Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, January 14 2009:
As in the past years, Drivers' Day, the 20th time this year, was held today amid an atmosphere of nostalgia with the main highlights being paying fitting homage to all the drivers and handymen who have passed away as well as those who have retired from service.
The day started with the offering of floral tributes at the photos of the departed drivers and handymen by family members and their colleagues with many of the retired drivers and handymen recalling their days of joy and sorrow during their active days.
Different drivers' bodies organised the day at different venues, with the Manipur Drivers' Welfare Association holding a function at Kangla Hall today.
Transport Minister L Jayantakumar who attended the function as chief guest observed that transporters and drivers play a major role in the development of the place and added that no one should forget their invaluable service.
The Minister assured that apart from doing something for the drivers as a Minister, he would put in his personal efforts to better their lot.
Project Director of MACS Dr Ksh Pramodkumar, ATOWA president H Ranjit attended as guests of honour while Dr NK Nando Singh, K Nilo Singh of Dealer and Transporter Oil Corporation, Ksh Thoiba Singh, Area Manager FCI, Abhiram Mongjam, Joint Director TI and Y Lokeshore Singh secretary of MTOWA were the special guests.
President of Manipur Drivers' Welfare Association M Ibohal presided over the function.
The All Manipur Petroleum Tankers' Drivers' Union also observed the day at Sangakpham.
MLA I Hemochandra attended as the chief guest while MLA Dr Ratankumar and Senior Depot Manager of IOC Kh Ibobi were the guests of honour.
The president of the Union Y Bhupendra Ghosh presided over the
function.
The All Manipur Road Transport Drivers' and Motor Workers' Union also observed the day at the Sinam Shama Devi Town Hall located at Chingmeirong Maning Leikai.
Health Minister Ph Parijat attended the function as the chief guest while Deputy Labour Commissioner NS Gokulmani was the guest of honour.
Acting president of Assam Motor Workers' Union Dilip K AND president of the Senapati District Drivers' Union Kapani were the special guests while the president of the Union, S Manglem presided over the function.