Manipur Today, January 2020 Issue Chief Editor Heisnam Balkrisna Singh, MCS Director, IPR
Senior Editor L. Ashok Kumar Singh, Deputy Director Content Editor Sagolsem Snehprabha, DIO
Editorial Board Seema Sanjenbam, PRO L. Roshan Singh, PRO N. Bidyananda Singh, Translator Oinam Shyamo, Translator Maringmei Gaijinmeilu, Translator
News INDIAN REPUBLIC Inputs from NEWS Section, DIPR THROUGH 70 YEARS OF 09 CONSTITUTION OF INDIA
Photographs DIPR Photo Section
Contact DIPR Manipur 70 YEARS OF Nityaipat Chuthek, Imphal REPUBLIC INDIA Manipur 12 email: [email protected] www.diprmanipur.in
Printed at 14 NEST Advertising, Babupara
No. of Copies: 2500 WOMEN POWER 21 GENDER EQUALITY 33WHY MANIPUR 26 OBSERVES NUPEE An interview with LAL DAY NEMCHA KIPGEN
29 BETI BACHAO BETI PADHAO MANIPUR MSPDCL: WINNING STATE WOMEN ACCOLADES IN THE 36 COMMISSION POWER SECTOR 49
MANIPUR STATE RURAL 52 LIVELIHOODS MISSION Inclusive Education and its Benefits to Differently- 69 Abled Children
60 73 CHERRY BLOSSOM FESTIVAL BLOSSOM CHERRY GAAN-NGAI 62 88 MAJOR ACHIEVEMENTS FOR THE CALENDAR YEAR 2019 ORANGE FESTIVAL
Dr. NAJMA HEPTULLA Governor of Manipur
MESSAGE am very happy to know that the Department of Information & Public Relations, Government of Manipur is bringing out a special issue of “Manipur Today” on the occasion of the Republic Day 2020. IIt was on this day in 1950, that we gave ourselves a Constitution which is the guiding principle of our country. Despite reservations from various quarters, the experiment of democracy in India has been successful and we are going from strength to strength, respected by other nations. On this occasion we should revere and offer our homage to those founding fathers for their foresight and understanding. This solemn occasion enables us every year to ask ourselves as to what we have achieved, which are the areas where desired success has not come our way and why and about our plans to meet the ever-challenging future. In this process of stock-taking, we not only think about our State but also get an opportunity to search our hearts as to how much we have been able to do for the Nation and to ask ourselves as to whether we have been steadfast and sincere in discharging our duties towards the millions of our expectant countrymen. It is, indeed, a glorious Pan-Indian tradition that we have been able to build up on the psychological as well as the material plans. It is a source of satis- faction, solace and strength when we realize that our desire for individual identity has no conflict with the fact of our being the part of a mighty and glorious whole - that is, a vast motherland rather we derive unique advantages from this phenomenon. Once again, my best wishes to all the citizens of Manipur on the occasion of Republic Day, 2020.
(Dr. Najma Heptulla) SHRI N. BIREN SINGH Chief Minister, Manipur
MESSAGE t gives me immense pleasure to learn that the Directorate of Information and Public Relations, Manipur is bringing out a special issue of ‘Manipur Today’ magazine on the occasion of India’s 71st Republic Day. It is a day to remember when India’s Constitution came into force on January 26, 1950 Icompleting India’s emergence as an independent country from the ashes of the British Empire. On this day, the people of India solemnly adopted our constitution and constituted India into a sovereign, socialist, secular, democratic republic. On this historic occasion, let us remember and pay homage to our visionary leaders in the Constituent Assembly who has gifted us our Constitution. I also extend my gratitude to our great freedom fighters who made untold sacrifices for the cause of India’s independence. On this day, as we salute the National Tri-colour flag, let us resolve to work with firm commitment towards a peaceful, corruption-free Manipur and live up to the values enshrined in the Constitution. I extend my heartfelt greetings to the people of Manipur and wish the publication of Manipur Today a grand success.
(N. Biren Singh) SHRI TH. BISWAJIT SINGH Minister, IPR
MESSAGE am happy to learn that the Directorate of Information and Public Relations, Manipur is bringing out a Special Issue of “Manipur Today” on the occasion of the Republic Day, 2020. I am fully confident that onus of dissemination of information undertaken by the Directorate will be of immense help in enlightening the people of the State about the initiatives the Government Ihas been taking up in different domains and will serve as an encyclopedia of information for the general public. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to all ranks of the Directorate and wish the endeavour all success.
(Th. Biswajit Singh) T his year’s Maipur
e d i t o r i a l
(H. Balkrisna Singh) Director, IPR Manipur Today, January, 2020
INDIAN REPUBLIC THROUGH 70 YEARS OF CONSTITUTION OF INDIA A Significant Journey of Socio-Political and Economic Development
Dr. Aheibam Koireng Singh Asst. Professor, Centre for Manipur Studies Manipur University
“I feel that the Constitution is workable, it is flexible and it is strong enough to hold the country together both in peace and wartime. Indeed, if I may say so, if things go wrong under the new constitution, the reason will not be that we had a bad constitution. What we will have to say is that man was vile.” - Dr. BR Ambedkar ndia gained its hard-earned 1950 when the Constitution of the nationalist and democratic independence on 15th India came into force. The day aspirations of an independent August 1947. Even that, is celebrated with nationalistic polity following decolonization. at that time, the country fervour and festivities as the With the constitution coming into did not have its own Republic Day in India far and force, the transition process of Constitution and it entirely relied wide at its national capital, and India becoming an independent Ion the colonial Government all the states and union territories republic was completed. The of India Act, 1935 before the uninterruptedly without any Constitution of India sought adoption of Constitution of break since then. The making of to have a welfare state and an India on 26th November 1949. free India’s constitution by the egalitarian society with a liberal Regardless of India gaining Constituent Assembly is reflective democratic polity following the independence, it relishes the real of the efforts that the founding pushing out of colonialism. taste of democracy on 26th January fathers undertook to translate
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The Constitution of India is the executive, legislative and judicial amendments further deepen and supreme law of the country. It branches of government and are widen the significant changes in frames fundamental political bound by it. With the aid of its the journey of socio-political and principles, procedures, practices, constitution, India is governed economic development. rights, powers, and duties of by a parliamentary system of The Sixty-first Amendment of the the government. It imparts government with the executive Constitution of India, officially constitutional supremacy and not directly accountable to the known as The Constitution parliamentary supremacy, as it legislature. The President of India (Sixty-first Amendment) Act, is not created by the parliament is head of the executive branch with 1988, lowered the voting age of but by a constituent assembly, the duty of preserving, protecting elections to the Lok Sabha and and adopted by its people, with and defending the constitution to the Legislative Assemblies of a declaration in its preamble. and the law. The Prime Minister as States from 21 years to 18 years. The parliament cannot override head of the Council of Ministers, This amendment had made it. The constitution declares aids and advises the President the Indian democracy more India a “sovereign democratic in the performance of their broad-based and participatory republic” and to secure all its constitutional duties. The council by involving its youths as one citizens “justice, liberty, equality, is answerable to the lower house. of the key stakeholders making and fraternity”. The 42nd Hans Raj Khanna (2008) in them more engaged and Constitutional Amendment in his book, Making of India’s informed citizens. 73rd and 74th 1976 incorporated ‘Socialist’ constitution writes, “If the Indian Amendment, 1992 introduces and ‘Secular’ in the Constitution constitution is our heritage local self-government in rural and of India. ‘Socialist’ here would bequeathed to us by our founding urban India thereby deepening mean that wealth should be fathers, no less are we, the democracy at the grassroots shared equally by society through people of India, the trustees, and level. Right to Information Act, distributive justice, and ‘Secular’ custodians of the values which 2005 provides for setting out meaning that all religions get pulsate within its provisions! A the practical regime of Right to equal respect, protection and constitution is not a parchment of Information for citizens to secure support from the state. The paper, it is a way of life and has to information under control of Constitution of India provides be lived up to. Eternal vigilance is public authorities, to promote its citizens with six fundamental the price of liberty and in the final transparency and accountability rights. These rights are the Right analysis, its only keepers are the in the working of every public to Freedom, Right to Equality, people.” In fact, the constitution authority. Cultural and Educational Rights, needs to be adhered, not only Right to Constitutional Remedies, The present Prime Minister of in letters but by the spirit also Right against Exploitation and India, Narendra Modi assumed for greater socio-political and Right to Freedom of Religion. office on 26 May 2014 and is economic development towards Recently, the Right to Privacy continuing for the consecutive realising the goal of achieving has also been added to the list of term. In 2015, he announced that a welfare state and egalitarian fundamental rights. 26 November will be observed society. every year as ‘Constitution Day’, Democracy is a guarantee of From its inception, the also known as ‘Samvidhan Divas’. universal adult suffrage in India. Constitution has undergone so Since then, it has been observing This has unleashed a process many amendments since then without fail to reiterate and that has gone beyond mere but its core basic objectives reorient the citizens towards the voting by empowering people in - to preserve the concepts of ideals and principles enshrined a manner that radically changed parliamentary democracy, civil in the Indian Constitution and the contours of Indian politics. liberties, social and economic encouraging all Indians to play By giving room for dissent, justice remain to this day. By their rightful role in strengthening Indian democracy had created December 2019, 125 amendment the Indian Democracy. Narendra a tangible space for democratic bills had been presented in Modi in the Constitution Day of aspirations to flourish. The Parliament. Out of those, 104 have the last year 2019 observed that constitution grants power to the become Amendment Acts. These Constitution for him is ‘Dignity
10 Manipur Today, January, 2020 for Indian and Unity for India’, efficient and transparent manner The Muslim Women (Protection and that it highlights both rights of amounts released in lieu of of Rights on Marriage) Act, and duties of citizens, which is a forest land diverted for non-forest 2019 ensured social justice to a special aspect of Constitution of purpose which would mitigate large section of women citizens India. He also urged the Indian impact of diversion of such forest by criminalizing ‘triple talaq’ as citizen to think about how to land. The Rights of Persons with unconstitutional. Triple talaq fulfil the duties enshrined in the Disabilities Act, 2016 comes into allows Muslim husband to Constitution. ‘As proud citizens force addressing the needs of instantly divorce their spouse. of India, let us think about how persons with mental illness and Abrogation of Article 370 which our actions will make our nation their families. The Ministry of gave special status to Jammu and even stronger’, he further said. Health and Family Welfare has Kashmir and reorganizing the Prime Minister Narendra Modi issued a notification for bringing state of Jammu and Kashmir to led National Democratic Alliance the Human Immunodeficiency two separate union territories (NDA) government had taken Virus and Acquired Immune is also a bold move and big up many constitutional measures Deficiency Syndrome (Prevention achievement of the government. to ensure Socio-Political and and Control) Act, 2017 in force These are some of the Economic Development. from 10th September 2018. constitutional measures among The Act safeguards the rights Black Money (Undisclosed the many taken up by the present of people living with HIV and Foreign Income and Assets) and government at the centre to fulfill affected by HIV. The Mental Imposition of Tax Act, 2015 was the needs of socio-political and Healthcare Act, 2017 provides for passed to curb black money, economic development needs mental healthcare and services or undisclosed foreign assets towards realizing the vision of for persons with mental illness; and income and imposes tax India as a welfare state. Making all and to protect, promote and fulfill and penalty on such income. these acts effective and useful will the rights of such persons during Commercial Courts Act, 2015, certainly require an efficient and delivery of mental healthcare was enacted by the NDA highest standards of the central and services and for matters government as part of numerous government and committed state connected with it. legislative reforms to improve governments in the true spirit of India’s economic growth and National Sports University Act, governance irrespective of being boost its image as an investment 2018 was passed by voice vote to ruled by the same political party destination. The Bureau of Indian set up the country’s first National or not. The constitution of India, Standards Act, 2016 was passed Sports University in Imphal despite several flaws, hassles, and to broaden its ambit, and allow (West), Manipur. Accordingly, edginess, has helped in sustaining the central government to make it started functioning in its and flourishing the world’s largest it mandatory for certain notified temporary campus at Khuman democracy for which it has won goods, articles, processes, etc, to Lampak stadium providing admirations from international carry the standard mark under sports education, research, and leaders of the world. Let me the standardization regime. coaching. Manipur had for conclude by citing a remark The Juvenile Justice (Care and long been known as a major by a former premier of India’s Protection of Children) Act, 2015 sporting hub for the exploits and neighbouring country, Nepal, comes into force which provides excellence of our sportspersons Baburam Bhattarai in connection for strengthened provisions for at the national and international with the ‘Samvidhan Divas’ last both children in need of care arena. But the infrastructural and year on 26 November had stated and protection and children in institutional support were always that, Indian Constitution stood conflict with law. Compensatory found wanting. So, the opening the test of time for 70 years and Afforestation Fund Act, 2016 up of National Sports University that Indian democracy is working seeks to provide an appropriate is a great welcome step of the very well due to resilience in the institutional mechanism, both present government which the constitution’ and Nepal has always at the Centre and in each State people of Manipur should duly be been inspired by the democratic and Union Territory, to ensure grateful to. traditions and functioning of expeditious utilization in an Indian democracy.
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70 YEARS OF REPUBLIC INDIA
The Constituent Assembly the people and for the people. ratified the Constitution of The same thought comes to my India on 26 November, 1949 mind. What would happen to after three years of high quality her democratic Constitution? deliberations. The Constitution Will she be able to maintain it of India will be completing its or will she lose is again ?” Nungshitombi Athokpam journey for 70 years during the “.... it is quite possible in a Secretary (Law & Legislative Affairs) current year since it became country like India – where Government of Manipur effective from 26th November, democracy from its long disuse 1950. must be regarded as something the pride of all Indians read as From among the excerpts quite new- there is danger of follows, from the father of the democracy giving place to Constitution, Dr. B.R. dictatorship. It is quite possible “We, the People of India, Ambedkar which left us with for this new born democracy having solemnly resolved thoughts and perspective of to retain its form but give place to constitute India into a our own may be quoted, to dictatorship in fact. If there SOVEREIGN SOCIALIST SECULAR DEMOCRATIC “On the 26th of January 1950, is a landslide, the danger of the second possibility becoming REPUBLIC and to secure to all India would be a democratic its citizens: country in the sense that India actuality is much greater.” from that day would have a The Preamble to the JUSTICE, social, economic government of the people, by Constitution of India which is and political;
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LIBERTY of thought, Lok Sabha and State Assembly by making India a Socialist expression, belief, faith and by another 10 years till 25 Secular Republic. worship; January, 2030 and the said (iii) The 52nd Amendment EQUALITY of status and of Amendment was also to do brought into the Anti opportunity; and to promote away the nomination of Anglo- Defection Law providing among them all Indians Community in the disqualification of Members House of People. from parliament and FRATERNITY assuring the assembly in case of defection Among the Amendment dignity of the individual and from one party to other. the unity and integrity of the made in the Constitution of However, parts of the 10th Nation; India, the most remarkable Schedule to the Constitution amendments are: IN OUR CONSTITUENT of India was struck down by (i) Seventh Amendment which the Supreme Court in the ASSEMBLY this 26 day had amended Articles 3, 49, case of Kihoto Hollohan v. of November, 1949, do 80, 81, 82, 131, 153, 158, 168, Zachillhu 1992 SCR(1) 686, HEREBY ADOPT, ENACT 170, 171, 216, 217, 220, 222, for being in contravention AND GIVE TO OURSELVES 224, 230, 231 and 232. Insert with Article 368 of the THIS CONSTITUTION.” Articles 258A, 290A, 298, Constitution. 350A, 350B, 371, 372A and The Parliament of India which 378A. Amend part 8. Amend (iv) The 61st Amendment to possesses power to amend the schedules 1, 2, 4 and 7. The the Constitution amended Constitution had amended said Amendment abolishes Article 326 and reduces the the Constitution upto 126th State according to classes and age for voting right from 21 times The latest amendment introduces Union Territory to 18 years old. namely, the Constitution of and reorganisation of State (v) The 73rd Amendment India (126th Amendment) by language. brought into the Statutory Act, 2019 had been introduced (ii) The 42nd Amendment provision for Panchayati by the India Parliament on 9 which was also known as the Raj as third level of December, 2019 and passed mini Constitution inserted administration in villages. by Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha socialism and secularism in on 10 December, 2019 and 12 the Preamble, provide for To conclude, the remark by December, 2019 respectively, curtailment of fundamental Granville Austin regarding which was for extension of rights, imposes fundamental the flexibility of the Indian the Reservation of Scheduled duties and changes the basic Constitution may be Caste and Scheduled Tribe in structure as mentioned above remembered, “The Indian Constitution is first and foremost a social document, and is aided by its Parts III & IV (Fundamental Rights & Directive Principles of State Policy, respectively) acting together, as its chief instruments and its conscience, in realising the goals set by it for all the people”.
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WOMEN POWER H. Balkrisna Singh, Director (IPR), Manipur Sagolsem Snehprabha, Editor, MT
he whole world has After Manipur’s merger with state civil service was posted witnessed the significant Indian Union followed by grant of as Deputy Commissioner of role played by the Manipuri statehood on 21st January, 1972, Bishnupur District in 1998 which Twomen in socio-economic, the State witnessed poor and didn’t last for even one year. In political and cultural affairs of almost negligible participation 1990, Vandana Kumari Jena, Manipur society. In historical of women in civil and police a lady IAS officer was posted times, our women had exhibited administration of the state. The as Deputy Commissioner of their might in redressing justice male dominated mindset of the Churachandpur District for in the society. It is believed that administrators, acute shortage of eleven months only. However, during the reign of Nongda female civil servants and police the denizens of Churachandpur Lairen Pankhangba from 33 officers and prevailing fluid law District experienced the sweet A.D. there exist a women’s court and order situation compelled in Manipur popularly known as those who were at the helm of ‘Patcha’ headed by the chief queen State’s administration to think Laisana, who was a member that women cannot make it to of the council of ministers for the field postings. The myth settlement of gender issues. persisted till several decades and The valiant acts of Maharani it obscured and scuttled the worth Linthoingambi, Kumudini, and might of many capable lady princess Kuranganayani and civil servants and police officers. Rani Gaidinliu in the political In the wake of 1990s, there was an administration of Manipur are upsurge in the number of woman worth remembering. The revolt in State’s bureaucracy and police of Manipuri women in 1904 and force. 1939 against the colonial rule In civil and police have testified the worth and might administration, field postings of women’s power. such as Deputy Commissioner Jacintha Lazarus The participation of Manipuri / District Magistrate and taste of district administration women in electoral politics Superintendent of Police of a when Jacintha Lazarus, IAS was of Manipur particularly in district is considered as the most posted as Deputy Commissioner legislative and parliamentary challenging and coveted ones as it of the district from 2009 to elections is very low. However, provides a bedrock of governance. 2014. Jacintha not only holds their participation in local Prior to 1990s, lady IAS officers like the record of serving the longest governance like Panchayats is Raikhan Chhibber, the first lady period as Deputy Commissioner extremely high. In fact, Manipur IAS amongst Tangkhul tribe was of Churachandpur District but has the highest number of elected posted as Deputy Commissioner also achieves the rare distinction women representatives in local of Bishnupur District in 1985 for of serving three districts, governance in all over India. few months. Later, Chingthem Tamenglong, Churachandpur Kipgen, IAS who rose from the
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An important aspect of the Mannuamching, Deputy empowerment of women is the Commissioner, Pherzawl joined extent of their involvement in Manipur Civil Service in 2003 the process of decision making and later inducted into Indian whether at the household level Administrative Service. “The or at the level of community or opportunity to help the needy society. In recent years, women people in several ways inspired in Manipur have broken gender me to chase the civil service barriers and have made their dream”, said Mannuamching who presence felt in almost all spheres has served in various government of society and particularly departments in different in bureaucracy and police capacities before becoming the administration. The myth on Deputy Commissioner of the gender seemed to have been district in 2018. According to eroded with passage of time Mannuamching, the zeal to serve Nidhi Kesarwani and taste of efficiency in district the people with determination and Senapati by a lady bureaucrat administration as well as police and to implement government as Deputy Commissioners. Nidhi administration exemplified by policies is the most important Kesarwani, a lady IAS officer also some capable lady officers during asset of a district administrator. served as Deputy Commissioner their stint in field postings. She believes that no amount of tabletop exercise can beat learning of Senapati District during 2008- With the change of guard in State’s on the field. “After taking over the 2011 and holds the record of the politics since March 2017, the charge of Deputy Commissioner, first lady Deputy Commissioner Chief Minister of Manipur Shri Pherzawl, I wanted to visit as of Senapati District. Imphal East Nongthombam Biren Singh has many villages as possible. But District got the first lady Deputy taken bold decisions in choosing due to the poor road conditions Commissioner when Th. Chitra suitable and capable officers to run Devi, an Indian Administrative civil and police administration Service officer promoted from the in the districts without gender State Civil Service was posted in bias. The boldness of the State’s 2017. Similarly, Haobam Rosita, Chief Minister is reflected in originally from Manipur Civil posting of more and more lady Service who got inducted into bureaucrats and police officers Indian Administrative Service in field postings. At present, became the first lady Deputy the State has seven districts out Commissioner of Thoubalof sixteen districts exclusively District. manned by lady civil servants as Deputy Commissioners and two districts run by lady police officers belonging to the State’s elite Manipur Police Service. In this article, the stories and ordeals Mannuamching of young, energetic and vibrant I was forced to draw maps based women civil servants and police on the seasons. During the ‘Go officers who take great stride in to Village’ campaigns, we had to fulfilling their chosen profession spend the night in most villages and delivering good governance in of the interior areas where we their karmabhumi are chronicled. came face to face with their Great Career Option for Women problems and hardships they face daily. That made us understand A gold medalist in Life Sciences them better and led us closer from Manipur University, Haobam Rosita to their hearts” she elucidates.
