CM underlines efforts to improve Govt schools
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, July 31 2026: Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh attended the award distribution ceremony for the "Incentive to Government School Students Who Excel in the Higher Secondary Examination" at the Palace Auditorium, Manipur State Film Development Society, here, today.

The programme was also conducted simultaneously in five districts viz Ukhrul, Churachandpur, Kangpokpi, Jiribam and Tengnoupal through virtual mode, said a press statement issued by the CM's Secretariat.

Among the schools, TG Higher Secondary School secured the highest number of awards with 17 awardees, including 11 State position holders, followed by CC Higher Secondary School with eight awards and Kakching Higher Secondary School with five awards.

CM underlines efforts to improve Govt schools

Overall, 24 awards went to schools from the hill districts and 41 awards to schools from the valley districts.

This year's awards recognised 65 students, comprising 14 State awardees and 51 district awardees.

Under the scheme, the first, second and third State position holders received financial assistance of Rs 5 lakh, Rs 4 lakh and Rs 3 lakh, respectively, while students securing fourth position onwards received Rs 1 lakh each, added the CM's Secretariat.

District-level first and second position holders, on the other hand, received Rs 50,000 and Rs 25,000, respectively, it added.

Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister congratulated all the awardees for their outstanding achievements.

He also lauded the dedication of teachers and parents in their endeavour in nurturing the students.

The Chief Minister said the award scheme, launched in 2018, has been fostering healthy competition among students of Government schools.

Highlighting the Government's efforts to strengthen Government schools, the Chief Minister recalled the launch of the School Fagathansi Mission in 2019 .

Under the mission, he said Government schools with very low enrolment were merged with nearby Government schools as part of the "One School Development per Constituency" initiative.

Citing the example of Chingamakha High School in Singjamei Assembly Constituency, he said that when he was first elected, the school had only 14 students.

Today, its enrollment has crossed 250, he added.

He further noted that around 15 students from the school appeared for the HSLC Examination this year, of whom eight secured first division.

The Chief Minister said that despite the unprecedented challenges faced by the State, students and teachers have remained steadfast in their commitment to education and have continued striving for excellence instead of allowing the prevailing situation to impede their progress.

Highlighting the significant role of women in Manipuri society, the Chief Minister said that Manipuri women have long been recognised for their courage, resilience and valuable contributions to society.

CM underlines efforts to improve Govt schools :: Pix - DIPR

Referring to Olympic medallist Saikhom Mirabai Chanu and her recent achievement in winning the gold medal at the ongoing Commonwealth Games, he said that her remarkable feat continues to inspire younger generations.

He further expressed pride that TG Higher Secondary School produced 11 State position holders among its 17 awardees, describing the achievement as a shining example of the talent, determination and leadership of Manipuri girls, as well as a testament to the growing strength of women empowerment in the State.

Stressing that education remains the backbone of human society, the Chief Minister assured that the Government is always open to listening to the concerns and grievances of students, teachers and all stakeholders through meaningful dialogue.

He appealed to all sections of society to refrain from resorting to bandhs, blockades and other forms of disruption, stating that such activities adversely affect students and create hardships for society as a whole.

Commissioner (Education/S), Ningthoujam Geoffrey, while congratulating the awardees, described the occasion as a proud moment for the State's education sector.

He observed that despite facing nearly 48 per cent vacancy in teaching posts, inadequate infrastructure and limited laboratory facilities in many Government schools, students have continued to perform exceptionally well in the Higher Secondary Examination.

Encouraging the students to remain confident, he advised them never to hesitate to ask questions.

He also urged them to actively participate in extracurricular activities such as sports, music, dance and arts alongside academics.

The programme was also attended by Chairman of Council of Higher Secondary Education, Manipur T Ojit Singh, senior officials of the Education Department and Principals, teachers and students of different schools.