Items filtered by date: Tuesday, 25 August 2026

CM Calls for Unity to Protect Manipur

Imphal, August 25: Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand has called for unity among all communities to protect Manipur and restore peace and normalcy. Speaking at the 45th Hawkers’ Day organised by the Manipur Hawkers’ Association at Lainingthou Sanamahi Temple, Haying Khongbal, the Chief Minister said the state has been built and safeguarded over thousands of years through the collective efforts of its people. He said while most people want peace, some elements continue to oppose the restoration of normalcy. Khemchand stressed that the government alone cannot prevent wrongdoing and appealed for public cooperation with authorities. Pension amounts were also handed to two retired hawkers, while three women hawkers were felicitated.

Excise Department Marks 79th Raising Day

Imphal August 25: The Manipur Excise Department observed its 79th Raising Day at its Lamphel headquarters today. Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand praised the department for its contribution to state revenue despite financial challenges. He said the department collected around Rs 29 crore in revenue from March 2026 till date. The Chief Minister also highlighted the gradual restoration of normalcy, citing the smooth resumption of passenger services along National Highway-2. Awards and cash prizes were presented to officers in charge of six best-performing excise stations and other meritorious personnel. The department’s Male Contingent Team, NIC Imphal team and young athletes Ariha Pangambam and Anjori Pangambam were also felicitated.

CRPF Conducts Combing Operation in Taphou

Senapati, August 25: Security forces conducted an extensive house-to-house combing operation at Taphou Liangmai village and adjoining areas, including Taphou Kuki village, today following yesterday’s clash between two communities. A CRPF CoBRA unit led the operation, with personnel from the district police and women personnel of the CRPF also participating. The operation was conducted following an exchange of fire in which a CRPF personnel was injured. No untoward incident or confrontation with villagers was reported during today’s search. Security forces have intensified operations in the area and maintained a strong deployment to prevent any further escalation. No fresh unwanted incident has been reported so far.

Arms and Ammunition Recovered in Kangpokpi

Kangpokpi, August 25: A combined team of Manipur Police, CRPF, RAF and CoBRA recovered a large quantity of arms and ammunition during a search operation at J. Songtun village yesterday. The security forces recovered 1,225 rounds of 12-bore ammunition, two country-made 12-bore guns and 14 other 12-bore guns bearing various manufacturer, serial and licence markings. Six VHF/wireless sets along with three chargers were also seized. The operation further led to the recovery of a Golden Antler telescope and 18 bulletproof vests and pouches. Security agencies are continuing investigations to establish the source and intended use of the recovered weapons and equipment.

Census Training Disrupted in Tengnoupal

Tengnoupal, August 25: Training for Census Enumerators and Supervisors at Kuraopokpi was disrupted today amid the ongoing Campaign for Just and Fair Delimitation agitation. Government employees from different parts of the district had gathered at St. Joseph Higher Secondary School around 9 am for the training. However, members of the Chandel Naga Peoples Organisation, Maring Uparup Assembly and JFD Task Force, under the aegis of the United Naga Council, reportedly blocked their entry. The school authorities also objected to conducting the training amid the protest, following which the trainees left the site. Personnel from Machi Police Station later inspected the area.

JFD Warns Against Census Training

Imphal, August 25: The Campaign for Just and Fair Delimitation has opposed the reported training of Census Enumerators and Supervisors scheduled from August 26 to 28, saying it goes against the ongoing public demand for NRC updation before the Census. Speaking to the media at Citizens’ Club, Soibam Leikai, JFD Secretary Organisation Longjam Ratankumar said conducting the Census in the present situation was inappropriate and accused the government of ignoring the public agitation. He warned that if the reported training at GM Hall in Imphal is held, the JFD and the public would consider it an insult to the people. He also cautioned those conducting the training.

Wangkhei Groups Announce Census Boycott

Imphal, August 25: Peace Committee Wangkhei Kendra, comprising 34 clubs, has announced a boycott of the Census across Wangkhei Assembly Constituency in support of the JFD-led agitation. Speaking at a press conference at Citizen Club, Wangkhei Khunou, Soibam Leikai, Co-Convenor Th. Dijen said conducting the Census in the present situation was unjustified, particularly when many indigenous people remain displaced from their homes. He said people have been demanding NRC updation before the Census and urged MLAs and Ministers to acknowledge public sentiment. The committee warned that government officials or employees involved in Census-related training or activities in Wangkhei AC would face consequences.

