Quality leader needed: Rameshwar
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, October 26 2025: The Umanglai Kanba Apunba Lup (UKAL) convened its Mera Meepham (annual conference on Umang Lai Haraoba) at Iboyaima Shumang Leela Shanglen at Palace Compound today.

The programme was attended by Keirao AC MLA Lourembam Rameshwar, priests, priestesses and representatives of different Lai Committees among others.

Addressing the conference as chief guest, Rameshwar stated that Manipur is lagging behind in development and other areas due to lack of competent leaders.

Emphasising that the remarkable progress of many Nations today is a testament to their leaders' unwavering commitment, the MLA added that Manipur too will progress when honest and competent leaders guide the State.

He also attributed Manipur's economic decline to the absence of visionary public leaders.

Rameshwar, meanwhile, explained that the annual Mera Meepham aims to elevate Manipur's cultural and developmental stature by thoughtfully analysing the ancient traditions of Umang Lai Haraoba.

Noting that Umang Lai, forest deities, hold deep significance for the Meetei community, he expressed concern that the development of sacred sites dedicated to Umang Lai, however, remains neglected.

While Christian and Muslim communities generously contribute to the development of Churches and Mosques, the financial support for sacred sites tied to the Meitei ancestral faith remains low, he said and appealed to the Meitei community to support in developing Umang Lai sites.

He emphasized that the traditional practice of worshipping forest deities fosters environmental protection and cultivates a sense of unity among the people.

UKAL president Chanam Nabachandra Meitei, retired Principal of DM College of Arts Ng Kangjiya Mangang, Nongthonba of Sana Konung Y Meiraba, Khullakpa of Sana Konung Chongtham Rajen and retired Principal of Government Dance College Ranjit Adhikarimayum attended.

Rajya Sabha MP Leishemba Sanajaoba attended the evening session of the conference.

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