Foreign models join crusade
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, April 26 2013 : A day ahead of their gala event in Imphal , ten foreign models on Friday joined the people's campaign against the spread of HIV/Aids and crime against women at various public places.

Manipur is one of the six HIV prevalence States of the county and according to the Atate-run Manipur Aids Control Society (Macs) the state has over 40,000 people living with HIV.

Along with the wide spread infection, crime against women is also on the rise in Manipur prompting several civil society organizations to fight the menace.

Women Action for Development ( Wad) secretary Sobita Mangsatabam said over 300 cases of violence against women including rape, rape and murder, molestation, trafficking, brutal physical assault, abduction, intimidation, abandonment and immolation took place in the State last year.

The models � five from Russia, three from Ukraine and one each from Moldova and Brazil- distributed leaflets and pamphlets high- lighting awareness tips on combating the spread of HIV/Aids and crime against women to the people at various markets including Nambol and Bishnupur .

Foreign models join crusade

They also interacted with students on the issues at some schools in Bishupur district and a prominent college in Imphal.

"We are so happy with joining such campaign on the crucial issues besetting across the world," said Russian model Elizabeth.

On Saturday evening, the ten foreign models along with with six selective Manipuri models will walk the ramp at Bheigyachandra Open Air Theatre (Boat) at the historic palace compound here.

Under the banner ""Elegance of the Indigenous- A Showcase of Manipur Ethnic Attires", the beauties will put on different Manipuri ethnic attires designed by eminent designers of the state.

There will be four rounds in the gala event being organized by Imphal-based 'Blue Wings' and sponsored by Manipur Development Society (MDS) and Manipur Skill Development Society (MSDS) with support from Manipur tourism department.

"I'm thankful to Wad secretary eche (sister) Sobita for guiding and supporting us in making our short but effective campaign against the growing crime against women.

I also equally extend my gratitude to Macs authorities," said Kh Nishikanta Singh, eminent choreographer and event director of the gala programme.