law and Order), the Inspector General of Police (Zone-III) has been designated as the Nodal Officer to oversee convoy security and coordinate with all stakeholders. District police have been directed to strictly implement Standard Operating Procedures, conduct special drives against extortion and intensify public awareness campaigns against supporting unlawful activities. The order also calls for close coordination among the State Police, Central Armed Police Forces, Assam Rifles and the Army to ensure smooth convoy movement. Dedicated security teams will be deployed at vulnerable stretches of the highway. Meanwhile, the Manipur Petroleum Products Transporters' Association (MPPTA) announced that fuel tanker movement along NH-37 will resume from Monday.

DGP Reviews Law and Order, Calls for Intelligence-Based Policing

Imphal, Aug. 2: Director General of Police (DGP) Mukesh Singh today reviewed the prevailing law and order situation in Imphal West during a meeting with police officers at the Office of the Superintendent of Police. During the review, the Imphal West SP briefed the DGP on crime trends, policing initiatives and the overall security situation in the district. Stressing the need for proactive and intelligence-based policing, Mukesh Singh directed officers to ensure prompt and professional investigation of criminal cases, particularly those related to narcotic drugs, extortion and illegal arms. He also emphasised improving the quality of investigations to secure effective prosecution and convictions. The DGP urged officers to uphold professionalism and integrity while strengthening public confidence through efficient and people-friendly policing. He further called upon the police force to remain vigilant against emerging security challenges and continue working towards maintaining peace, law and order across the district.

Fourteen CSOs Warn of Statewide Shutdown Over Delay in NRC Updation

Imphal, Aug. 2: Fourteen civil society organisations under the banner of 14 CSOs of Kangleipak have warned the Manipur Government that they will enforce a statewide total shutdown from midnight of August 9 if the government fails to expedite action on their agreed demands, including the updation of the National Register of Citizens (NRC), by August 8. The warning was issued during a press conference held at the IPSA Office in Keishampat. Convenor Santa Nahakpam said representatives of the organisations recently met senior leaders of the Central Government in New Delhi and later held discussions with officials of the Manipur Home Department. According to the CSOs, the Home Department had assured them that a public consultation involving all stakeholders on the NRC issue would be held during the first week of August. Alleging that no concrete steps have been taken so far, the organisations urged the government to immediately initiate the promised process or face the proposed statewide shutdown.

MMTU Alleges Attempt to Include Illegal Immigrants in Census

Imphal, Aug. 2: The Meetei-Meitei Tribe Union (MMTU) has accused the Centre and the Manipur Government of attempting to include illegal immigrants residing in the state in the ongoing census process. In a statement issued today, the organisation alleged that the governments were trying to facilitate the settlement of illegal immigrants instead of taking steps to identify and deport them. MMTU claimed that despite repeated demands from indigenous communities, the authorities have failed to initiate effective measures to detect and remove illegal immigrants from the state. The organisation expressed concern that such actions could adversely affect the demographic balance and interests of the indigenous population. Reiterating its demand, MMTU urged both the Centre and the State Government to take immediate steps to identify, detect and deport illegal immigrants while safeguarding the rights and interests of the indigenous people of Manipur.

Congress Alleges BJP Ignoring Muslim Community in Ministerial Representation

Imphal, Aug. 2: Manipur Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) General Secretary P. Saratchandra has alleged that the BJP-led governments at the Centre and in Manipur have sidelined the minority Muslim community by not appointing any elected Muslim representative as a Minister. Addressing a Minority Leaders' Meet organised by the Heingang Block Congress Committee at Kairang Muslim, Saratchandra claimed that despite Muslims constituting around 17 per cent of India's population, no elected Muslim representative has been included in the Union Council of Ministers under the BJP-led Central Government. Referring to Manipur, he alleged that repeated demands for appointing a Muslim MLA as a Cabinet Minister have been ignored, even though representatives from other communities have been accommodated. Saratchandra contrasted the BJP's approach with previous Congress governments, claiming they ensured inclusive representation. Newly inducted Congress members were also welcomed into the party during the programme.

Shiv Sena Demands NRC Updation Before Next Elections

Imphal, Aug. 2: Shiv Sena Manipur Pradesh President M. Tombi has urged the NDA leadership to complete the updation of the National Register of Citizens (NRC) in Manipur before the next elections. Addressing a press conference at the party's state office in Babupara, Tombi said he met Shiv Sena National President Eknath Shinde and other party leaders in New Delhi on July 28 to press the demand. He said discussions also covered the upcoming Local Body and Manipur Assembly elections, including the possibility of Shiv Sena contesting seats in alliance with NDA partners. Tombi informed that the party submitted a memorandum to the Prime Minister through Eknath Shinde seeking free movement along Manipur's National Highways, creation of a Highway Protection Force to safeguard transport routes, and identification of illegal immigrants. He said the national leadership assured efforts to retain the NDA government in the state.

Former MLA Kh. Loken Calls for People's Movement to Restore Peace

Imphal, Aug. 2: Former Sagolband MLA Khwairakpam Loken today called for a united people's movement to press those in power to address public hardships and restore lasting peace in Manipur. Speaking at a Booth Level Women's Coordination and Interaction Programme organised by the Sagolband Mahila Block Congress Committee, Loken said women play a vital role in society and should actively participate in efforts to bring positive change. He criticised the government for failing to effectively address key issues, including restrictions on movement along National Highways, the plight of internally displaced persons (IDPs), and the state's deteriorating economic condition. He also welcomed recent peace initiatives undertaken by Zomi leaders, who visited Imphal to meet the Chief Minister, expressing hope that such efforts would contribute to reconciliation and stability in the state.

