ICHAM celebrates 2nd anniversary
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, March 27 2010: Distribution of CGI sheets to 25 beneficiaries selected from among economically unsound families of five hill districts marked the second foundation anniversary celebration of Information Centre for Hill Areas Manipur (ICHAM) held today at manipur Press Club.

ICHAM president N Rajendro also announced financial assistance of Rs 10,000 to Sanaleibak daily reporter Naobi, who is recuperating from an injury suffered in a motor mishap.

The amount would be in the form of a fixed deposit.

Presenting the key-note address, Rajendro opined that existence of 44 armed groups in Manipur which is home to about 36 communities/tribes is an indication that there is no more trust between one community and another.

Dignitaries at the second anniversary celebration of ICHAM

Construing that such inimical mindset is an impediment to overall advancement of the manipuri society, he suggested that NGOs and civil society organisations need to strive for development of the State in a constant manner rather than exhibit their commitment based on specific issues.

Asserting that during ICHAM's sojourns to the hill district areas the general notion of animosity between the hill and valley people had been negated, Rajendro described as cosmetic the tall claims being made by NGO functionaries from the capital city rather than reach out to the hill people and understand their problems.

He affirmed that ICHAM would relentlessly work for an egalitarian society.

Speaking as the chief guest, senior journalist Madhumangol attributed successes of the ICHAM campaigns in the hill districts to cooperation of the locals.

Without positive response from the local population no amount of effort would yield the desired result, he added.

Editor of the Sangai Express (Manipuri edition) Khogendra Khomdram expressed remorse that continuous endeavour of ICHAM for atleast some socio-economic development of the hill people is being interpreted in a negative way.

The editor also pointed out that mere lip service could not revive the age-old cordiality between the hill and plain people.

Huiyen Lanpao (English edition) editor Brozendra Ningombam, who also spoke on the occasion highlighted that there are many citizens in the hill areas who are naive with regard to existence of an elected Government owing to absolute absence of either the Government machinery or activities that could be attributed to the Government.

Hailing activities of ICHAM in the remote pockets of Manipur's hill districts as an invaluable service to the deprived section of the society, Brozendra noted that rather than the MLAs, efforts of NGOs for welfare of the hill people are more in evidence.

Ireibak daily editor Irengbam Arun in his address, emphasised on launch of awareness campaigns on right to information Act so as to enable the hill people enjoy their due share as well as to clear the concept of valley people infringing on benefits meant for the hills.

Activities of ICHAM were also highlighted through distribution of leaflets on the occasion.