Thoubal DC hosts student delegation from Chandigarh, Puducherry
Source: The Sangai Express / DIO

Thoubal, August 17 2026: The Thoubal District Administration, led by Deputy Commissioner Yumnam Robita hosted an interactive session today for a visiting delegation of 40 students and four faculty members from institutional colleges of Chandigarh and Puducherry at the Counting Hall of the Deputy Commissioner's Office Complex.

The delegation is visiting the district as part of the "Ashtalakshmi Darshan Youth Exchange Programme", a Government of India initiative organised by the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER) and the North Eastern Council (NEC), aimed at promoting educational and cultural exchange.

The session sought to foster national integration, facilitate the exchange of administrative practices and provide the visiting students with firsthand exposure to the cultural, socio-economic and geographical characteristics of Thoubal district.

During the interaction, DC Yumnam Robita gave an overview of the district's administrative machinery, developmental projects and governance initiatives.

Speaking about the traditional Kauna craft, the DC highlighted the prominent role played by women in the region's economy and governance.

She encouraged the visiting students to explore how modem technology, supply-chain logistics and engineering could help improve traditional, household-based handicraft industries while preserving their cultural identity.

ADM Aribam Amarjit Sharma emphasised the role of youth in nation-building and encouraged the students to embrace the diverse cultures of different parts of the country as a means of strengthening national unity.

Asst Commissioner T Sangeeta urged the students to appreciate the historical significance of the Khongjom War Memorial Complex, describing it as a lasting reminder of valour.

She also highlighted commonalities and shared culinary traditions across different regions.

The students actively participated in the interactive session and raised questions on local governance, cultural heritage and other aspects of life in the district.

The visiting faculty members expressed gratitude to the Thoubal District Administration for the warm hospitality and the opportunity to gain insights into the district.

The programme concluded with a group photograph involving the Deputy Commissioner, Additional Deputy Commissioner, Assistant Commissioner and members of the visiting delegation.

Dr Lenin Shagolsem of NIT Manipur, Convener, and Dr Ashish Ranjan of NIT Manipur, Co-convenor, led the faculty members and students during the exchange programme.

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