State joins Nation in honouring tribal freedom fighters
Source: The Sangai Express / DIPR
Imphal, November 15 2021:
The State joined the Nation in observing the first Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas to comme-morate the contribution and sacrifice of tribal commu-nities in India's freedom struggle today as a part of Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav.
The celebration organised by Tribal Research Institute (TRI) at its conference hall in Chingmeirong was attended by Tribal Affairs and Hills Minister Vungzagin Valte.
The Minister also inaugurated a painting cum photo exhibition as a part of the observation.
Speaking at the programme, Vungzagin Valte said the previous Government which were there before the present Government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi had down-played the role of tribal freedom fighters in India's struggle for freedom.
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However, with the coming of BJP led Government at the centre, a decision was taken to observe November 15 as Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas to honour the sacrifice of the tribal freedom fighters across the country, he added.
As a part of the event, the Minister honoured INA veteran Ngamkholun Kuki (95) of Ukhrul with a shawl and a traditional spear who had joined the Indian National Army and fought against the British Empire.
Ngamkholun Kuki had joined the INA on October 25, 1943 at Jalen Camp in upper Burma under the command of Japanese Captain Nagamise.
He underwent training for four months and joined the fight against the British at Angoching, Kangkhui and Shangshak.
He was later arrested by the British and sent to Manipur Central Jail for 6 months and 7 days.
The programme was also attended by Letkhogin Haokip, Additional Chief Secretary TA & Hills; M Joy Singh, Commissioner, Art and Culture and C Arthur Worchuiyo, Director, Tribal Affairs and Hills as presidium members.
TRI would also organised a 3-day State level workshop on skill upgradation/capacity building on tribal art and painting at TRI complex from November 16-18; a 3-day workshop on skill upgradation/capacity building on pottery and clay modelling from November 19-22 in collaboration with Imphal Art College as a part of Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav.