Amit Shah pays tribute to freedom fighter Nilamani
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, July 15 2025: Union Home Minister and Minister of Co-operation Amit Shah on Monday paid tribute to Manipuri freedom fighter Hemam Nilamani Singh during the 63rd Foundation Day celebration of Bharat Vikas Parishad (BVP) in New Delhi.

As a part of the tribute event, the home minister also dedicated a letter and plaque to the freedom fighter, which was received by Nilamani's daughter Dr H Priyosakhi Devi, who had held the position of director in-charge of RIMS, Imphal.

Addressing the event as chief guest, Amit Shah said that Hemam Nilamani Singh was posthumously honoured for his contribution to India's freedom movement and for dedicating his life to service, education and linguistic unity.

Amit Shah pays tribute to freedom fighter Nilamani

He recounted that Nilamani joined the Indian National Army (INA) led by Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose in 1944 after being inspired by his call, and devoted all his resources to the cause of independence.

Shah noted that Nilamani was not arrested until 1945, and after his release from jail in 1946, he returned to Moirang and worked to promote education, social service and cooperation in Manipur.

"He made these three the foundation of his life," Shah said.

The Home minister recalled his first visit to Manipur and shared a personal memory of interacting with Manipuri youths who spoke fluent Hindi.

"When asked how they had learned the language so well, the youth attributed it to the efforts of Nilamani" .

"Hemam Nilamani Singh worked his entire life for linguistic unity," Shah said, adding that such efforts contributed significantly to national integration.

The event was also attended by former Supreme Court judge and Bharat Vikas Parishad national president retired justice Adarsh Kumar Goel, along with several other dignitaries.

Shah praised the Bharat Vikas Parishad for working in line with the ideals of Swami Vivekananda, stating that it has embodied the principles of dedication, organisation and values.

He also described the Parishad as not just an organisation but an idea that connects every Indian with the essence of India.

Established six decades ago, Bharat Vikas Parishad has over 1,600 branches across 412 districts, with more than 84,000 families associated with its work.

Lauding the organisation for fostering a culture that links service with nation-building, Shah said its volunteers have consistently responded to disasters, organised blood donation camps and conducted values-based initiatives in schools and villages.

"The world today needs organisations like Bharat Vikas Parishad, which have quietly worked for decades without seeking fame", Shah said and called upon all to draw inspiration from the life of Hemam Nilamani.