Youth-led initiatives brighten lives of displaced people
Source: Chronicle News Service / Mission Oinam

Imphal, October 17 2023: The state continues to grapple with an ongoing humanitarian crisis stemming from the violent ethnic clash that erupted in Churachandpur district on May 3, leaving a trail of devastation.

Over the past five months, approximately 200 lives have been lost, dozens still missing, and tens of thousands forced to abandon their homes, seeking refuge in various relief camps.

The affected families are facing not only the loss of their homes and belongings but also the looming threat of a severe economic downturn.

Amidst this crisis, a glimmer of hope emerges from the resilience and collective efforts of individuals and organisations from diverse backgrounds.

The community has come together, showcasing tremendous solidarity and extending helping hand to those displaced, infusing a new life into their shattered existence.

Youth-led initiatives have stood out in particular, going above and beyond to leverage their skills and resources for the betterment of the affected population.

For instance, Khurai Soibam Leikai Wangkhei Khunou Youth' Team organised a sales event at the local community hall on Saturday, demonstrating theirunwavering commitment to aid the displaced people.

Various items, ranging from fast foods to crafted goods and custom printed T-shirts, were sold at the event, with the proceeds dedicated to supporting the displaced families.

This proactive approach emphasises the importance of sustaining assistance to the displaced people and highlights the community's determination to overcome the ongoing crisis.

Individuals like Monika Rajkumari, a member of the youth team, shared their dedication to providing aid not only to the displaced people but also to village volunteers at the front lines, highlighting the crucial role of collective support in these trying times.

However, challenges loom large, and sustaining such efforts indefinitely require careful consideration, especially given the strain on the state's economy.

It s essential to strike a balance between aiding the displaced people and revitalising the economy to ensure continued support from the community.

A visitor named Laitonjam Chinaman alias Ibelei acknowledged the widespread suffering caused by the crisis, affecting everyone to different extents.

She pointed out that while the people have been extending aid to displaced families since the outbreak of violence, the sustainability of this support remains uncertain due to the predominantly impoverished state of the families.

Moreover, the crisis has significantly impacted the state's economy.

In such circumstances, there is a pressing need for concerted efforts to revive the economy, particularly in Imphal city and other economic hubs across districts, ensuring that people can persist in their contributions to those in need, she said.

In light of these challenges, creative solutions are imperative to bolster the economy while still extending a helping hand to the displaced people until they can find stable footing.

Initiatives like the sales event organised by the Khurai Soibam Leikai Wangkhei Khunou youths deserve commendation and widespread support.

Additionally, efforts like Hope Fest by Imphal Buzz, providing income-generating opportunities and essential guidance to the displaced people, serve as beacons of hope and deserve community support.

The resilience and collaborative spirit exhibited by the community in times of adversity stand as a testimony to human compassion and solidarity.

By fostering sustainable initiatives and uniting in the endeavours, the society can pave way towards a brighter future for all those affected by this crisis.

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