Our Correspondent
Imphal, Nov. 22 (EMN): The President of India Ram Nath Kovind on Wednesday visited the Indian National Army (INA) Memorial Complex, Moirang in Bishnupur district, the place where the Indian Tricolour flag was hoisted for the first time on the Indian soil on April 14, 1944.
On the occasion, President Kovind paid floral tribute at the statue of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose at INA complex.
The President who was airlifted by the Indian Air force helicopters from Imphal for Moirang was accompanied by first lady of the country Savita Kovind and an entourage that included officials of Rashtrapati Bhawan, Governor of Manipur Dr Najma Heptulla, Chief Miniser N Biren Singh, Cabinet Ministers and MLAs.
The President also visited the INA Museum located within the INA Memorial Complex. The President was briefed by the officials of the department of Art and Culture, Government of Manipur about the history of INA soldiers and the Battles of Imphal that happened during the second world war.
The President wrote on the visitor’s book of the Museum, “I offer my humble tribute to the brave soldiers of the Indian National Army who made supreme sacrifices to liberate Mother India under exemplary leadership of Netaji Subash Chandra Bose. This monument reminds us of the valour of the INA and makes us commit ourselves to the service of the Nation.”
It is worth mentioning that President Ram Nath Kovind is the second President of India to visit INA Memorial Complex after President VV Giri who visited the Complex on Oct. 21, 1972.
The President arrived at Imphal on his maiden visit after becoming President on Tue. and inaugurated the North East Development Summit 2017 and Manipur Sangai Festival 2017 at City convention centre and Bhagyachandra open air theatre both located at palace compound in Imphal.
