Imphal marks 80th Independence Day with patriotic fervour
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, August 16 2026:
The 80th Independence Day was celebrated across Imphal on Saturday with patriotic fervour as Government offices, educational institutions, Courts, security forces and welfare bodies reaffirmed their commitment to Viksit Bharat and national unity.
District Administration IE
In Imphal East district, the Deputy Commissioner led the celebrations and called upon citizens to renew their pledge for a peaceful, prosperous and self-reliant India.
Paying tribute to freedom fighters and acknowledging the contributions of the Armed Forces, farmers, teachers and scientists, the DC stressed the need to transform political freedom into economic strength, technological capability and social harmony.
Highlighting the vision of Atmanirbharta, the district administration outlined key initiatives.
Over 2,700 women farmers received support under MSRLM, more than 2,400 Self-Help Groups were engaged in livelihood activities, and Chanam Sandrok was adopted as the district's first Agriculture Model Village.
Natural farming clusters and crop clusters for pineapple and black rice were also developed to boost farmers' income.
Health and social welfare drives included Nasha Mukt Bharat awareness programmes in schools and colleges, health camps for children in care institutions, and Jan Kalyan Shivirs in Heingang, Sawombung and Keirao for on-the-spot delivery of Government services.
Under central schemes, foodgrains were distributed to 3.46 lakh beneficiaries under PMGKAY, 21,735 free LPG connections were given under Ujjwala, and 744 households received rooftop solar under PM Surya Ghar.
The fisheries and horticulture sectors also saw expansion through PM Matsya Sampada and PMKSY with new farm ponds and drip systems.
The number of active relief camps in the district was reduced from 15 to 8, and 37 PMAY houses were completed at Dolaithabi for resettlement of internally displaced families, with more houses underway.
Forest Department
At the Forest Headquarters, PCCF & HoFF Anurag Bajpai unfurled the National Flag in the presence of senior officers and frontline staff.
He reflected on the sacrifices of freedom fighters and urged the department to strengthen forest and wildlife conservation with dedication and community participation, noting that protecting Manipur's green cover is vital for ecological security.
Educational & Research Institutions
At Manipur University, Canchipur campus, Vice Chancellor (In-Charge) Prof RK Hemakumar Singh hoisted the tricolour and emphasized the role of universities in nation-building through education and research.
At National Institute of Technology Manipur, Langol campus, Director Prof DVLN Somayajulu hoisted the flag and addressed students, faculty, NCC cadets and guests.
A special feature was the participation of 40 students and 4 faculty from Chandigarh and Puducherry under the Ashtalakshmi Darshan Youth Exchange Programme, followed by cultural performances.
At Regional Institute of Medical Sciences, Director Prof G Sunil Kumar Sharma led the flag hoisting and a Tiranga Yatra, calling for "One RIMS, One Team, One Mission" and stressing that a developed India begins with a healthy Bharat.
Awards were presented to recognize outstanding service, and sweets were distributed to patients and attendants.
Central Agricultural University, Imphal and its 13 constituent colleges and 6 KVKs also celebrated the 80th Independence Day ar its headquaters in Lamphelpat.
Vice-Chancellor Dr Anupam Mishra unfurled the National Flag in the presence of Directors, Deans, senior officials, faculty and staff.
A campus march was held and a new Parking Facility and "Ngaipham Shang" were inaugurated.
At ICAR Research Complex, Manipur Centre, HORC Dr Soibam Basanta Singh highlighted the institute's work in climate-resilient agriculture, natural farming and farmer-centric technologies for the North Eastern region, urging youth to embrace innovation.
Judiciary and Legal Services
The District & Sessions Courts of Imphal East and Imphal West jointly celebrated at Cheirap Court Complex, Uripok.
District & Sessions Judge Imphal West Yumkham Rother hoisted the flag in the presence of District & Sessions Judge Imphal East Kh Ajit Singh.
Judicial officers, advocates and staff attended, with CRPF and Manipur Rifles presenting a Guard of Honour.
The Manipur State Legal Services Authority also observed the day at Lamphel Court Complex.
Justice A Bimol Singh unfurled the flag with Justice Aribam Guneshwar Sharma present, and officials pledged to ensure access to justice for marginalized communities.
Security Forces
At Mantripukhri, 69 Battalion CRPF Commandant S A Rojan Zimik led the ceremony and highlighted campaigns such as Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat, Har Ghar Tiranga and plantation drives.
Troops donated blood at RIMS in collaboration with Lions Club and distributed sweets to school children and inmates of 'Poirei Nawakon' and Achanbigei children's home.
At Lamphelpat, 143 Battalion CRPF Commandant Ravinder Sharma led a Tiranga Cycle Rally to Kangla, followed by flag hoisting, blood donation and an inter-company badminton tournament.
Across Imphal, the day reflected service and unity.
From schools to Courts, farms to hospitals, people came together to honor the past and build the future.
With youth leading, the celebrations affirmed that a stronger, greener Manipur means a stronger India.
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