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Women bureaucrats of Manipur MPS examination conducted instilled in us discipline, honesty believe that civil service is a by the Manipur Public Service and hard work. It did not occur great career option for women. Commission and was allotted to me that females were in any Mannuamching never considered Manipur Police Service initially way less capable than males. In a civil service as a “male domain” in 2003. In 2004, she changed her fair system, I got the opportunity and feels that there is no glass service to Manipur Civil Service. to throw my hat in the ring ceiling for women in the civil She was inducted into Indian and be selected based on my services. Determination and Administrative Service (IAS) in abilities. In government service, hard work will lead to one’s goal, 2017 and was given the allotment I have the opportunity to serve she said. Mannuamching is the year of 2013. Since the inception the communities in a different second Deputy Commissioner of of Bishnupur District, so far a capacity”. On gender issues, she Pherzawl District after its creation total of 28 Deputy Commissioners believed that women are qualified on 8th December, 2016. have served the district and and capable to do the job. More Neeta Arambam is the third lady often than not, the concept of to serve the district as Deputy glass ceiling is in the mind and Commissioner. societal expectations. As Deputy Commissioner of a new district, she has explored indigenous artisan products which are rooted in Kamjong District for having great potential for development and self sustenance. She believes that leadership and teamwork are the essence of good governance and this synergy will achieve desired goals. Regarding teamwork, Zuringla further, elaborated, “Behind every successful man there is a woman. Neeta Arambam I have a team comprising of a supportive husband who is the Neeta Arambam, Deputy cornerstone of the family, then Commissioner, Bishnupur said my children who understands she is trying to live her best, that I am their mother who love to live upto the expectation Kengoo Zuringla them and are available to them. I of the people of her district. Kengoo Zuringla, Deputy always pledged myself to serve the Neeta Arambam took charge Commissioner of Kamjong larger community. In addition, as the Deputy Commissioner District, a new district created I have an extended family who of Bishnupur District in July after bifurcation from Ukhrul always support me and show love 2019. She has worked in various District in 2016 joined Manipur in action”. Zuringla shared her government departments under Civil Service in 2003 after piece of advice to youths who different capacities before posting serving as Sub-Deputy Collector are aspiring for civil services to as Deputy Commissioner of from 1999 in State’s Revenue have integrity, hard work and Bishnupur District. A post- Department. She was motivated faithfulness and develop “can graduate in English Literature by her father, a retired State Civil do” attitude and drop the word from Calcutta University, Neeta Servant to join bureaucracy. “impossible” for ensuring success. did her schooling from Delhi Zuringla said “Before I joined the Public School, R.K. Puram, civil service, I was a teacher, which Ms N. Bandana Devi, Deputy New Delhi. She first entered was good. I am fortunate to be Commissioner of Thoubal District government service as a Sub- raised in a large family of mainly is an Indian Administrative Deputy Collector in 1999. girls, and I did what any normal Officer of 2012 batch. After Thereafter, she cleared the MCS/ child, boy or girl did. My parents inducted into IAS, she was allotted
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allotment year 2013. Prior to her posting as Deputy Commissioner, Imphal East District, she has worked as Deputy Commissioner of Kangpokpi District, a new district created in 2016 after bifurcation from the erstwhile Senapati District. Earlier, she has also worked as Director of Social Welfare and various other departments as well. At the time of writing this article, news broke out that Dr. Rangitabali Waikhom who conducted the Lok Sabha Elections in Imphal East District Lalithambigai K as District Election Officer in IAS took over the reins of the N. Bandana Devi 2019 has been conferred the “Best first Deputy Commissioner of Manipur Cadre and served as AC Kangpokpi District followed by to DC, Thoubal, SDO, Keirao Shri Pradeep Chandran, IAS Bitra, Director (Tourism), State and Dr. Rangitabali Waikhom, Mission Director, National IAS respectively. Lalithambigai Health Mission and CEO, State acquired a B. Tech (IT) under Health Agency prior to her field Anna University, Tamil Nadu. posting in Thoubal District. She Before joining the office of Deputy studied B. Tech from National Commissioner, Kangpokpi, she Institute of Technology, Warangal was posted as AC to DC, Imphal and is an alumni of Padma Ratna West and SDO, Bishnupur. About English School, Kakching and her pursuit of civil services as Kendriya Vidyalaya, Langjing. a career option, she said, “IAS After holding the post of Deputy as a job is more satisfying. It Commissioner, Thoubal, provides opportunities to serve Bandana has been focusing on in leadership and key positions healthcare, education and social Dr. Rangitabali Waikhom in government. Unlike any other sector and she has been striving to job which remains confined to the improve these areas for the people Electoral Practices Awards, 2019” organization you work for, Civil of Thoubal District. Currently, under the category of “Inclusive Services gives an ample scope with she is busy engaging herself in and Participative Elections” by power and more responsibility to land acquisition matters as road the Election Commission of work towards the society with expansion of Imphal-Moreh India (ECI). The award would be all your heart and mind”. About Highway is in good progress. N. distributed on “National Voters the stereotypical characteristics Bandana Devi is the second lady Day, 2020” on 25th January, 2020 of women affecting occupational Deputy Commissioner to serve at New Delhi. segregation by gender, the DC, Thoubal District. Kangpokpi said, “No service is Lalithambigai K, an IAS officer limited to a particular gender. I Dr. Rangitabali Waikhom, of 2012 batch is currently serving feel IAS for women is the same as Deputy Commissioner of as Deputy Commissioner of the men. You have same jobs, same Imphal East District who holds newly created Kangpokpi District. work, same opportunity. Having a doctorate in History from She took charge as the second said, I feel women have a far greater Manipur University joined lady Deputy Commissioner of the capacity for compassion and at Manipur Civil Service in the year district since 2019. Immediately the same time they are tough and 2007 and inducted into Indian after the new district wasunderstanding”. She further said, Administrative Service with formed, Shri T. Ranjit Singh, “I think there is no glass ceiling for
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women in civil services. Everyone of being a family woman and a come through our own merit in working woman. It is manageable. our recruitment and postings. So no sweat about it, but join However, women also work this service out of passion and hard to prove their professional compassion”. competence for not being taken Victoria Yengkhom, who became lightly”. Like other Deputy Superintendent of Police, Commissioners, Lalithambigai Kakching in 2018 is one of the accords priority to school few lucky ones whose childhood education and health as potential ambition has become a reality. A drivers of development and one Masters in History from Delhi of the powerful instruments University, she joined Manipur for overcoming poverty and Police Service in 2007 and had to have better living. She said, faced discrimination a few times “We as district administrator early on in her career. However, aim for strengthening nutrition, her patience and hard work paved safe drinking water, women Valentina Arambam empowerment, immunization, after bifurcation from Thoubal sanitation, literacy etc. This could District in 2016. She succeeded be achieved only through greater Dr. Neilenthang Telien, IAS. Shri transparency and accountability”. Th. Kirankumar Singh, IAS was On the qualities of an efficient the first Deputy Commissioner district administrator, she said, of Kakching District. An M.A. “Patience is an important quality in Economics, Valentina got into a district administrator should Manipur Civil Service in 2007 possess. We need to listen to and inducted into the Indian people who just travel long way to Administrative Service in 2019. meet you to share their grievances. She wanted to be a civil servant Other qualities like quick decision right from her childhood. Before making, commitment, emotional the field posting, she was earlier stability, personal integrity also serving in Manipur Secretariat needed”. About her role as home under different capacities. On the maker and a bureaucrat, she said, new role of Deputy Commissioner “Balancing work and family is of a new district, she gave priority Victoria Yengkhom more significant as woman is the to rural development, promotion the way for success in service. maker of the house. We have to of agriculture and agro-based The much-decorated officer was work, feed our family, celebrate industries, waste management, awarded the Director General festivals and have many other implementation of healthcare of Police, Manipur, Medal & family responsibilities. For this, schemes and conservation of Certificate of Commendation we need to be clear and specific agricultural land. On her personal for outstanding work in Law about our responsibilities at home experiences of field posting, she and Order Duties in 2011 and and office. We need to channel said, “If you empathize with your International Association of our time. We ought to be self- people, you are willing to listen Women Police Scholarship dependent, have right attitude to their problems, then you want Award, Cardiff, Wales, UK in and open communication with to find out the core areas where 2015. Last year, Ms Victoria won the family members for better you need to focus on to alleviate the Chief Minister’s Manipur understanding”. their poverty and improve their conditions”. Valentina encourages Trophy, 2019 in Community Valentina Arambam is the first young girls who wants to step into Policing. “A Cycle Patrol Unit lady Deputy Commissioner the Civil Services, “It is a tough with 65 cycles has been started to have worked in Kakching job, in the sense that you have since 5th November 2018 in the District which was created to juggle between full-time jobs district”, she said. Victoria’s next
18 Manipur Today, January, 2020 plan is to incorporate technology in a “male domain” and as such Manipur Police Service in 2007. (such as CCTV cameras) to stereotypical characteristics She did her graduation in Botany control crimes in her district. should not be a reason for from Miranda House, New Delhi On her ambition of brining good deciding what a woman should and did her M.Phil in Botany governance and transparency, be,” she said. Priyadarshini also from Delhi University. She Victoria stated, “Good governance added that there hasn’t been any also acquired a degree in Law comes from good employees. instance where an extra effort has which appropriately suits the Capacity building, zeal to deliver to be made because of her gender. requirements of her job. After services must be high amongst Priyadarshini has been awarded clearing the NET examination the employees. As a head of DGP’s commendation for conducted by the University the district, one must focus on outstanding devotion to duty and Grants Commission (UGC), she pushing the employees to be Union Home Minister’s Medal had a brief teaching experience in their best. All employees must for Excellence in Training (2015- a college under Delhi University. be involved in decision making 2016). Regarding Home-Office On her joining the State Police processes”. Balancing, she said, “Home- Force, Sarma said, “The charm office has never been easy which of a civil servant especially only gets compounded when you are in a field posting with 24x7 responsibilities. A supportive In civil and police family makes all the difference”. administration, field postings She further said, “24x7 job has such as Deputy Commissioner made me a better manager of my / District Magistrate and time and resources. Thanks to an Superintendent of Police of a understanding husband, there has district is considered as the not been an issue with engaging most challenging and coveted hands for daily chores in the ones as it provides a bedrock of home front which of course are all governance. under my supervision. I believe Priyadarshini Laishram that it is not the number of hours the powerful command of an empowered woman such as Kiran Priyadarshini Laishram, Bedi inspired me to become a Superintendent of Police, police officer”. Responding to a Bishnupur also endorsed the query on stereotypical gender bias effectiveness of community-based in police establishment, she said, policing as one of the thrust areas “To succeed in the male dominant to better the lives of the people of profession gives me a confidence her district. “As the head of the of gender equality and above all District police, my thrust area is the authority and responsibility to project police as servants of to inspire other women to scale the public and as a force to take any height of male dominated on any law-breakers. We have to profession. Women in police were win the hearts and confidence given lenient postings in the early of the people, reach out to the part of my career. But now things aggrieved and needy and ensure have significantly changed”. She a peaceful, healthy society with laid emphasis on her priority of community-based policing”, she traffic management of crowded said. Priyadarshini who joined Khoisnam Sarma Imphal city to connectivity and Manipur Police Service in 2007, spent together with family that awareness. She said, “Connectivity said it’s fascinating to work and matters in keeping a home intact”. in every sense, roads, internet succeed in the so-called “male infrastructure, etc. Imparting domain”. “I could send out the Khoisnam Sarma, Superintendent awareness of our rights, abiding message that a woman can be of Police, Traffic Control joined traffic rules and understanding
19 Manipur Today, January, 2020
our responsibilities are key areas Students Union and an avid friendly police. She believes that for overall improvement in the lover of Polo, an indigenous every woman should be in the traffic management”. Sarmagame of Manipur, an inspiration driver’s seat; a woman should envisions a Safer Manipur by she cherished from her father, chase her dreams and control her reducing road accidents by way Shri Khoisnam Sunilkumar who destiny. Like other lady police of good awareness of traffic rules had been a polo coach training officer, Sarma maintains a healthy and accelerating the awareness thousands of players both local equilibrium between home and process. A police officerand international since the past 45 office. She said, “Balancing home with grit and determination years, Khoisnam Sarma believes and work comes with love of your strengthened and nurtured by that good governance comes with profession. Once you love your varied experiences in college being one and being connected. job, rest falls in place”. days when she joined students’ She has strong desire to ensure politics under Delhi University community policing and public
20 Manipur Today, January, 2020 GENDER EQUALITY MANIPURI WOMEN: PRESENT STATUS AND FUTURE ROADMAP
Meeting of elected members of Panchayati Raj Institutions on the water conservation and rain water harvesting as initiated by the PM of India
