State joins Nation in observing Gandhi Jayanti
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, October 02 2013: As in other parts of the country and world, the State also observed the 144th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi as National Cleanliness Day and International Day of Non-Violence today.

In a function organised by State Home Department at Gandhi Memorial Hall, Chief Minister Okram Ibobi called on all to regenerate non-violence, peace, development and cleanliness in Manipur.

While reminding Mahatma Gandhi's famous quote, 'Cleanliness is next to Godliness', the Chief Minister also opined that every issue could be resolved through non-violent means.

Acknowledging Gandhi's philosophy, the United Nations declared his birth day as the International Day of Non-Violence, O Ibobi added.

Speaking at the occasion, Deputy Chief Minister Gaikhangam said, it is fortunate to have the opportunity to follow the footprints of Mahatma Gandhi.

The CM and Dy CM during the function

He observed that every standoff must be resolved through peaceful means as wished by the Father of the Nation.

Ministers, MLAs and high ranking Government officials also attended the function.

Earlier, the gathering paid floral tributes at the statue of Mahatma Gandhi.

Manipur Pradesh Congress Committee also observed National Cleanliness day at Congress Bhavan.

Chief Minister O Ibobi and Deputy Chief Minister Gaikhangam led the party workers in paying floral tributes at the statue of Mahatma Gandhi.

After taking a pledge to follow the ideals of Mahatma Gandhi, Congress workers led by O Ibobi and Gaikhangam conducted a cleanliness drive at Khwairamband Keithel.

Meanwhile, Manipur Peace Committee, Sarvodaya Mitra Mandal, Senior Citizens for Society, Co-ordination Committee for Peace and Normalcy in Manipur, United Religions Initiative Manipur CC, National Youth Organisation (Rashtriya Yuva Shangathan) Manipur, National Youth Project Manipur, Gandhian Institute for Rural Development Thoubal, United Voluntary Youth Council, Mahila Kalyan Samiti Manipur, Kasturba Gandhi Seva Ashram Imphal, Centre for Gandhian Studies, Manipur University and Gandhi Peace Foundation also jointly observed International Day of Non-Violence at Manipur Press Club.

Padmashree RK Jhalajit and Senior Citizens for Society President N Binoy were the members of the dais.

National Cleanliness Day was also observed by organising a social service camp by the officers and employees of the State Government under the theme, 'Clean Ukhrul' at Mini Secretariat Complex, Ukhrul.

Employees of Directorate of Information and Public Relations also observed the day at its office complex at Moirangkhom.

A social service camp was organised in this connection.

Khangabok Kendra Block Congress Committee, Block Mahila Congress Committee and Block Youth Congress Committee also jointly observed the 144th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi at the community hall of Wangbal.

Apart from giving reception to S Thoibi, who has been recently appointed as the General Secretary of Manipur Pradesh Mahila Congress Committee, old-age pension cards were also distributed at the function.