Significant efforts made to restore normalcy: Governor
Source: Chronicle News Service

Thoubal, April 23 2025: Governor Ajay Kumar said that 'significant efforts' have been undertaken over the past few months to restore normalcy and ensure that the state progresses on the path of peace and stability.

"The government has undertaken significant efforts over the past few months to restore normalcy in the state.

Attempts have also been made to ensure that Manipur progresses on the path of peace and stability," Bhalla said in his address on the occasion of Khongjom Day observance.

Governor Bhalla led the people in paying tributes to the gallant Manipuri soldiers at the Khongjom War Memorial Complex, here, on Wednesday.

Significant efforts made to restore normalcy: Governor

The Governor laid the wreaths at the war memorial at Kheba hilltop, where guard of honour, general salute, reverse arms, sounding of last post, two-minute-silence, slope arms and order arms were accorded as a mark of respect to the Manipuri forefathers who laid down their lives defending the sovereignty of Manipur.

He also led the people in paying respect to Paona Brajabashi by laying wreaths at the statue of the freedom fighter at Kheba foothill followed by offering of Tarpon at Khongjom River.

Addressing the gathering, Governor Ajay Bhalla strongly condemned the terror attack at Pahalgam in Kashmir on Tuesday and extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families.

Reflecting on the Khongjom Day observance, he said it is a tribute to those brave sons of Manipur, who had sacrificed their lives in the Anglo-Manipuri War of 1891 for their motherland, adding that despite odds, the brave warriors of Manipur fought relentlessly against the British Empire.

"The battle of Khongjom was not just a battle of arms but a battle of honour, patriotism and self-determination.

The indomitable spirit of the people of Manipur remains a unique history of patriotism in the world," he added.

Regarding the current situation in the state, he highlighted ongoing initiatives aimed at improving the rehabilitation of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) residing in various relief camps.

Under the Ministry of Tourism's 'Hunar Se Rojgar' initiative, steps have been taken to create employment opportunities for the youth, particularly for those affected by the violence, he said.

The 'Hunar Se Rozgar' programme is aimed at persons with not much means and in need to acquire skills facilitative to employment.

Emphasising the importance of strengthening the education sector, the Governor stated: "It is vital for the youth not only to understand our history but also acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to thrive in today's fast-paced world".

He noted that the recent inauguration of Information Technology Centres in Kangpokpi, Churachandpur, and Senapati districts, funded by the Ministry of Home Affairs, marked a significant step in equipping students with the tools needed to succeed in the evolving digital landscape.

The Governor also shared that the state has launched the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan to raise awareness about the harmful effects of substance abuse, as part of the Government of India's broader mission to build a drug-free nation.

"In another major mile stone for rural development, Manipur has received a record allocation under MGNREGA for the financial year 2025-26 - the highest-ever sanctioned amount for the state under this scheme," he reminded.

Governor Ajay urged the youth to contribute towards building a better Manipur and to uphold the ideals of justice, equality, and brotherhood, while calling upon the people to honour the sacrifices made at the Battle of Khongjom by striving to create a brighter, stronger, and united Manipur.

Former CM O Ibobi Singh, MP (Lok Sabha) Angomcha Bimol Akoijam, MLAs Th Biswajit, K Ranjit, Usham Deben, Th Lokeshwor and Kh Ibomcha, chief secretary Prashant Kumar Singh, DGP Rajiv Singh and other senior civil and police officers also attended the observance.