Mao-Imphal Market Day marks decade of indigenous trade, unity
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, July 03 2025: The 10th Mao-Imphal Market Day was celebrated at Kabo Leikai, Nongchup in Imphal West on Thursday, commemorating 10 years of indigenous trade, community empowerment, unity, and economic cooperation among the indigenous communities.

Organised by Mao-Imphal Market Coordination Committee, the event spotlighted the journey of Mao Market, which began in 2015 amid uncertainty and scepticism but has since evolved into a trusted platform for economic collaboration between the Mao community and Imphal residents.

Information and Technology secretary Th Kirankumar, Social Welfare joint secretary Gangmei Ganguilu, HVS Construction Pvt Ltd managing director Huidrom Vikram, Mao-Imphal Market Coordination Committee vice-chairman Ksh Chingkhei Luwangcha, chairman Besii Pfoze, Imphal West AC to DC Scindia Laipubam, and Mao Union Imphal president Dr Puni Losii attended the event, among others.

The anniversary event commenced with a two-minute silence in remembrance of the victims of the ongoing Manipur crisis.

Coordination Committee convener Khuraijam Athou-ba delivered the keynote speech, urging collective support to make Mao Keithel a model of self-reliance and economic revival.

He called on Mao farmers to enhance their production, assuring full support from residents in the valley.

Athouba recounted how representatives of different CSOs came together at the Mao Union Imphal office in 2015 to conceptualise the market, which was first opened in Nagamapal area on July 3 that year.

Recalling the initial scepticism among Mao farmers about how their products would be received, he noted that the market has now grown into a symbol of unity and cooperation despite challenges.

While the situation has improved, he nevertheless conceded that problems remain, especially regarding the lack of adequate and proper storehouses, and called for greater public support.

He expressed gratitude to IT secretary Th Kirankumar for his role in constructing the market sheds, which he said provided shelter and stability for sellers.

Vice-chairman Ksh Chingkhei Luwangcha highlighted the committee's sustained efforts, including collaborations with the Mao Union Imphal to address community concerns, particularly those stemming from conflict between Southern Angami groups and Mao villagers near the Manipur-Nagaland border.

He also reflected on the opening of Kakching Tribal Market, an initiative inspired by Mao Market, and said that it aims to regulate profit margins and ensure fair pricing and reasonable travel costs for both sellers and buyers.

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