TG School Students Protest Census Plans

Imphal, August 25: Students of TG Higher Secondary School attempted to march towards Lok Bhavan today, demanding that the Census not be conducted in Manipur before NRC updation. The students, under the aegis of the JFD Students’ Wing, left the school premises around 1:30 pm carrying banners and placards bearing slogans including “NO NRC, NO CENSUS.” A large contingent of police personnel led by Imphal West SP Ksh. Shivakanta stopped the students near Lok Bhavan and prevented them from proceeding further. The students subsequently returned and concluded their march in front of the school, where they continued raising slogans in support of their demand.

Five Organisations Seek NRC Before Census

Imphal, August 25: AMUCO, AMAWOVA, PLMPAM, COHR and MSF have urged the State Government to take appropriate decisions during the September Assembly session to protect the interests of Manipur and its people. Speaking at a joint press meet at the AMUCO office in Kwakeithel, AMUCO President and convenor of the five organisations Sanjoy Sorokhaibam demanded NRC updation with 1951 as the base year before the Census. He said the five organisations, along with the people of Manipur, have resolved that the Census should not be conducted without NRC updation. They also urged the government to prevent the inclusion of outsiders who entered the state in the Census.

JFD Urges CM to Press Centre on NRC

Thoubal, August 25: The Campaign for Just and Fair Delimitation has urged Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand to immediately visit New Delhi and press Central leaders for NRC updation in Manipur before the Census. Speaking at a public meeting at Thoubal Athokpam Bazar, JFD Finance Secretary Sunil Karam warned that failure to address the demand could trigger an agitation more intense than the June 18, 2001 uprising. He said MLAs currently in New Delhi must clearly convey the people’s demands to Central leaders and cautioned that their visits should not be merely symbolic. Sunil also held the State Government and Chief Minister responsible for any serious consequences arising from the ongoing protests.

Wabagai Students Demand Filling of Vacancies

Kakching, August 25: The Students’ Union of Wabagai Higher Secondary School has urged authorities to immediately fill vacant teaching and staff posts and address infrastructure shortages at the institution. Speaking at a press meet at the school, Finance Secretary Rani Moijing said the school, upgraded to Higher Secondary level in 2021, continues to face several shortages. Although the posting of 13 teachers has improved the situation, the posts of Principal and Vice Principal have remained vacant for nearly four months. Vacancies also remain in Physics, Geography, Anthropology and Economics. The students’ union also sought a cycle shed and proper fencing and warned of intensified agitation if the demands remain unaddressed.

Demand to Restore Machi SDO Office

Tengnoupal, August 25: The shifting of the Machi Sub-Divisional Office to a temporary facility at Khangshim village near Kakching Lamkhai has reportedly caused inconvenience to the public. During an inspection of the SDO office, ICDS office, Tengnoupal Police Station, bank and roads at Machi Sub-Divisional Headquarters, social worker TK Moshilpha urged authorities to restore the office to its original complex at the earliest. He said Machi, an important subdivision for the Naga community, has remained neglected, with most staff staying at the temporary office since 2023. Moshilpha also urged authorities to strengthen Machi PHC and make it functional round the clock and address healthcare requirements at Khunbi village.

Poirei Leimarol Meira Paibi Marks 41st Foundation Day

Imphal, August 25: Poirei Leimarol Meira Paibi Apunba Manipur observed its 41st Foundation Day at Khoyathong Pukhri Achouba Mapal Community Hall today. Floral tributes were paid to late Meira Paibi leaders during the programme attended by office-bearers and representatives of various civil society organisations. General Secretary Th. Apabi Leima recalled the organisation’s emergence in the 1980s as a resistance movement against alleged atrocities under AFSPA. She called upon the people to remain united and work towards safeguarding Manipur’s territorial integrity. The organisation reaffirmed its commitment to social issues and the continued participation of women in protecting the interests of the state.

Five Manipuris Honoured With National Awards

New Delhi, August 25: Five distinguished individuals from Manipur have been honoured by the Salute Achievers Honourable Foundation, New Delhi, for their contributions in different fields. Ningombam Usharani received the Salute Achievers Award and an Honorary Doctorate in Nat Sankirtana. Maisnam Bijenkumar was conferred the Salute Achievers Honourable Foundation Youth Award in the Teaching Profession. Sanasam Robita received the Women Empowerment Award and an Honorary Doctorate in Handloom and Handicraft, while Sanasam Rebika was honoured with the Women Empowerment Award in Handloom and Handicraft. The awards were presented at a programme held at Constitution Club in New Delhi last evening.