o m e n Sexual violence and exploitation, comparatively high when and girls the unequal division of unpaid compared with women in other represent half care and domestic work and states of India, that like other of the world’s discrimination in public work all women, they also perform population remain huge barriers. Ensuring the triple tasks of housework, therefore gender inequality equal rights to economic resources productive work, and community Wis pervasive worldwide and such as land and property are vital managing work, but they are impedes social progress. Ending targets for realizing this goal, as more socially visible outside the all forms of discrimination is ensuring universal access to home front and are relatively against women and girls is not sexual and reproductive health. more economically active and only a basic human right but There are today more women independent than women in it is also crucial to accelerating in public office than ever before the rest of India. The Planning sustainable development; studies but encouraging women leaders Commission of India, in its have proved that empowering will help strengthen policies and National Human Development women and girls has a multiplier legislation for greater equality. Report 2001 had calculated driving up economic growth and an index, the gender disparity WOMEN IN MANIPUR development. There are still huge index; values of All India and inequalities in the labour market Women in Manipur occupy Manipur show that the gender in some regions with women a unique status in society, disparity index is higher in still systematically denied jobs. their position and status is Manipur indicating lower gender
21 Manipur Today, January, 2020 inequality, compared to all India extent of their involvement in men and two were women. Out of figures. The index is highest for the process of decision making 61 ZP members, 39 (63.9%) were Manipur compared to all the whether at the household level or men and 22(36.1%) were women. other states of the Northeast, at the level of the community or There are no Manipuri women in both 1981 and 1991. Despite society that is in the Government. judges in the Supreme Court and the positive figures, we need to High Courts but their proportion The representation of women question whether there is less in lower courts is quite high. gender inequality in Manipur. in formal electoral politics is Are Manipuri women able to quite low as is evident from the result of two assembly elections. compare favourably with men on NUMBER OF WOMEN For 18 years, that is from 1972 all aspects related to sustainable JUDGES IN MANIPUR development goals as the above until 1990/91 Manipur had to index suggests? wait for the first woman MLA, Courts Women Men To- % of the late Hangmila Shaiza from tal Women WOMEN AND EDUCATION Ukhrul Assembly constituency in 1990/91. Then K. Apabi Devi from When women are well-educated, High - 3 3 - there are positive externalities in Oinam AC and later W. Leima Courts the form of favourable changes in Devi from Naoriya Pakhanglakpa Lower 12 15 27 44 reproductive behaviour (delaying AC. W. Leima Devi went on to Courts marriage, better spacing of become a Minister of State. In the 10th Legislative Assembly DECISION MAKING IN THE children, earlier cessation of HOUSEHOLD childbearing, etc.), better use of elections, 2012, three women health services, etc., all contribute MLAs were elected at the same The participation of women to lowering infant and child time, namely O. Landhoni Devi in household decision making mortality rates, adoption of small (Khangabok AC, AK. Mirabai is quite high in Manipur. But family norms, better child care Devi (Patsoi AC), and Nemcha this does not get translated into through improved hygiene and Kipgen (Kangpokpi AC). In 2017 greater decision making power nutrition of children, enhanced AK Mirabai Devi and Nemcha at the state level. They are still socio-economic status of families Kipgen were successful and the under-represented at policy and and empowerment of women. latter became a minister. Thus, decision-making levels. Women Manipur had just eight women in Manipur, exercise an active Women often receive lessMLAs and one woman MP in role as Meira Paibis, as a collective education than men because of some 45 years of elective exercise. force in times of crisis they are social norms and discriminatory strong, but their contributions treatment towards them. There STATUS OF WOMEN IN PANCHAYATI RAJ are forgotten later as they are still has been less investment in the under the dictates of patriarchy education of daughters from the INSTITUTIONS (AS ON 15-11- 2016) and when it comes to being in earliest times because they were the forefront of decision making perceived as bringing no return The picture regardingpower, we see a diminished role to parents, whereas investment in representation at local Panchayati of the Manipuri women. They sons was believed to have larger Raj institutions is a bit different. We are yet to make a mark in society economic payoffs (Malhotra,see that at the local level, women as capable leaders and decision- Vanneman and Kishor 1995: 285). are well-represented, sometimes makers. The gender gap in education has crossing one-third mark. For followed a shaped path over the instance, in the 2007 Panchayat WOMEN AND ECONOMIC years but a double-digit gap is still elections, out of 165 Gram PARTICIPATION there. Pradhans, there were 110(66.7%) Economic disparity is also another WOMEN IN DECISION men and 55(33.3%) women. Out important feature of women’s lives. MAKING of members, 1,511 GP members, Women’s economic contribution 962(63.7%) were men and is limited when women are not An important aspect of the 539(35.7%) were women. Out of employed. Globally, women are empowerment of women is the four Zilla Adhyakshas, two were less engaged in paid employment
22 Manipur Today, January, 2020
than men. Women’s economic ‘female areas’ which tend to attract thus are concentrated at different participation equals women’s lower rewards and less prestige. levels of the labour hierarchy. economic empowerment. Women likely to be working in There are barriers that hamper Increasing the number of ‘men’s jobs’ than the opposite, but, women’s movement into more women in the workforce is an as a rule, women are employed in senior and managerial positions, important objective, but if they a narrower range of occupations referred to as ‘glass ceiling’. Even enter it under poor conditions, than men. They dominate in in occupations dominated by their empowerment may not clerical and secretarial jobs and women, men often occupy the be improved. Exploitation, low-end service occupations (as more skilled, “responsible” and dangerous or stigmatized work, shop assistants, waitresses, maids, “better-paid positions” (United low pay and job insecurity hairdressers, dressmakers) and as Nations 2009:29). are unfavourable terms often professionals, they are most likely Occupational segregation by encountered by women. to be teachers or nurses. These gender occurs everywhere. ‘female occupations’ in general, According to NSS data, both in It causes labour market and pay less and have lesser status urban areas and in rural areas, economic inefficiency, wastes and advancement prospects. male work participation rates human resources, prevents Horizontal segregation refers (WPR) are higher than the change, disadvantages women and to the distribution of men and female WPR. Rural female WPR perpetuates gender inequalities. women across occupations (e.g. have declined for Manipur from women as maids and secretaries GENDER WAGE GAP 35.95% in 1983 to only 21.2 % in and men as truck drivers 2009-10. The figure has increased and doctors); while ‘vertical Women’s concentration in lower- slightly to 26.2 % in 2009-10, segregation’ refers to distribution paying predominantly female while that of India fell from 34% of men and women in the job jobs and their exclusion from to 26.1%. The figure has increased hierarchy in terms of status higher-paying jobs held mostly slightly to 26.2% in 2011-12. The within an occupation, and one sex by men both help explain the figures for female WPR in rural is at a higher grade or level (e.g. gender wage gap. Human capital areas for India in 2009-10 are production workers production theorists attribute the gender higher than those of Manipur. supervisors; or doctors versus wage gap where women earn less than men to the difference in the Women’s employment is nurses, senior managers, versus kind and amount of human capita concentrated in a relatively small managers) (United Nations 1999; each has accumulated. Feminist number of occupations dubbed Anker 2002). Women and men
23 Manipur Today, January, 2020
scholars point out the many ways that of 2005-06. This figure does in health an investment in human in which social factors shape not include the accounts opened resources development on wage setting and wage inequality. under Prime Minister Jan Dhan which the nation’s development They have also suggested that Yojna, a new scheme for financial depends, but most importantly, institutional or structural factors, inclusion. If it is included the health improves a women’s quality as well as individual-level factors, percentage may be higher. of life, and hence is an important contribute to the gender wage gap. element in fostering human WOMEN HAVING MOBILE development. WOMEN AND ACCESS TO PHONE RESOURCES Reproductive health is one of The figures for women having the most important aspects of a Gender differences in access to a mobile phone are quite high woman’s health. The percentage resources occur because men for Manipur, better than all of women married before 18 are more likely to be perceived India figures. However, there is years of age are lower for Manipur as workers needing these inputs still a rural-urban gap of 13.8 in compared to all India figures. and because laws sometimes Manipur. In this era of the digital Percentages of women who use bar women from ownership of age, the use of mobile phones is family planning methods are property and other goods needed becoming an indispensable part lower for Manipur compared for production or collateral of daily life. Therefore, women to India as a whole, both in the purposes. The right to land in law need to enhance further use of use of any method as well as is never implemented. Traditional ICT in the coming days to catch in the use of modern methods. India had seen women only as up with the digital revolution Unmet needs for family planning members of families or groups, which is taking place at a rapid and spacing are also higher for as daughters, wives, and mothers pace. Manipur compared to India. and not as individuals with an Except for the hill districts of identity or right of their own. Ukhrul and Tamenglong, the Gender differences in access “An important aspect percentage of mothers who have to information occur mainly of the empowerment an antenatal check-up in the first because of women’s lesser trimester is higher for Manipur freedom of movement from the of women is the as compared to all India figures. home and their lack of time to extent of their The percentages of mothers join membership organizations involvement in the who had full antenatal care were or interact in the market due to higher for Manipur compared domestic responsibilities and/ process of decision to all India figures, except for or cultural restrictions (Kantor making whether at the hill districts of Chandel, 2002: 287). Regarding access to the household level Churachandpur, Ukhrul, skill improvement and training, Senapati, Tamenglong. Delivery extension service is an example, or at the level of care in terms of institutional which reaches only men, with the community or births and institutional births in women continuing to perform public facilities were low for all unskilled tasks in the agricultural society that is in the the hill districts of Manipur. The sector. Government”. percentage of such care for the The percentage of women having valley districts of Imphal East, bank accounts is still low in WOMEN AND Imphal West and Bishnupur Manipur compared to the overall REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH district was better than the all picture of India as a whole. In India figure. The percentages of Health can be considered a rural areas, it is as low as just pregnant women, all women, and person’s greatest possession and is 29.7%. Only one-third of the men with anaemia was lower for a major determinant of a person’s women population has a bank Manipur for all districts compared quality of life. The health of account compared to more than to all India figures which says women is an important factor in 50% of the all India average. But much about the diet of people of determining the overall health of the figure is high compared to Manipur. society. Not only is an investment
24 Manipur Today, January, 2020
WOMEN AND VIOLENCE greater access to decision making The total number of crimes power in the home. Yet the against women has risen from 105 Violence against women in incidence of domestic violence is in 1999 to 147 in 2001 according India may span their entire life- to the extent of 43.9% according to the DIG crime branch, Imphal. cycle; from conception until to the national family health But these are only reported cases. death. Such violence may begin sample survey-3 (IIPS 2007). If There may be many unreported with sex-selective abortions there is greater decision-making cases. and female infanticide as well as power, it should imply more discrimination in the upbringing Thus, Manipuri women are not power and hence less violence. It of girls versus boys; in terms of free from violence and abuse in could be interpreted that women opportunities for education and their lives despite their economic have greater access to decision- skill formation, in terms of food independence. This could entail and nutrition, and also in terms that social norms still restrict of the household work that the “Women in women from enjoying their girl child is expected to share. It freedom of enterprise as a full- may include: health care disparity, Manipur occupy fledged human being, in a liberal child marriage, even child a unique status atmosphere that guarantees prostitution, covert and overt acts her freedom of expression and of emotional and physical abuse, in society, their freedom of just being herself, forced marital relations, sexual position and status without having to bow to social exploitation and rape within dictates of what a good woman marriage and without, incest, is comparatively should be. dowry-related abuse and death, high when The rate of incidence of crimes destitution of widows, divorcees against women has declined from and the deserted, and even compared with 2014 to 2015. The most positive female genital mutilation. “Most women in other aspect of women in Manipur is of these are not even recognised that there are no dowry-related as a form of violence and are states of India” crimes against women. However, often condoned or justified on the percentage of crimes against grounds of religious, cultural women to total crimes within the and traditional social norms or making power because of greater state is higher than that of India on grounds of attracting social economic independence. Theas a whole. For example, it is 7% stigma and thus jeopardising the man of the house could resent this, in 2014 for Manipur, while it was social status of the concerned leading to incidents of violence. only 5% for India in 2014. The family” (IAMR 2011: 105-106; On the one hand, women of figures are 5% for Manipur in Planning Commission 2001). Manipur have greater economic 2015, but 4% for India. In recent years, Manipur has independence; on the other Disclaimer: Adapted from seen an increase in domestic hand, they are still not free from Planning Department’s Manipur violence and instances of wife drudgery and abuse in their lives. Vision 2030: Leaving no one battering in Manipur homes. The Though there are practically no behind. Achieving Inclusive number of cases filed at the family cases of dowry harassment nor of Growth and the Sustainable courts relating to the demand for bride burning, rape, molestation, Development Goals. maintenance increased from 133 forced marriage, and marital in 2001 to 203 in 2003 (IHD 2006: violence rising divorce rates and 240). Women in Manipur have polygamy also prevail in Manipur.
