Vice-President CP Radhakrishnan visited the INA Museum at Moirang and Sainik School Imphal during his one-day visit to Manipur, paying tribute to freedom fighters and interacting with students.
IMPHAL — Vice-President of India CP Radhakrishnan arrived in Imphal on Tuesday as part of his four-day visit to the northeastern states.
Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla, Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh and Deputy Chief Minister Losii Dikho received the Vice-President at Imphal International Airport at around 10.30 am.
After attending a reception programme at the airport, Radhakrishnan proceeded to the Indian National Army (INA) Museum at Moirang, around 45 km south of Imphal.
During his visit, the Vice-President visited the historic site where the Indian Tricolour was first hoisted on the Indian mainland by the INA.
He also toured the INA War Museum gallery and paid floral tribute to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose.
Speaking at the school in Moirang, Radhakrishnan recalled the historic role played by the INA in India’s freedom struggle. He noted that freedom fighters from across the country, including many from Tamil Nadu, had joined the INA and made the supreme sacrifice for the nation.
Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla, Home Minister Govindas Konthoujam, Arts and Culture Minister Kh Loken and MLA Th Shanti were also present during the Vice-President’s visit to Moirang.
As part of his one-day itinerary in Manipur, Radhakrishnan also visited Sainik School Imphal at Pangei in Imphal East district, where he participated in a series of cultural and public engagements.
Following his address at the school, the Vice-President interacted briefly with the students and answered a few questions.
Addressing the cadets, Radhakrishnan described the Northeast as an integral and beautiful part of India and praised the hard work and contributions of its people.
He encouraged the students to retain their goodness while adapting to change, observing that change is the only constant in the world.
Responding to a question about his visit to the Cellular Jail in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Radhakrishnan encouraged the students to visit the historic site to understand the hardships endured by India’s freedom fighters. He said such visits inspire patriotism and remind the younger generation of the sacrifices made during the freedom struggle.
On the role of students in building a developed India, the Vice-President said every student could contribute by performing their duties to the best of their ability each day.
He emphasised that individual efforts, when collectively undertaken, would contribute to the realisation of Viksit Bharat.
Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla and Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh also addressed the gathering.