Rich tributes paid to brave mothers of Nupi Lal
Source: Chronicle News Service / DIPR
Imphal, December 12 2022:
The government of Manipur on Monday observed Nupi Lal Day at Nupi Lal Memorial Complex and TG Higher Secondary School, here with Power minister Thongam Biswajit and MAHUD minister Yumnam Khem chand Singh attending the commemorative function as chief guest and president respectively.
Prior to the main function at TG Higher Secondary School, the chief guest led the gathering at Nupi Lal Memorial Complex in paying floral tributes to the brave mothers, who fought against the suppressive policy of colonial British rule.
Speaking at the event, Biswajit recounted that Nupi Lal was a landmark event in the political history of Manipur and pointed out that the day reminds everybody about the courage and sacrifice of Manipuri women and their contributions in different political and social issues of Manipur.
He observed that Meira Paibi movement in Manipur is the outcome of the courageous exhibited by the women who fought bravely against the mighty colonial rule.
Praising the role of Manipuri women in different social issues, he said the present government led by chief minister Biren Singh had taken up several initiatives for the welfare of women.
Construction of women's markets in seven districts has been completed while construction of another 10 markets are underway, the minister informed.
Further stating that Rani Gaidinliu Tribal Freedom Fighters Museum is being constructed in honour of the late freedom fighter, he said that such initiative of the government is a befitting example of respect for womenfolk.
Continuing that the present government is taking keen interest in the uplift of the economic condition of womenfolk, he said that 1815 looms had been distributed under Handloom and Textiles Department so far.
Biswajit also mentioned about the role of Manipuri women in running Anganwadi Centres in the state.
In his address the functional president, Yumnam Khemchand highlighted the many pivotal roles of Manipuri mothers in different stages of history and said the contributions made are still being remembered today.
He also observed that Manipuri womenfolk continue to take centre stage even in contemporary times by protecting and promoting the culture and tradition.
"It is womenfolk who mainly uphold the traditional dresses in the state," he said.
The observance was also attended by cabinet ministers, MLAs, chief secretary, DGP, top civil and police officers among others.
Earlier in the day, MAHUD minister Khemchand flagged off the 31st State Level Nupi Lal Ningshing Lamjel (race) organised by State Level Nupi Lal Ningshing Lamjel Organisation Committee Imphal, from Nupi Lal Memorial Complex, here, on Monday morning.
Speaking on the occasion, Khemchand stressed that the present generation must never forget the movements led by the mothers of Manipur against the anti-people policies of the British colonial ruler.
He then wished for the observance of Nupi Lal Day to usher in peace and tranquillity in the state, in addition to lowering the rate of crimes against women and upholding the rights of women.
The race participated by over 300 women from Manipur and Cachar district of Assam, was held in three categories.
In the first category (35-45 years old), N Sunita, M Sandhyarani and W Shilpa bagged the first, second and third position respectively.
In the second category (46-59 years old), P Indira won first place, S Bideshi second and M Kiran third, while in the third category (above 60 years of age), Ch Thambalshang, Th Ekashini and K Khuthum won first, second and third place respectively.
One 91-year-old Salam Mani of Singjamei Chingamakha Kshetri Leikai, who was the oldest participant in the race, was honoured with an award.
The marathon culminated at Singjamei Chingamakhong.
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