25 Manipur Today, January, 2020 NEMCHA KIPGEN MINISTER, SOCIAL WELFARE AND COOPERATION EMPOWERING AND ENSURING SAFETY OF WOMEN Lanshinganglu Kamei Prisca Information Assistant
Photo: Okendro Sanasam
mt. Nemcha Kipgen, 55, is an Indian politician and a member of the Manipur Legislative Assembly who is currently serving as the Minister for Department of Social Welfare and Cooperation in the Government of Manipur. She is a member of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Nemcha has been elected from Kangpokpi Assembly Constituency for two consecutive terms. In an exclusive interview, Nemcha, who is the lone woman minister in the cabinet, said safety and security of women and Schildren in the State are of utmost priority for the Government. 26 Manipur Today, January, 2020
As a minister for department of As a whole in the Indian social violence both in the public and social welfare and cooperation context, backwardness for women private sphere of life has been in the government of Manipur, are generally due to social norms— set up since 23rd June 2017. The what are your topmost priorities? resulting in a high percentage directorate of social welfare has of illiteracy, female infanticide, received 432 calls with cases since Representing the people of this dowry system, etc. However, the its inception. Out of these, 381 state as a lone woman minister in status of women, their safety and cases have been already solved. the cabinet, I always strive to work security concerns are much better In 2019, the directorate rescued for the welfare and development in the state as compared to the 179 (147 female and 32 male of of all the people of Manipur. rest of the country. Safety and Nepali origin) from trafficking. Serving the masses through the security of women and children They were safely repatriated back best of my capabilities stands in the state are of utmost priority to Nepal as the topmost priorities. This for the government. includes implementing all the What steps are being taken up to welfare schemes and programs of We have ensured that violence facilitate women who are victims the government in such a way that against women—in domestic as of violence? it directly reaches the deserving well as in the workplace—is a beneficiaries without thething of the past. We have strictly Besides, establishing One Stop involvement of any middleman. enforced special laws related to Centres across the entire state women such as protection of and women helpline under the Being the lone female minister women from domestic violence Nirbhaya fund, the Directorate of in the cabinet, your views/ act, 2005; the sexual harassment of Social Welfare, Manipur are also opinions on what should be done women at workplace (prevention, rehabilitating victims of violence. to redress this problem. What are prohibition and redressal) act, Centrally sponsored programmes your plans for the upliftment of 2013. under the ministry of women women in the state? and child development such as One Stop Centres (OSCs) in Swadhar Greh homes provide It is a well-known fact that each district of the state have primary need of shelter, food, Manipuri women are known been established and has started clothing etc. To women who are for their valor, skill and active functioning under the Nirbhaya living in difficult circumstances involvement in many social, fund for women’s safety and without any social and economic economic, political and cultural security. OSCs provide integrated support, who are victims of activities. Representing the support and assistance service domestic violence, deserted etc. women folks, I would like to both emergency and non- 23 such homes are operational uplift the Manipuri women by emergency to women affected at present in the state which is empowering and promoting by violence under one roof by implemented through various their skills and talents mainly providing counselling, legal aids, NGOs. through cooperation movement. medical aids etc. So far, 26 cases Cooperative way of working have been registered in the one Ujjawala homes provide together has been in existence in stop centre (Thoubal), the first rehabilitation to victims of our state both in the hill and plain pilot OSCs in the state. trafficking for commercial sexual areas since time immemorial. exploitation. At present, 19 At present, there are 10, 916 The government is also committed such homes run by NGOs are cooperative societies with some 8 to preventing trafficking and operational in the state. lakh members in Manipur. rescue and rehabilitation of victims of trafficking. For this, Further, with the state funds, How does the state fare in regards women helpline (181) to provide Manipur commission for to safety and security of the child 24 hours helpline toll-free protection of women has been and women vis-à-vis the rest of telephone helpline services both set up under the Manipur state the country. Also, how you will emergency and non-emergency commission for women act, ensure their safety? response to women affected by 2006 to safeguard the interest of
27 Manipur Today, January, 2020
women. Various cases relating also hinder accessing the services. the safety and security of women. to land dispute, rape case, death, Action has to be expedited and domestic violence, physical What steps are being taken up by not delayed. For that, officers assault cases, attempt of rape, acid the directorate in regards to the and staff need to be trained and attack etc. Have been taken up. safety and security of children? accountability has to be fixed.
The Sexual Harassment of Women Steps such as the implementation Also when women come and at Work Place (prevention, of the Integrated Child Protection complain, their safety should be prohibition and redressal) act, Scheme (ICPS) scheme and prioritized and ensured. If it is 2013 provides protection against setting up of statutory bodies a girl child, then extra care and sexual harassment of women at like Child Welfare Committee support should be given. workplace. The local complaints (CWCS) and Juvenile Justice committee (LCC) for 10 districts Boards (JJBS) under the Juvenile And lastly, to put maximum effort i.e. Tengnoupal, Jiribam, Imphal Justice act are taken up to ensure to successfully implement the East, Imphal West, Thoubal, safety and security of children. one stop centers and extend the Noney, Kamjong, Kakching, support services to ensure the Bishnupur and Ukhrul and the The state offers a provision of 24x7 safety of women. Internal Complaints Committee short stay home for vulnerable (ICC) for the department of social and victimized children at 14 Please share your dreams and welfare, government of Manipur NGOs run open shelter under expectations (for a Manipur have been constituted. No cases/ ICPS. Provisions for long term where there is equitable complaint of sexual harassment rehabilitation for further re- development). of women at work place has been integration of less privileged received till date. children are provided at 37(36 I dream of a society where we NGO and one Government) strongly encourage and put forth Challenges and hiccups to one children home under ICPS. in action any activities that will, stop centres in turn, provides us all with a Awareness and sensitization sustainable development that will As assured during my spot visit campaigns for Protection last for many generations to come. in 2017 at Sakhi One Stop Centre, of Children Offences Act at Thoubal Mini Secretariat (POCSO), 2012 model rules and Let us always live in peace and complex, the 1st ever centre in the implementation of the various unity irrespective of caste, creed, state, “One Stop Centre (OSC) is provision laid down under the act and religion. now a reality in all the districts are also conducted at the district of Manipur. The latest, ‘one-stop level. centre’, Kangpokpi, which was inaugurated on 20th November Apart from POCSO act, 2012, 2019 is running successfully special laws related to children such as juvenile justice (Care And We also faced challenges and Protection of Children) act, 2015, hiccups such as accessibility-there the commissions for protection are many places where there is of child rights act, 2005, are also no mobile connectivity or access strictly enforced. to mass media like TV or Radio. Women staying in those areas may What are the directions you give find it difficult to communicate to department officers for the with OSC. Another challenge safety of women? is social restrictions, where the victims are not allowed to make First and foremost as responsible her complaint and moreover the citizens and agents of change, to presence of customary laws can work with dedication to ensure
28 Manipur Today, January, 2020 BETI BACHAO BETI PADHAO INNOVATIVE INITIATIVES, IMPHAL EAST DISTRICT Dr. Rangitabali Waikhom Deputy Commissioner, Imphal East
he district Rural Livelihood Mission, PHED large number of women in India administration etc. In most instances, whether cannot afford sanitary products, views Beti Bachao it be various programmes like with hundreds of millions using Beti Padhao (BBBP) water harvesting, tree plantation, unhygienic substitutes, like leaves, scheme in a holistic Poshan Abhiyan Mission, Swachh newspapers, rags, husk, sand and manner. Imphal East despite Bharat Mission, Rural Livelihood hay. Poor menstrual hygiene Thaving limited resources and Mission, Election etc., the concept can cause fungal infections, inadequate infrastructure, of BBBP and the importance of Reproductive Tract Infection maximum and consistent efforts girl child and empowering women (RTI) and Urinary Tract Infection were made to optimise the were emphasized. This successful (UTI). Unhygienic practices available resources. The district convergence is one of the fruitful also leave women vulnerable to administration has taken up the innovative initiatives done in the infertility. Cervical cancer is the cause of BBBP by thinking out of district which has given positive most common woman related the box possibilities. One of the outcome in various domains. cancer in India, of 60,000 cases biggest achievements is the effort per year two thirds are due to poor Free distribution of reusable/ made for convergence of various menstrual hygiene. Menstruation washable sanitary kits to the activities taken up by different is a rarely discussed topic in girls’ students of government/ line departments. The overall homes and schools in India. Poor government aided schools under outcome of the main objectives of Menstrual Hygiene is due to Corporate Social Responsibility: saving girl child, giving education lack of awareness, reproductive to girls, empowering women More than 70% of girls in health education, water supply, financially, socially and politically India have no knowledge of availability and quality of napkins, all become more relevant with menstruation before their proper disposal of napkins, the convergence of BBBP with menarche (first period). 80% of privacy, and family support. other interventions of Education, their mothers consider this a taboo Under the initiative of the Health, Social Welfare, RD & PR, subject not to be spoken about. A
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support of the office of the Zonal Education Officer, Imphal East District by clubbing contiguous government/government aided schools. The first phase was planned in such a manner so that some of the schools will be covered before the winter break in the current academic session of the schools. A total of 3245 sanitary pads were distributed to girl students (AC wise break up- Khundrakpam - 360, khurai- 250, Thongju-94, Keirao-213, Andro-720, Lamlai- 268, Yaiskul- 354 and Wangkhei- 986).
Deputy Commissioner, Imphal providing reusable and washable Educational programmes on East, District Administration, sanitary pads. These pads and menstrual management and Imphal East has rolled out an menstrual hygiene educational hygiene: innovative initiative of providing programs provide a way for girls to The sessions are conducted by reusable sanitary pads along stay in school while menstruating, the “Bleed with pride” team from with educational workshops to giving them a greater chance of Global Shapers Imphal Hub to the school going girls studying completing their education and to the government / government in Class 6 to Class 12 in all bleed with pride. aided schools targeting girls, boys Government and Government District Administration Imphal and teachers. The session can be Aided schools in the district. East has able to take up this summarized as follows- Altogether, there are roughly initiative with the support and around 5000 girls students in 1. Workshop addressing – cooperation of Shashi Kiran these classes in the government a. Taboos and stigma around Charitable Trust, in partnership /government aided schools menstruation with the Mooncatcher Project, functioning in Imphal East. The b. Menstrual health and hygiene USA by receiving 5000 eco- main objective of this initiative friendly washable reusable 2. Demonstration and distribution is to provide fundamental sanitary pad kits (each kit has of reusable sanitary pads which awareness and education on three pads with life span of are sponsored by Shashi Kiran menstrual hygiene and to ensure two years) under CSR along Charitable Trust that girl students in these schools with educational workshops on complete their education without After breaking the taboos around Menstrual Awareness, Hygiene any hindrance. Available data menstruation, the next focus area and Management (MAHM) with indicates that girls during their is menstrual health and hygiene. the support of Global Shapers, periods are either out of schools The girls are asked if they are proud Imphal Hub “Knowledge and for various reasons and mainly to menstruate. The team explains implementation” partners. due to not having accessibility to them what is menstruation and sanitary pads. In many instances it In order to make sure that why it is important. The team becomes a reason for the puberty no schools are left out and to follows the “Guide for menstrual hit girls dropping out of schools. make the session impactful, the Hygiene workshop” provided by Understanding this important distribution of pads and the The MoonCatcher Project. The but often unaddressed issue, the session on menstruation is done workshop is divided into the District Administration Imphal separately for the 10 Assembly following 5 sections- East has succeeded in making a Constituencies of Imphal District. 1. Growing up meaningful intervention touching An exhaustive District Action 2. Nutrition the lives of these young girls by Plan was worked out with the
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these young girls by the district administration, these young girls participated in the district level programs and interacted with other children in the same platform. Beti Bachao Beti Padhao state level u-17 girls football tournament 2019 : The district administration Imphal East organised the first of its kind State Level U-17 (7 A-side) girls BBBP football tournament in a befitting 3. Physiology of menstruation signature campaign in the midst manner. Altogether 8 teams from 4. Menstrual management of hundreds of very young girls different districts participated. 5. Hygiene along with AWW/AWH, parents, This event is organised with an officials, elected ULBs, PRIs etc. After the completion of the aim to generate awareness and sessions, it is followed by Financial support given to 25 improve the efficiency of welfare demonstration of the reusable PLHIV orphan girls: services intended for girls under sanitary pads to be distributed. BBBP. This event will provide a There are numerous cases of The demonstration is followed by platform for our young talented young children who are either the pad distribution. girls while also promoting women infected or affected by HIV AIDS empowerment and highlighting Distribution of E-SLATE to the in the district. Many of these our state as an epitome of girls of Anganwadi centres under infected children are orphans girls equal participation and Corporate Social Responsibility: where both parents expired and contribution in the Indian Sports are either in the NGO run homes The district administration in achievements. or under the care and protection collaboration with Rustomji of relatives. Some children are “Ningol Singgi Sheishak Kerawalla Foundation and with with single parent mother who Sheidanaba”-Imphal East Girls the support of the Member of themselves are PLHIV. Apart Idol Contest and Felicitation of Parliament (RS) distributed five from stigma and discrimination women achievers in the field of hundred E-SLATES to the young these HIV infected children music/cinema/dance : girls of Anganwadi Centres in are facing numerous hardships. the district as an ideal tool for The district administration The district administration in promoting digital literacy amongst Imphal East organised the GIRLS collaboration with the District children in Anganwadis centres. IDOL CONTEST with an aim to Aids Protection Control Unit, It is also an innovative initiative generate awareness about BBBP Imphal East identified 25 PLHIV in order to reduce the growing and provide a solid platform for orphan girls who are pursuing digital divide between children the talented girls of the district education for extending support from disadvantaged sections of to showcase their talents and by way of opening bank account the society vis a vis their well of creativity and empower them in with fixed deposit of Rs. 10,000 counter parts. It will enable in taking up careers of their choice. each for a period of five years. reducing carbon footprint and This event of Idol Contest was This has led to bridging the gap make new generation of rural deliberately clubbed with the and bringing these young girls to young kids digitally empowered felicitation of the renowned the various activities taken up by from day one. The distribution Women Achievers in the field of the district administration for the of the E-SLATE was done in a Cine world, Music and Dance. fulfilment of the core objective of very conducive environment Interaction of the young aspiring educating girls and empowering with the launching of the BBBP talented young girls with the well them. As a part of mainstreaming acclaimed women faces enabled
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to bring a harmonious blending of the different generations in the platform created by the district administration. The young girls had the opportunity to showcase their skills and to further groom the young girls for a brighter future. Role model initiative on women empowerment: The 19th Lok Sabha elections in the Imphal East District scripted history for having an entire Assembly Constituency manned by all women polling officials. Rigorous SVEEP campaign integrating BBBP and other women and child related schemes in the district with the electoral participation and ethical voting led to massive enrollment and voter turnout. There is a perceptible increase in the voter turnout among females in 2019 Lok Sabha elections as compared to the 2014 Lok Sabha Elections. The district voter turnout in all categories is higher than the state turnouts in LSE 2019. 55 Polling Stations were selected and manned by women only for the first time, which includes all the Polling Stations of entire 14-Yaiskul AC, four PSs in Thongju AC, four PSs in Kshetrigao AC, three PSs in Heingang AC, six PSs in Khurai AC. These women PSs were named ‘EETA Polling Station’. Some of the EETA model PSs had women security personnel only. The district administration is taking a holistic approach to uplift the status and condition of women including girls. The various departments, civil society and the general public are supporting the administration in this endeavour. The district administration expects positive changes in 2020.
