The Manipuris in this 21st century have paved the way for themselves that a handful of Manipuris are doing very well in various fields and are based in U.S., U.K., European Countries and other parts of the world. These people are the pioneers for the future generation of the people of Manipur. They are not the creamy layers of this society but they are the Elites and they are well off. Scientists, Academicians, Engineers, Doctors, Businessmen, Theologists etc. are few of the areas where hundreds of Manipuris have chosen to etch out their living and advancement. They are, arguably, the most hard working group who has adapted themselves to the ways of an advanced life (Disciplined work culture, life style & Information technology).
After the World War II, the Japanese economy collapsed and they had nothing to start with. But, the Japanese living abroad sacrificed their well-paid jobs and came back to Japan. They brought everything they had to their motherland (Technology, money) to start the development all over again from the scratch. The general public, aware of the facts, rationed food and joined hands to plan their economy and it's development. The development and the infrastructure they have built, today, is due to the public understanding and support. The devotion, discipline and the work culture of the Japanese people are definitely a lesson to be learnt.
The general public uprising during the French revolution or in all revolutions of the developed countries have shown that without the help of the mass, it might not be possible to bring about a great change to the ongoing order. So, the time is very much ripe to unite us in building up a disciplined society. The Manipuri bureaucrats should also unite themselves in working out a super plan to develop this tiny land lock we refer to as our motherland. Lack of Planning and inter departmental co-operation and co-ordination in the State is an area to start with for reformations.
Education and the system failure in the state need immediate rectification since they are the backbone of this generation and society. Discipline, devotion, kindness, affection and hard work are a basic foundation for these pillars of tomorrow's generation.
The recently concluded convention of the International Manipuri Association, at Chorus Repertory Theatre, Imphal have shown the general public that the Manipuris living abroad are keen to develop Manipur, in all respects. These elite forces are working out a programme to sponsor Manipuris who are willing to work and continue studies abroad. The European Manipuri Association, based in U.K. is also guiding Manipuris. These programs can help more Manipuris to get exposed to new technologies, learn about developed nations so as to be able to contribute towards a better tomorrow of Manipur.
* Anyone who is interested in finding out more about IMA and other possibilities talked about in this article may kindly contact the author at [email protected] for more details/direction. Shri H Sashi Sekhar Sharma is a member of IMA and was a key person in the organizing of the IMA annual meet at Imphal in October 2002.
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