15th Rongmei Day observed with fervour at Longmai
Source: The Sangai Express

Noney, January 09 2026: The 15th Rongmei Day, 2026 was observed with solemnity and cultural pride on Friday at the Multiple-Purpose Hall, Longmai, Noney.

The programme was organised by the Rongmei Naga Council Manipur (RNCM) and hosted by Longmai PEI and the Village Authority.

The observance began with the hoisting of the Rongmei flag by RNCM president KC Savio, followed by an opening prayer led by Shakti Gonmei, Pastor of TBC Longmai.

Jacob Malangmei, chairman of RNCM Longmai Luangrian, delivered the welcome address, while the introduction of dignitaries and leaders of Rongmei civil society organisations was done by Gailachung Kamei, general secretary of RNCM.

On the occasion, Thuankubui Pamei, former chairman of the Rongmei Naga Council Committee (RNCC) and a founding member of RNCM, briefed the gathering on the history of RNCM and the prolonged struggle for recognition of the Rongmei tribe, which was officially recognised and declared by the Government of India on January 9, 2012 .

Former RNCM president Kenan Kamei extended greetings to the present office bearers and suggested that future Rongmei Day celebrations be organised on a larger and more inclusive scale.

Addressing the gathering, RNCM president KC Savio conveyed warm welcome and New Year greetings to all.

He expressed gratitude to former leaders and pioneers of the Rongmei Tribe for then-guidance and tireless efforts towards the upliftment of the community.

He also thanked religious leaders and the general public for their continued moral and prayer support to Rongmei civil society organisations.

Savio further announced that the historic 16th Rongmei Day, 2027, will be celebrated on a grand scale with full cultural programmes at a suitable Rongmei-inhabited district in Manipur.

He also declared that all schools in Rongmei-inhabited areas would observe a holiday on that day.

Other speakers on the occasion included Gaingam Gangmei, former vice-president of Naga Hoho and advisor, RNCM; Poujan Gonmei, vice-president United Naga Council (UNC); and Keineshong Gonmei, Khunbu of Longmai Village.

The event was attended by representatives of various Rongmei tribal organisations, former and present leaders, including Rongmei Luphuam, as well as youth and student wings from different parts of the State.

Comment