Foundation to award mothers of five
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, August 01 2025: In an effort to honour women, who marry at an appropriate age, and encourage higher fertility within the community, Humanism Foundation has announced launch of "Khunriai Kanbi Ema" award.

The award will be conferred to mothers who have five children, starting from August 2025 .

In a press release, Foundation's managing Trustee Dr Wahengbam Rorrkychand Singh referred to the 2024 Revision of World Population Prospects report by the United Nations, stating that a Total Fertility Rate (TFR) of 2.11 is necessary for a community's sustainable growth; otherwise, it risks extinction within 30 to 50 years.

Citing countries like Japan and South Korea, where TFRs have dropped below 1, the release noted demographic challenges these nations face, including school closures and depopulated villages.

The Foundation revealed that the Meetei community's TFR stands at 1.77, as per the 5th National Family Health Survey (2019-2021), raising alarm over a potential demographic decline similar to Japan and South Korea.

The foundation also attributed the declining TFR in Manipur to issues such as widespread drug abuse and lack of sustainable livelihoods, which discourage bigger families.

To counter this trend and promote positive demographic change, the foundation will begin honouring mothers who have 5 children or more with the "Khunnai Kanbi Ema" award from the month of August.

The organisation has appealed for public support in making the initiative a success.

For further details, interested individuals can visit the Human Foundation's office at Utlou or contact 8794719282, the release added.

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