Chief Justice Stresses Timely Access to Justice at Legal Aid Programme

IImphal, Aug. 2: Chief Justice of the High Court of Manipur, Justice M. Sundar, today emphasised that justice delayed cannot be considered true justice and said timely access to justice is a fundamental constitutional principle. He was speaking at a one-day Capacity Building Programme for Legal Aid Defence Counsels, Panel Lawyers and Remand Lawyers organised by the Manipur State Legal Services Authority (MASLSA) at the High Court of Manipur. Justice Sundar highlighted that Article 39A of the Constitution obligates the State to provide free legal aid so that no individual is denied justice due to financial or social disadvantages. He urged legal aid counsels and advocates to uphold this constitutional responsibility with commitment and professionalism. The programme also featured lectures by Justice A. Guneshwar on legal drafting and MASLSA Member Ch. Momon on the role and responsibilities of legal aid defence counsels.

Pony Organisations Raise Alarm as Manipuri Pony Population Drops Below 1,000

Imphal, Aug. 2: The Manipur Horse Riding and Polo Association (MHRPA), along with several pony welfare organisations, has expressed serious concern over the sharp decline in the population of the indigenous Manipuri Pony, claiming that fewer than 1,000 remain in the state. Addressing a joint press conference at the Manipur Press Club, MHRPA General Secretary K. Dhanachandra alleged that pony theft and the illegal trade in pony meat are the primary reasons behind the decline. He said several FIRs have been lodged with the police but alleged that no effective action has been taken against those involved. The organisations demanded strict enforcement of the Wildlife (Protection) Act and warned that the continued disappearance of ponies threatens ongoing efforts to preserve the iconic breed and the state's polo heritage. They also announced plans to inspect meat markets and initiate legal action against anyone found trading in pony meat.

IRB Recruitment Candidates Protest Delay in Declaration of Results

Imphal, Aug. 2: Candidates who appeared for the recruitment examination of the 10th and 11th India Reserve Battalion (IRB) MR Jemadar posts staged a sit-in protest at Keishampat Leimajam Leikai today, demanding immediate declaration of the examination results. Holding placards, the protesters expressed frustration over the prolonged delay in completing the recruitment process. According to the candidates, the physical efficiency test was conducted in 2019, followed by the written examination in 2020, but the final results have not been announced even after more than seven years. One of the candidates, Robertson Chingtham, said the recruitment process was originally expected to be completed within three months. He alleged that repeated appeals to the authorities have gone unanswered and urged the government to declare the results without further delay to end the uncertainty faced by the candidates.

DMCC Felicitates Manipuri Weightlifters After Commonwealth Games Success

Imphal, Aug. 2: The Delhi Meetei Coordinating Committee (DMCC) felicitated members of the Indian weightlifting contingent at the Indira Gandhi International Airport following their successful campaign at the Commonwealth Games. The 16-member contingent included five athletes from Manipur—Mirabai Chanu, Bindiyarani Devi, Nirupama, Martina and Rishikanta Singh—along with coach Nafisha. DMCC congratulated the Manipuri lifters for bringing laurels to the country through their outstanding performances on the international stage. Mirabai Chanu won the gold medal, while Rishikanta Singh secured silver and Bindiyarani Devi claimed bronze in their respective weight categories. The committee described the achievements of the athletes as a source of pride for both Manipur and the nation and extended its best wishes for their future international competitions.

Sailex Urges Business-Oriented Approach to Fashion Industry

Imphal, Aug. 2: Renowned Manipuri fashion designer Sailex Ngairangbam has called for transforming fashion shows in Manipur into business-oriented platforms capable of promoting local designers in national markets. Speaking on the third day of the Kai Fashion Weekend – Autumn/Winter 2026 at the City Convention Centre, Palace Compound, Sailex said fashion events in the state are often viewed only as cultural programmes or entertainment, limiting opportunities for designers to commercialise their creations. He stressed that the collections showcased during the event are intended to be marketed through national retail outlets, enabling designers to reach wider audiences. The fashion showcase also featured collections by BB Jewellery, Nupi, Deesha Thesong, Moh by Pohit Patel, Rum by Silvia and Abhichiq. Thangmeiband MLA Khumukcham Joykishan attended the programme as the chief guest.

Imphal, August 2: The first round of counselling for admission to MBBS and other undergraduate medical courses under the All India Quota (AIQ) will begin on August 4, while the academic session for the 2026–27 batch is scheduled to commence on September 8. According to the Medical Counselling Committee (MCC) information bulletin, counselling for deemed and central universities will be conducted from August 4 to August 17, with the last date for candidates to join allotted colleges fixed as August 22. The registration process will be held from August 5 to August 12, while choice filling and locking will take place from August 6 to August 13. The seat allotment result for the first round will be announced on August 17. For state quota seats, the first round of counselling is scheduled from August 13 to August 22, and candidates must complete admission formalities by August 28. The second round of counselling for deemed and central universities will be conducted from August 24 to September 2, followed by the third round from September 10 to September 18. A stray vacancy round has been scheduled from September 28 to October 3, with the final deadline for joining allotted institutions set for October 10. The MCC has directed all participating institutions and state counselling authorities to treat Saturdays, Sundays and gazetted holidays as working days to ensure that the counselling process is completed within the prescribed timeline.