Macha Laima reaffirms pledge on women empowerment
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, April 21 2025: Manipuri Chanura Leishem Marup (Macha Leima) celebrated its 56th foundation day on Monday at Lamyanba Shanglen, Palace Compound, reaffirming its commitment to empowerment of women and protection of indigenous identity.

Senior broadcaster of All India Radio (AIR) Imphal, Chongtham Kamala, attended the function as chief guest, while Macha Leima president Wangkheimayum Amusana presided over the event.

Delivering the keynote address, Macha Leima treasurer Khangembam Chanu Lanchenbi said the organisation was established on April 21, 1969, by a group of like-minded women to carve a space for women in a male-dominated society.

She emphasised the importance of remembering the contributions of these women, stating that while women are revered as mothers, sisters and daughters, they are often still confined by societal norms that limit their potentials.

Macha Leima has been working to bring women out from the four walls of their homes to walk with the world, she said, adding that the organisation has expanded its presence in remote areas as well as in Assam's Cachar, actively working with women at the grassroots level.

Lanchenbi highlighted various initiatives undertaken by the organisation, including promotion of handloom, publication of a quarterly journal focused on women's rights, and efforts to encourage women to participate actively, in society, health, politics, and other sectors.

The Macha Leima School, established on June 1, 1972, aims to nurture young minds as future pillars of society, she added.

Macha Leima also honoured women activists and martyrs who took part in both the historic Nupi Lal movement.

Since 1973, the organisation has observed "Nupigee Numit" (Women's Day) on December 12 - predating International Women's Day by two years.

The organisation launched a micro-finance initiative, "Macha Chamma", on November 1, 1997, to support women's economic empowerment.

It also opened an RTI Cell and began observing Khongjom Day in collaboration with the PWO from 1970, later taking a leading role in the annual observance from 1975 .

The state level observance by the government came afterward, she elaborated.

Lanchenbi called on women to stand united and prioritise the welfare of the state and society.

She urged them to confront the growing challenges posed by illegal immigration, which she described as a threat to the indigenous people of the state.

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