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WHY MANIPUR OBSERVES NUPEE LAL DAY Government fully committed emembering the Shri N. Biren Singh also said that to uphold dignity and honour brave Mothers of it’s a matter of pride that Manipur of women Manipur who fought topped in women ownership --Shri N. Biren Singh, against the mighty of Micro, Small and Medium Chief Minister, Manipur British, the State Enterprise (MSME) businesses level ‘Nupee Lal Day, 2019’ was in the country. Manipur women Robserved at Nupee Lal Memorial owned 50% of the MSME Deputy CM Shri Y. Joykumar Complex, Imphal on 12th businesses when compared to Singh stressed on the role of December 2019. national figure which is about 20- Manipuri women in Nation 30%, he added. building. Paying tribute to all Chief Minister Shri N. Biren Singh the brave mothers of Manipur, said that the present government Mentioning that the present venue he narrated the courage of the is fully committed to uphold the for the Nupee Lal observation is Mothers who fought against dignity and honour of women. He creating certain inconveniences to the mighty British. He further mentioned that the government the public, Chief Minister stated added that we must not forget the has established Fast Track Court that the government is planning supreme sacrifices and valour of to deal crimes against women to to shift the Nupee Lal observation our brave mothers. deliver justice in short period of to another venue from next year. time. Special Women Cells have The State Cabinet will discuss in Prior to the function, Chief been also opened in all the Police this regard, he added. Minister led others in laying floral Stations of the State, he added. 33 Manipur Today, January, 2020
Joint artistes of Nupee Lal Memorial Association and Nupee Lal & Khongjom War Memorial Society performing a play based on Nupee Lal during the ‘Nupee Lal Day, 2019’ observation.
tributes to the statue of brave First Nupee Lal was finally withdrawn. This rising mothers of the State. During has been entered up in the history After the British subjugation the observation, a play based on of Manipur as the First Nupee of Manipur in 1891, the infant Nupee Lal was performed by joint Lal and was indeed the potential Churachand Singh was placed artistes of Nupee Lal Memorial forerunner of a second great on the throne and the foreign Association and Nupee Lal & uprising in 1939. rulers adopted all possible means Khongjom War Memorial Society. to exercise their power over the Second Nupee Lal Why we observe Nupee Lal Day hitherto independent and heroic people of this State who could not During this long period, the Nupee Lal which is translated as yet reconcile to their fate. In 1904 British officials along with their ‘Women’s War’ in English was a the bungalow of Mr. Dunlop, the puppet king subjected the people daring agitation by the Manipuri Assistant Political Agent, was set to various oppressions like forced women against the oppressive on fire by some unknown hands. labour, a collection of taxes in economic policies of the combined For an exemplary punishment, all different forms, deprivation of feudalistic-colonial rule of the the menfolk of the Imphal town British imperialists in Manipur. were ordered to fetch teak wood Nupee Lal which is translated The Manipuri women waged two from Burma (present Myanmar) as ‘Women’s War’ in English historic wars, one in 1904 and and reconstruct the burnt down was a daring agitation by the another in 1939, against mass house. At this, the women of the exploitation and artificial famine Manipuri women against the town rose in a body and besieged triggered by indiscriminate oppressive economic policies the Residency of the Political export of rice from Manipur by of the combined feudalistic- Agent Mr Maxwell who instantly Marwari businessmen with the colonial rule of the British entered into a negotiation with support of British rulers. imperialists in Manipur. the agitating women. The order
34 Manipur Today, January, 2020 basic right and punishment on grounds of sacred or profane and discrimination of the common people against the gentry and royal family even in matters of dress. Thus there was a simmering discontent among the people which gave its vent to an outburst when there was an artificial but very acute famine in 1939 as the Non-Manipuri traders stocked up large quantities of husked rice for export outside the State. The women of Manipur again jointly rose and knocked at the door of the heads of the government, the Maharaja and the Political Agent But the struggle of the dauntless Nupee Lal not only generates for immediate redress. As the women did not end here. They economic and political reforms authorities dithered on one pretext were organised now and carried but also left a historical legacy or another the woman agitators it further for a number of months inspiring thousands of women to prevented vehicles carrying out forcing the then government to play an active role in the social, rice from the State, raided rice abolish despicable taxes collected economic and political reforms of mills and in the process, they from maintaining fishing nets Manipur. Therefore, every year on continuously suffered humiliation in the villages and homemade 12th December, Nupee Lal Day, and physical assaults culminating articles brought for sale in the is observed with due solemnity in the kicking of a woman leader market and thus putting to an end in commemoration of the heroic on the forehead by a police the atrocious practice of raiding deeds of those selfless women of officer and injuring six others. houses of poor families who could Manipur. Consequently, on 12th December not pay them. The struggle, which 1939, they stormed into the lasted for several days, subsided State Durbar Hall and caught with the outbreak of Second hold of Mr. T.A. Sharpe the then World War. The women raised President of the State Durbar who the slogan of ‘Vande Mataram’, pleaded for having a telegraphic boycotted mill-clothes which Nupee Lal not only message from the Maharaja who the masses too wholeheartedly was away by that time at the holy generates economic and supported even by keeping away place of Nabadwip. While the political reforms but also from the market for months for aggrieved women were waiting left a historical legacy which many of the leaders suffered outside the Telegraph office in the inspiring thousands of imprisonment and coming face cold evening of that day, armed women to play an active to face with the British officers personnel of the Fourth Assam role in the social, economic ultimately asked them to leave Rifles was let loose on them and Manipur and go back to their own and political reforms of many women sustained severe country for good. It was too much Manipur. bayonet injuries while the others for the authorities and at last, in were thrown into the nearby June 1940 nine prominent women muddy pond. The women, of leaders were sentenced to jail for course, came out triumphant and six months each on the charge of as a result, rice-mills were closed sedition. down, further export of rice was banned and since then it was easily available in the market.
