Manipur governor calls for peace, resilience in Independence Day address

IMPHAL — The 79th Independence Day was celebrated across Manipur on Thursday, with the state-level function held at the 1st Manipur Rifles Parade Ground, Imphal. Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla unfurled the National Flag, inspected the guard of honour, and took the salute during a grand march past by 33 contingents, commanded by Commandant Pramesh Arambam of the 4th Indian Reserve Battalion (IRB).

Addressing the gathering, the governor said the occasion was not only a commemoration of India’s hard-won freedom but also a solemn reminder of the responsibilities of every citizen in a free, united, and democratic nation. He noted that the Indian freedom struggle was shaped by the country’s diversity, with Manipur playing a proud role. Recalling the Anglo-Manipur War of 1891 and the First and Second Nupi Lal of 1904 and 1939, he lauded the historic contributions of Manipuri women, which continue to inspire generations.

Bhalla said that since Independence in 1947, India had emerged from the shadows of Partition and poverty to become the world’s largest democracy and one of the fastest-growing economies. Manipur, he added, has also made steady progress in social welfare, infrastructure, and economic empowerment.

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He highlighted initiatives such as the Hunar Se Rozgar scheme, skill development training for internally displaced persons (IDPs), and expanded border fencing to strengthen law and order. He informed that a timeline had been set for the safe and dignified return of IDPs to their homes.

Other initiatives mentioned included the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan, workplace harassment prevention measures, the “Back to School” initiative for Self-Help Groups, and operationalisation of 11 IT centres in violence-affected districts. The government, he said, is also implementing awareness campaigns under the Dharti Aaba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan (PM-DAJGUA) in hill districts, focusing on sustainable development of tribal communities.

Bhalla highlighted the recently launched Rs. 1 lakh crore PM Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana, describing it as a transformative step for the nation’s youth, and urged Manipuri youth to actively seize this opportunity.

He underscored the Union government’s special allocation of over INR. 2,800 crore for Manipur, including infrastructure, public services, and rehabilitation of displaced persons, and called on citizens to work together in a spirit of peace and brotherhood.

The celebration saw participation from contingents of the Jakli Army, Assam Rifles, BSF, CRPF, Manipur Rifles, IRB (male and female), Assam Armed Police, Combined Civil Police, Jail Department, Forest Department, Home Guard, and VDF. Also taking part were the Manipur Fire Service, Traffic Police, NCC, NCC Air Wing, Sainik School, and various schools. Band displays were presented by the CRPF, 1st and 2nd MR, 1st IRB, Home Guard, IW VDF, and Sainik School.

On the occasion, several officers and personnel were honoured. Elangbam Bhubaneshwor Singh received the President's Medal for Distinguished Service (Republic Day 2024). The Police Medal for Meritorious Service was awarded to Inspector General of Police (Int/NAB) K. Kabib, Inspector (CID-Special Branch) Oinam Premananda Singh, and Assistant Sub-Inspector Laishram Ramkumar Singh (Ukhrul District Police).

For Independence Day 2024, the Police Medal for Meritorious Service was conferred on Maibam Somorjit Singh (Jemadar, 1st IRB), Chalamba Singh Ngangom (ASI, Senapati District Police), Ashok Singh Oinam (Havildar, 8th Manipur Rifles), Bonomali Singh Khangembam (Havildar, 6th IRB), Rojen Singh Mayanglambam (Havildar, 10th IRB), Nongthombam Biseswor Singh (Rifleman, 4th IRB), Premjit Singh Potshangbam (Rifleman, 6th IRB), and Rinkahao Ruivah (Rifleman, 6th Manipur Rifles).

The celebration concluded with cultural performances showcasing Manipur’s rich traditions and heritage.