UPI Completes 10 Years

New Delhi, August 25: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has hailed the Unified Payments Interface as a major turning point in India’s digital payment journey as UPI completes a decade since its launch on August 25, 2016. Launched by the National Payments Corporation of India under RBI oversight, UPI has emerged as a key pillar of the country’s digital payments ecosystem. Annual UPI transactions have increased from 1.78 crore in 2016-17 to more than 24,162 crore in 2025-26. UPI has also expanded to 11 countries and processed transactions worth over Rs 29.87 lakh crore in July alone. The Prime Minister invited citizens to share their experiences of using UPI.

New Zealand Moves to Ban Social Media for Under-16s

Wellington, August 25: New Zealand’s government has introduced legislation aimed at preventing children under 16 from using social media platforms. The move follows Australia’s implementation of legislation in December 2025 prohibiting children under 16 from accessing social media. Other countries, including the United Kingdom, France and Norway, have also considered or introduced measures to restrict children’s access to social media. Regulations vary from outright restrictions to requirements for parental consent. Platforms including TikTok, Instagram and Snapchat have come under scrutiny amid growing concerns about children’s online safety and wellbeing. New Zealand’s proposed legislation is now expected to go through the parliamentary process before any restrictions take effect.

Hockey Tournament Underway at Khuman Lampak

Imphal, August 25: League-round matches of the State-Level Jawaharlal Nehru Hockey Tournament are underway at Khuman Lampak Hockey Stadium under the Department of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of Manipur. In the Under-15 Boys category, Young Pioneers English School Imphal East defeated Bishnupur Higher Secondary School 8-0, while Bishnupur Higher Secondary School later defeated Brilliant Academy Thoubal 5-0. Keisham Birjit Singh High School defeated Hill Cross English School Jiribam 6-0, and Young Pioneers English School beat Brilliant Academy Thoubal 7-1. In the Under-17 Boys category, Jiribam Higher Secondary School defeated Khurai Popular High School Imphal East 2-1.

Taekwondo Coach Licensing Programme Begins

Imphal, August 25: A five-day State Coach Licence Programme under the aegis of the All Manipur Taekwondo Association began today at the Indoor Hall of the National Sports Academy, Khuman Lampak Sports Complex. A total of 72 coaches, including 47 men and 25 women from different Taekwondo units across Manipur, are participating. Association President Th. Jasobanta, General Secretary Rajkumari Haripyari, L. Tutu and Ng. Sunita are serving as resource persons. Haripyari said the programme aims to produce more qualified coaches and help groom young talents capable of competing at international events. Taekwondo was pioneered in Manipur by A. Indrakumar, regarded by many as the father of the sport in the state.

Thoubal to Host National Sports Day Programme

Thoubal, August 25: Thoubal district is preparing to host the National Sports Day programme on August 27 at Thoubal College and Waikhom Mani Girls’ College. As part of Viksit Bharat Yuva Connect – Sports Edition, a special interaction involving Prime Minister Narendra Modi, youth, students and sportspersons will also be organised. MY Bharat Thoubal District Youth Officer Vishal Dhakad said the flagship programme will be held at around 1,600 locations, with nearly eight lakh youths expected to participate. He said the initiative aims to bring young people and sportspersons together to exchange ideas and contribute towards nation-building. Thoubal College Principal Prof. Dr A. Nabachandra and Teachers’ Association President Nahakpam Ibobi also attended the briefing.

Chandel College Prepares for National Sports Day

Chandel, August 25: United College, Chandel is preparing to observe National Sports Day on August 27 through its NSS Unit. A press conference was held at the college today ahead of the programme, which will mark the birth anniversary of legendary Indian hockey player Major Dhyan Chand. NSS Programme Officer Dr Augustine Roel said this year’s celebration will be conducted under the nationwide Khelo India Samwad initiative. The programme will focus on youth participation, sports development and nation-building. The college is expected to organise activities aimed at encouraging students to take a greater interest in sports and promoting the importance of physical activity and sporting excellence among young people.

Singjamei Kangkhut Beats AKU Kangkhut

Imphal, August 25: Singjamei Kangkhut defeated AKU Kangkhut Thangmeiband 7-2 in the fifth league match of the second Shree Shree Gopaldev Trophy Leimarol Kang League Tournament today. The match was played at Shree Shree Gopaldev Mandop Kangshang, Yaiskul. The tournament is being jointly organised by Gopaldev Kangkhut and Yaiskul Kangkhut. Singjamei Kangkhut dominated the match to secure a convincing victory and strengthen its position in the league. Yaiskul Kangkhut will face Singjamei Kangkhut in the sixth league match scheduled for September 2. The tournament continues to provide competitive opportunities for Kangkhuts while promoting the traditional sport among players and spectators.