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MANIPUR STATE WOMEN COMMISSION Save Home, Save Society Prof. (DR) Meinam Binota Chairperson, MSCW
he Manipur State for reducing drudgery and (c) Inspect or cause to be Commission occupational health hazard inspected jails, remand for Women was and for increasing their homes, women’s institutions constituted on 15th productivity; or other places of custody September, 2006 as a where women are kept as (c) Take up cases of violation statutory body at the State Level prisoners or otherwise and of the provisions of the Tin pursuance of the Manipur State take up with the authorities Constitution and other laws Commission for Women Act, concerned for remedial relating to Women in the 2006 to safeguard the interests of action, if found necessary; State with the appropriate women of the Sate. Its mandate is authorities; (d) Make periodical reports very wide covering almost all the to the Government on any aspects of women’s development. (d) Look into complaints and matter pertaining to women take suomoto notice of FUNCTION OF THE and in particular various matters relating to:- COMMISSION: difficulties under which i) Deprivation of women’s rights; women toil; Subject to the provision of Manipur State Commission for Women ii) Non-implementation of laws (e) Any other matter which may Act, 2006, the Commission shall enacted to provide protection be referred to it by the State perform all or any of the following and also to achieve the Government; functions:- objectives of equality and (f) Funding of litigation development of women; (a) Investigate and examine involving issues affecting a all matters relating to the iii) Non-compliance of policy large body of women; safeguard provided for women decisions, guidelines, (g) Participate and advice on the under the Constitution of and instructions aimed planning process of socio- India (hereinafter referred at mitigating hardship economic development of to as the Constitution) and and ensuring welfare and women. other laws and recommend providing relief to women steps to be taken by the State and to take up issues arising (2) The Commission shall, while Government for effective out of such matters with investigating any matter implementation of such appropriate authorities; referred to in sub¬clauses (a) safeguard; and (d) of sub-section (1), (a) Call for special studies or have all the powers of a Civil (b) Undertake promotional and investigation into specific Court under the Code of educational research so as problems or situation arising Civil Procedure Procedure, to suggest ways of ensuring out of discrimination and 1908, while trying a suit and, due representation of atrocities against women and in particular, in respect of the women in all spheres and identify the constraints so as following matters, namely :- identify factors responsible to recommend strategies for for impending their their removal; (a) Summoning and enforcing advancement, such as, lack of the attendance of any person (b) Evaluate the progress of the access to housing and basic from any part of India and welfare and development of services, inadequate support examining him on oath; service and technologies women in the state;
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(b) Requiring the discovery and production of any document; (c) Receiving evidence on affidavits; (d) Any other matters which may be prescribed. The Manipur State Commission for Women strives in creating women as change makers, builders of new ventures, achievers in learning and skills, daring and confident in accessing their basic rights. Within this aim, the Commission team work to :- (a) Giver priority for empowerment of women. (b) Advocacy, research, publications and legal aid. (c) Economic empowerment, good governance and transformative leadership. (d) Networking with NGOs and other State Commission for ensuring gender quality and empowerment of women (e) Interacting with media, social activists and academician to suggest the ways of ensuring due representation of women in all spheres. (f) State and local visits to evaluate the progress of development of women in various States and especially in Manipur. CASES: As per Section 10 Clause (d) of the Manipur State Commission for Women Act, 2006, the Commission take up complaint cases. So far the Manipur State Commission for Women has received 887 different complaints cases. 834 cases are disposed, one case has been transfer to NCW and one to the State Govt. For
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overall understanding, the case status of the Commission, the following are the data of the case received by the Commission of the last five years (2015-19) upto 31st August, 2019. The Commission normally issued summons to the respondent party for appearance as per complaint from the complainant. If the respondent(s) party didn’t comply with the summons\notice for more than 3 times then the Commission issue Warrant of Arrest to the respondents. Power of the Commission to issue a Warrant of arrest to enforce appearance of a person. Under Sub Section (2) of Section 10 of the Commission, while investigating any matter referred to in that Act, shall have all the powers of a Civil Court under the C.P.C. while trying a suit (emphasis supplied). Since the Commission is empowered to enforce attendance of a person, like a Civil Court under the CPC, this Commission have the power under order 16 rule 10 CPC. Order 16 Rule 10 provides the procedure to be observed where a witness fails to comply with the summons. A respondent(s) party is also a witness for his or her own case in the proceeding (Section 120 of the Indian Evidence Act, 1872). Types of complaint we are receiving:- All those complaints to be filed by a woman regarding violation of the rights guaranteed specially to women by the Constitution and the ordinary laws and the matters incidental thereto and which may relate to any of the following matters:¬> Dowry Death
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Table No. 1 : No. of the total cases ( upto 15th December,2019) Sl. Nature of the case: Year No. 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 1. Domestic violence 18 25 55 49 42 2. Bigamy 5 1 6 8 3 3. Women Property Rights & Maintenance 14 4 2 7 25 4. Desertion 2 3 7 4 4 5. Fraud 1 5 5 12 11 6. Harassment at Work Place 0 1 0 1 1 7. Police Apathy 0 1 0 2 5 8. Matrimonial Dispute 6 7 2 3 9 9. Suo Moto 0 0 2 0 2 10. Rape/Attempt to rape 0 4 2 4 0 11. Dowry 0 0 0 5 0 12. Others 0 4 4 8 16 Total 46 55 90 103 118
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> Dowry Torture > Desertion monograph of 3(three) different > Murder/Unnatural death of a > Female Foeticide/Infanticide tribes of the State. At present, the woman > Police Apathy Commission is working on “Draft > Physical and Mental Tortures > Shelter on Gender Policy and Gender towards a Woman > Matrimonial Dispute Budgeting” for recommendation > Divorce and Maintenance > Police Harassment to the State G0overnment. > Extramarital/Illicit connection >Women’s Property Rights Also the Commission has formed effecting matrimonial dispute. (Widows property, parents an Expert Committee on Health, > Rape property, Streedhan property,etc) Expert Committee on Law to > Molestation > Misc. see the loopholes in the existing > Family Disputes Expert Committees:- law, Political, Academic, Socio- > Harassment and Insecurity Economic and Cultural. The > Property Dispute As per Section 9 of the Act, this existing Advisory Committees > Sexual Harassment Commission formed an expert is led by Dr. Ch. Jamini > Sexual Harassment at Work committees of various Studies Devi (Founder and Former Place and Publications. So far, the Chairperson of the Commission) > Kidnapping and Missing Commission has brought out 10 with eminent women i.e, Dr. > Bigamy publication of the Commission K. Sobita Devi, Dr. Ninghoula > Custody and Maintenance of Journal under different titles. Zimik, Smt R.K. Pramodini Devi. Children The Commission has produced a
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For Legal, the Commission has Government from amongst to prosecute his wife’s lover. A three Legal Advisors i.e, Kh. eminent persons having similar right is not conferred on Santa Singh, Advocate - Manipur experience in social works, a wife to prosecute the women High Court, S. Nongpoknganba administration, law, or the cause of with whom her husband has Singh, Advocate - Manipur High women, of whom at least one shall committed an adultery. The Court and Th. Rajkishore Singh , be from amongst the Scheduled provision does not confer any Advocate - Manipur High Court. Tribe or Scheduled Castes and a rights on the wife to prosecute Member Secretary to be appointed her husband for adultery, it does Visit to Custodial Homes :- by the State Government from not take into account cases where As per Section 10 Clause (1) Sub amongst suitable Government the husband has sexual relations Clause (c) of the Commission’s Officer or person experienced in with unmarried women. The Act, the Commission visits administration. Section 198(2) the CPC allows a custodial homes where women husband to bring changes against ANNEXURE - II were kept as prisoners to see the the man with whom his wife has living conditions of the women Adultery Law: Latest law to committed adultery. prisoners, inmates’ security, empower the women ANNEXURE - III medical and health care facilities, Adultery no longer a crime, says recreation and pastime facilities; The Manipur State Commission for Supreme Court- a landmark and their vocational training and Women (MSCW) conduct cases judgment of Supreme Court literary activities. by examining and investigating scrapped the 150 years old the complaints received by the The Commission also visit Aged adultery law. Reading out the Commission. The Commission Home/Mental Health Clinics/ judgment, CJI Deepak Mishra normally issued summons to the Swadhar Greh to examine & clearly stated that equality is the respondent(s) after examining investigated the status of women need of the hour, time has come the complaints. The case is heard inmates & their welfare services when the husband should not be in the Commission’s premises by service providers where considered the master. Adultery situated in the D.C. Office women were kept. cannot and should not be a Complex, Imphal West, North- crime. It can be a ground for civil Evaluation of Steps Taken by the Block, Lamphelpat. offence, a ground for divorce. He Commission for the Welfare of said that the Adultery Law was After hearing statements the Women of the State: against right to equality and life. of both the parties, the The Commission has beenA five judge bench of Supreme Commission issue suggestions organizing Legal Awareness Court comprising of Chief Justice and recommendations to the Programme, Health Awareness of India Deepak Mishna, Justice concerned authorities for effective Programme, Educational Indu Malhotra and Justice AM implementation. Sometimes, the ^Awareness Programme, Khanwilkar pronounced the Commission faces some hardened Seminars, Workshops, verdict. “Adultery can be a ground situation from the respondent Consultation, Interaction for divorce. It can be a part of civil sides. If the respondent doesn’t Programmes for promoting the law involving penalties “. But why comply with the Commission’s status of women of the States. a criminal offence? summons/notices then the Commission issue Warrant of An Indian Businessman based ANNEXURE -I Arrest to the respondent directing in Italy named Joseph Shine, the concerned Police Station for Constitution of the who hails from Kerala, filed a execution. Commission:- PIL challenging IPC Section The Commission consists of a 497. He contended that the law Commission always Chairperson who is committed is discriminatory. Her petition to the cause of women, to argued that adultery law was stand for the cause be nominated by the State biased in the idea of a women Government, 3(three) Members as a property of man. Section of the women of the to be nominated by the State 497 of Indian Penal Code gives State a husband the exclusive rights
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ANNUAL ACTIVITIES REPORT IN RESPECT OF DISABILITY SECTION OF SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT 2019-20 L. Dhaneshwor Singh Child Welfare Officer Social Welfare Department he total population of schemes & programmes for Allowance/Maintenance Grant the disabled persons persons with disabilities and to persons with Disabilities with of our State as per some of the achievements of the High Support Need under Chief 2011 census report schemes are as shown below: Ministergi Shotharabasingi is 54,110 (fifty four 1. Care Giver Allowance/ Tengbang (CMST) to the eligible thousand one hundred ten) i.e. Maintenance Grant to persons beneficiaries in their bank Tabout 2.1% of the total population accounts through RTGS. Details with Disabilities with High (25,70,390). Support Need: The Socialof the existing beneficiaries are as The Social Welfare Department Welfare Department is providing shown below: is implementing various welfare the amount of Care Giver
Existing No. of Sl. No. Name of District beneficiary 1. Imphal East 972 2. Imphal West 1171 3. Thoubal 488 4. Bishnupur 458 5. Kakching 203 6. Senapati 170 7. Ukhrul 195 8. Kangpokpi 123 9. Kamjong 18 10. Chandel 103 11. Tamenglong 143 12. Churachandpur 246 13. Jiribam 11 14. Tengnoupal 13 Total 4314 Number of beneficiary selected in the last 15. 564 committee meeting held on 18th November, 2019 Grand total 4878 2. Accessible Website: Technology (NIELIT), Akampat, the audit report for 28 buildings Development of Integrated Imphal for 53 State Government have been received and cost website under Scheme for Departments. estimate for the same has been Implementation of Persons 3. Accessible India Campaign submitted to Ministry for release with Disabilities Act (SIPDA): (AIC): 50 State Government of necessary fund. Afterwards, the The work for development of building had been identified and work for retrofitting of the said integrated website is being access audit has been conducted buildings shall be taken up. taken up by National Institute by the agency assigned by the 4. State Advisory Board on of Electronics & Information Ministry. Out of this 50 buildings, Disability: The 1st Meeting of the
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State Advisory Board on Disability Minister Social Welfare, Manipur. Empowerment, Government of was held on 26th October, 2019 5. UDID Project for India: UDID Project has been at the Conference Hall of Old online issuance of Disability launched in the entire districts Secretariat, Government of Certificates and Unique ID for of the State during 2019 in the Manipur under the Chairmanship Persons with Disabilities under respective CMO Offices. The of Smt. Nemcha Kipgen, Hon’ble the Ministry of Social Justice and details are as shown below:
Sl. No. Name of district Venue Status & date if launched 1. Imphal West CMO Office Launched on 11/7/2019 2. Imphal East CMO Office Launched on 22/7/2019 3. Thoubal CMO Office Launched on 23/7/2019 4. Churachandpur CMO Office Launched on 25/7/2019 5. Bishnupur CMO Office Launched on 26/7/2019 6. Kangpokpi CMO Office Launched on 27/7/2019 7. Senapati CMO Office Launched on 29/7/2019 8. Tamenglong CMO Office Launched on 30/7/2019 9. Ukhrul CMO Office Launched on 31/7/2019 10. Kamjong CMO Office Launched on 31/7/2019 11. Kakching CMO Office Launched on 05/8/2019 12. Chandel CMO Office Launched on 07/8/2019 13. Tengnoupal CMO Office Launched on 26/8/2019 14. Pherzawl CMO Office Launched on 22/8/2019 15. Noney CMO Office Launched from 14-18 Oct. 2019 16. Jiribam ICD School Launched on 27/11/2019
6. Implementation of conducting since 25th September, State. Around 3000 numbers of Assistance to Disabled Persons 2019 for the year 2019-20 in beneficiaries have been identified for purchase/fitting of Aids collaboration with ALIMCO and in the camps and the necessary and Appliances (ADIP) and will continue to cover the entire appropriate aids and appliances Rastriya Vayoshree Yojna (RVY) districts of the State to provide shall be distributed soon. scheme: The assessment camps aids and appliances to disabled The details of the camps held in for ADIP and RVY has been persons and senior citizens of the the State are as shown below:
Sl. No. Date of camp Venue of camp District 1. 25/09/2019 YVO, Wangkhei Imphal East 2. 26/09/2019 Yairipok Lai Manai Imphal East 3. 27/09/2019 Luwangsangbam Imphal East 4. 28/09/2019 Lamlai Imphal East 5. 01/10/2019 Bal Bhavan (Sumang lila sanglen) Imphal East 6. 02/10/2019 Arapti Imphal East 7. 03/10/2019 Lamsang Imphal West 8. 06/10/2019 Pukhao Imphal East 9. 07/10/2019 Top Dusara Imphal East 10. 08/10/2019 Singjamei Kshetri leikai, Mongkhang lambi Imphal East 11. 10/10/2019 Samurou Imphal West
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12. 11/10/2019 Takhel Imphal East 13. 12/10/2019 Keishamthong Imphal West 14. 14/10/2019 Noney Hqs. Noney 15. 15/10/2019 Noney Hqs. Noney 16. 16/10/2019 Haochong Noney 17. 17/10/2019 Nungba District Hospital Noney 18. 18/10/2019 Nungba District Hospital Noney 19. 21/10/2019 Salungpham Kangthokchao Thoubal 20. 22/10/2019 Khurkhul Makha Leikai Imphal West 21. 23/10/2019 Lainingthou Muriba Community Hall Imphal East 22. 24/10/2019 Janmasthan, Yaiskul Imphal West 23. 25/10/2019 Uyumpok Maning Leikai Community Hall Imphal East 24. 21/11/2019 Andro Imphal East 25. 23/11/2019 Langdum Imphal East 26. 25/11/2019 Kyamgei Imphal East 27. 26/11/2019 Heingang Imphal East 28. 27/11/2019 Awang Potsangbam Imphal East 29. 28/11/2019 Khundrakpam Imphal East 30. 29/11/2019 Lainingthou Awangba, Khurai Imphal East 31. 30/11/2019 Kakwa Imphal East 32. 01/12/2019 Directorate, Social Welfare Complex Imphal East 33. 04/12/2019 Nongmeibung Nambam Chuthek Bazar Imphal East 34. 5/12/2019 Lairikyengbam Leikai Hockey Union Club Imphal East 35. 6/12/2019 SYUC, Kongba Ucheckon Khunou Imphal East 36. 7/12/2019 Lai Khutlembi Mandop, Khurai Imphal East
7. State Scheme for underway and when the same is Mental Development Home, providing aids and Appliances: constituted the State Policy shall Mongshangei, Imphal and Mission State Government has no specific be drafted soon. Blind School, Heikakpokpi, scheme for providing aids and 9. Composite Regional Chandel (now Tengnoupal) into appliances to disabled persons; Centre (CRC): The Composite Government aided special school but, the Department is taking up Regional Centre (CRC) shall and the Grant-in-aid have been steps to provide wheel chairs to be established in the State and provided. eligible persons with disabilities the State Government is ready 11. Appointment of staff on and the process for the same is to provide temporary building Humanity Ground: Recently 2 underway. during the financial year 2019-20. (two) disabled persons have been 8. State Policy on 10. The State Cabinet in appointed to this Department on Disability: The constitution of its meeting held on 28th March, humanity ground and the details working Committee for formation 2018 had approved to convert of the them are as shown below: of State Policy on Disability is two Special School viz. B.B. Paul Sl. No. Name Address Category of disable 1. Khangembam Bijaya Devi D/o. Kh. Athokpam Awang Leikai, Visually Impaired Ibohal Singh Thoubal district 2. Lhingsohoi Mangte, D/o. Songjahao Khongnangpokpi Village, Visually Impaired Mangte Kangpokpi district
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12. The brief story of the personnel has been appointed to It is very fortunate that one of her two disabled persons are: the Social Welfare Department on daughter viz. Lhingsohoi Mangte (i) Khangembam Bijaya compassionate ground. is a blind girl passing X in 1st Devi: Miss Khangembam Bijaya (ii) Lhingsohoi Mangte: On Division from Government Ideal Devi from Athokpam Awang 10th April, 2018 (Hill Leaders’ Blind School, Takyel in 2012 and Leikai, Thoubal district, D/o. Kh. Day) Songjahao Mangte had XII (Arts) from Model Higher Ibohal Singh and eldest sister of submitted an application Secondary School, Takyel in (L) Khangembam Santosh Singh to Hon’ble Chief Minister, 2014. Recently, the State Cabinet who was killed on 24th April, Manipur requesting for a job on has approved to appoint her on 2017 at Ukhongsang Mayai Leikai humanitarian ground since she is humanity ground in the Social due to accidental firing by Police a mother of four disabled children. Welfare Department.
