Biren sings paeans tn bravery of Manipuri women
Source: Chronicle News Service / DIPR

Imphal, December 12 2024: Manipur observed Nupi Lal Numit, 2024 with chief minister N Biren Singh leading ministers, MLA and senior officials in paying floral tribute to the departed women freedom fighters at the Nupi Lal Memorial Complex, here, on Thursday.

A formal function was also held at the GP Women's College Central Hall, after paying the floral tributes at the Memorial Complex, with CM Biren as the chief guest and minister Th Biswajit Singh as president of the observance.

Oinam MLA Nalini Devi, Chandel MLA SS Olish and Naoriya Pakhanglakpa MLA Sagolshem Kebi Devi also shared the dais as guests of honour respectively.

Reflecting on the on-going crisis in the state during his address at the tribute event, CM N Biren asserted that the state and central governments have been putting in all efforts to bring a permanent solution.

However, resolving the crisis will take time as the situation has become chronic and fragile, he conceded.

The chief minister informed that the state government in coordination with central forces is making concerted efforts to track Laishram Kamalbabu, who went missing from the Leimakhong Army campus.

Regarding re imposition of AFSPA in areas under six police stations, Biren informed that the state government had requested the central government to review and repeal AFSPA from the said police stations.

He then sought cooperation and support from the public in the government's effort to restore peace and tranquillity in the state.

Elaborating on Nupi Lal Numit, he said every year the commemorative event is organised by the government as well as civil societies to remember the role played by the brave Manipuri women in 1904 and 1939, revolting against the injustice of British imperialism.

He continued that apart from the contribution of women during the two epochal movements, one shouldn't forget the bravery and courage shown by Manipuri women in other instances including ousting the Burmese (Awa) during the Seven Years' Devastation period (1819-1826).The CM further mentioned that the bravery and courage could also be seen among present-day women of the state, as they had been leading from the forefront in every issue pertaining to the safety of the people.

He spoke on the contribution of Manipuri women in certain sectors including social, economic, art and culture, hospitality and games and sports among others, apart from their household activities.

He expressed elation that cultural performances by women in different national and international events had shown the uniqueness of Manipuri culture across the world.

Biren informed that the state government, in acknowledging the hard work and commitment of women, had introduced certain women welfare schemes including 'Ima Nongthangleima Yaipha Tengbang Scheme', providing financial assistance of Rs 500 per month to unemployed women who are above the age of 40 years.

He further informed that Ima markets had been constructed in every district of the state, considering the role of women in economic activities.

"Financial assistance had also been given to women sports persons in establishing training institutes, to provide training to young athletes in their respective disciplines," he stated.

Biren also highlighted initiatives of the central government under PM Narendra Modi in passing the Women's Reservation Bill 2023 in the Parliament as well as initiatives taken up by the state government for students including Chief Minister's Scholarship for Civil Service Coaching, Chief Minister's Coaching Scheme for Entrance Examination to Professional Courses for NEET and JEE and establishment of DIET in every district among others.

Later, replying to media queries on the treatment of Myanmar refugees, Biren Singh said, "Those who are criticising should come here and see the ground realities.

There are no differences.

Refugees are being treated under the guidelines of the United Nations and the supervision of the government of India and the government of Manipur.

Equal treatment is being given" .

In his address, minister Th Biswajit stated that Nupi Lal is observed every year to remember the courage and sacrifice of women freedom fighters and to pay tribute to their contributions, while adding that the observance should be a proud moment for every Manipuri.

Recalling the two instances of Nupi Lal in 1904 and 1939 and the courage and bravery of Manipuri women in fighting against injustice of the British imperialist, he stressed the need for everyone in the state to inherit their courage and love for the motherland.

He continued that Nupi Lal had brought political, social and economic reformation in the state and we should always remember that.

Acknowledging the contribution of women in different fields, he expressed that gender equality is necessary for bringing development in the state, while stressing the need for women in the decision-making process for inclusive growth.

He further expressed the need to stand together and fight against all vested interests, setting aside all differences, while seeking support and cooperation of the public in bringing peace and development in the state.

In her speech, Oinam MLA Irengbam Nalini said that Manipuri women are one of a kind and urged the women folk to do whatever that is needed to save the state.

The women do not shy away from standing in front to shield their children and spouses from harm, she stated, while hailing the role of women in promoting peace and tranquillity in the state.

The Nupi Lal Drama presented by the Nupi Lal Memorial Association Drama Party and presentation of songs by artistes of Shri Shri Bal Mukunda Dev Government Music College, Imphal were other highlights of the observation held at GP Women's College.

The programme was also attended by ministers, MLAs, chief secretary, security advisor, DGP, senior government and police officials, students of GP Women's College and women from across the state among others.

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