Imphal-Japan Harmony Week begins
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, November 01 2026: Imphal-Japan Harmony Week 2026, a 7-day programme promoting cultural exchange, education and friendship between the people of Manipur and Japan, has been launched at the Imphal Peace Museum, Maibam Lotpa Ching, Nambol, today.

Chief Secretary Rajeev Singh Thakur, YAS and Art and Culture Secretary N Praveen, senior Government officials, artists, students, members of civil societies attended the opening ceremony.

The Imphal-Japan Harmony Week is being organised by the Imphal Peace Museum and the Manipur Tourism Forum under the aegis of the Embassy of Japan in India as part of Japan Month 2026 .

The 7-day event will see a special exhibition on Japan, featuring photographs, information panels and materials connected with the relationship between Manipur and Japan.

The exhibition and Japanese film screenings will continue throughout the week.

On November 2, participants will have an opportunity to experience traditional Japanese attire, including the Kimono and Yukata, through a programme being conducted in association with The Japan Foundation, New Delhi.

A panel discussion on "The Need for Peace Education in Nation Building" will be held on November 3 .

November 4 will see a panel discussion on "Skilling and Working in Japan", providing students, young professionals and job seekers with information on language requirements, professional skills, workplace expectations and pathways for pursuing education, training and employment opportunities in Japan.

A Manipuri-Japanese Calligraphy Workshop will be held on November 5 .

An Anime and Manga Style-Inspired Poster-Making Competition will be organised on November 6 .

Addressing the launch event today, Chief Secretary Rajeev Singh Thakur said that Manipur was the site of some of the fiercest battles of the Second World War, and observed that a relationship once shaped by war has gradually transformed into one of peace, friendship and mutual respect.

He emphasised that closer engagement between Manipur and Japan, could open new possibilities in areas such as education, skill development, tourism, culture, technology, healthcare, museums, heritage conservation and sustainable development.

N Praveen encouraged students and youth to take active part in the programmes and use the occasion to learn about Japanese culture, discipline, creativity and professional opportunities.

The programme will conclude on November 7 .

The programme is being conducted with the support of the Government of Manipur, the Sasakawa Peace Foundation and The Japan Foundation, New Delhi .

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