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SOME PRECAUTIONS ON SECURITY BEST PRACTICES FOR GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS / OFFICERS Seema Sanjenbam APO (Admn)
inistry of Home iii ) Computers should be into your computer. Malware Affairs, Cyber protected from virus/worms using can spread through infected USB & Information an Antivirus software permitted drives, external hard drives, and Security (CIS) for use by your organization. even smartphones. Division has iv) Make sure your operating vii) Do not use file-sharing prepared some basic minimum system, application and software softwares as file-sharing opens Mprecautions on Security best patches including anti-virus your computer to the risk of practices. software are up to date; and auto- malicious files and attacks. 1.General Computer Usage updates are turned on in your viii) Avoid entering sensitive computer. i) All classified work should information onto a public be strictly carried out only in a v) Always lock your computer computer like cybercafe, library standalone computer which is not before leaving the workplace to computers etc., connected to the internet. prevent unauthorized access. ix) Remove files or data you A user can lock computer by ii ) Create strong passwords for no longer need to prevent pressing, ctrl +alt+del “and login by using a combination unauthorized access to such data. choosing, lock this computer” or of letters, numbers, and special Merely deleting sensitive material “window button+ L”. characters with a minimum of 10 is not sufficient, as it does not characters. vi) Be careful of what you plug remove the data from your
46 Manipur Today, January, 2020 system. File shredder software and doing so may make you liable periodically at least once every should be used to delete sensitive for penal action, in case of data three months. files on computers. leakage. iii) Don’t reuse old passwords. 2.General Internet Browsing vii) When on tour, avoid using iv)Passwords should not be stored services that require location i) Always use an updated in readable form in computers, information, unless it is necessary web browser for browsing. If notebook, notice board or for discharge of office duties. you run a web browser that in any other location where is out of date, it may contain viii) While browsing, some pop- unauthorized persons might security vulnerabilities and ups may appear with the option discover or use them. you risk having your computer of close button.These may be fake v)Treat passwords as sensitive compromised. Depending and may actually try to install information and do not share it on the security exploit, your spyware when you click on it. with anyone. personal information (including Beware of such pop-ups and avoid emails, banking details, online clicking on it. vi) Always use different passwords transactions, photos, and other for every log-in accounts you ix) Popup blocker option should sensitive information) could be have. Using the same password be kept turned ON in the browser stolen or destroyed. for more than one account risks and may be selectively allowed for multiple exposures if one site you ii) Do not store/ share any sensitive trusted sites if required. Doing so use is hacked. information on any device that is will help prevents any nuisance connected to the Internet. web ads or malware embedded in vii) If your work requires you ads from appearing on the screen. to communicate passwords, iii) The “Save password” option such as while sending password prompted by the browser should x) Remember that things on the for an encrypted file sent as an not be selected if a window appears internet are rarely free. “Free” attachment through email it after entering information on the Screensavers etc., often contain must be communicated through login screen, asking you to do so. malware.So be aware of such a different channel such as over a Don’t save account information, online free offers. phone call or SMS. such as passwords or credit card xi) Avoid using public computers information in web browsers, viii) Always decline the use of the and public Wi-Fi connections especially on those PCs which are “Remember Password” feature to access and carry out any shared with other users. wherever it is prompted by the financial or sensitive transactions. applications. iv) Look for HTTPS sign in the Accessing government email browser address bar. The “s” in on such computers has a risk of 4.Removable Information “https” stands for secure, meaning causing information breach. Storage Media that the website is employing SSL xii) If your job requires you encryption. Check for an “https:” i) Autorun/ Autoplay feature to access certain information with a green padlock icon in your must be disabled for all removable systems securely, it is advisable browser address bar to verify that media. to use security controls such as a site is secure. MPLS link, VPN over internet, ii) The classified data should be v) Make a habit of clearing history etc., for such access. encrypted before copying into from the browser after each the removable storage media 3. Password Management logout session. Following are the designated to store classified information. settings in various browsers to i). Create a strong password with automatically clear the history on a minimum length of ideally 10 iii) Classified information should each browser session ends: characters and comprising of a be stored only on organization mix of alphabets, numbers, and vi) No classified information of allocated removable storage characters. government can be stored on media for work purposes. private cloud services (Google ii) All passwords (e.g., email, iv) The computers should be Drive, Dropbox, iCloud, etc.,) computer, etc.) should be changed enabled with the “Show hidden
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file and folders” option to view deploy appropriate controls created, accessed, stored and hidden malicious files in USB to restrict use of personal processed by or on behalf of the storage devices. email addresses for any official Government of India, unless communications. authorized to do so, shall not: v) It is advisable to scan all removable media with anti-virus iii) Avoid downloading email a. Access social media on any software before use. attachments or clicking on official device (computer, mobile suspicious links received in emails etc.). vi) Removable media like USB’s, from unknown or untrusted CDs, etc., must not be left b. Disclose official information on sources. unattended. social media or social networking iv) Classified information be not portals or applications. vii) Technical controls may be communicated via emails. In the implemented to restrict use of case of emergent requirements to portable storage media drives do so, the approval of competent outside of the Government authority should be obtained. network. v) Avoid accessing official email viii) Removable media should accounts from public Wi-Fi not be taken out of office unless connections. permitted by the competent authority in your office. vi) Autosave of password for email Passwords should not be accounts should not be enabled. stored in readable form ix) To minimize physical risk, loss, theft or electrical corruption, vii) Logout from mail accounts in computers, notebook, all storage media must be stored after your work is done. notice board or in any in an appropriately secure and viii) Users should type the other location where safe environment. complete URL in the browser unauthorized persons x) In case of damage or instead of clicking links received might discover or use malfunction of the device, the in an email. same should be returned to the them. ix) Do not open / forward / reply designated authority in your to any suspicious e-mails. office for repair/replacement. Never handover such devices to x) Be cautious about tiny or outsiders or other vendors for shortened URL’s (appears like repair as it might have classified http://tiny.cc/ba1j5y) and don’t information. click on it as it may take you to a Always lock your malware-infected website. xi) If the USB device is no longer computer before leaving a functional requirement after xi) Do not open attachment the workplace to prevent issuance, then the same should be having an extension such as EXE, unauthorized access. A returned to the issuing authority. DLL, VBS, SHS, PIF, SCR. Typical user can lock computer example, txt.exe, .doc.exe xii). The contents of removable by pressing, ctrl +alt+del media must be removed/erased 6. Use of Social Media by “and choosing, lock this after the official purpose has been Government Officers/Officials: served. computer” or “window All personnel including button+ L”. 5.Email Communication employees, contractual staff, consultants, partners, third party i) Use only Government provided staff, etc., who manage, operate an email address for official or support information systems, communications (e.g. nicemail). facilities, communication ii) System administrators may networks; and information
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WINNINGMSPDCL ACCOLADES IN THE POWER SECTOR Wangkheimayum Bhupendra Singh Information Assistant
anipur Corporation also received the Summit held at Hotel Taj Mahal, State Power Overall Winner: Innovation with New Delhi on 6-7 November Distribution Impact Award – North Eastern 2019. MSPDCL Managing Corporation States, at the same event. Director L. Priyokumar Singh and Limited Executive Director (Technical) What better way for the young (MSPDCL), distribution H. Shantikumar Singh jointly corporation to end a year! Msection of the Manipur State received the awards from Power Corporation Limited, The Awards were presented by the Secretary (Ministry of Power, received the Best Performance Indian Chamber of Commerce New, and Renewable Energy) Shri Improvement Award at the recent and supported by Ministry of SC Garg. 7th Innovation with Impact Power, Government of India Awards for Discoms 2019. The during the 13th India Energy
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The Awards were conferred to them to work harder to bring loss has come down to 22.55% in State power corporations based a more dynamic change in the FY 2018-19 from 44.20% in FY on their performances, and, are State’s power sector. 2015-16. The billing efficiency an acknowledgment of the major (B.E) during 2018-19 is 85.32% The corporation has taken up improvement in the power sector and Collection Efficiency is certain measures like conversion of the State. In recent years, the 90.78% leading to AT&C loss of of Aerial Bunch Cable in place of State has witnessed improvement 22.55% naked LT wire (preventing illegal in the daily average power supply. hooking of the power supply), Revenue Collection: Today, the corporation, under installation of Pre-paid meters, The corporation has also Minister (Power) Shri Thongam online recharge of meters/power witnessed a quantum jump in Biswajit Singh, has initiated consumptions and regular raids revenue collection from Rs. 175 several innovative ways to conducted by officials for power cr in FY 2015-16 to Rs. 243 cr in improve its performance. thefts. FY 2018-19. ACS (Average Cost of Supply) – ARR (Average Revenue Realised) Gap: Over the years, ACS (Average Cost of Supply) – ARR (Average Revenue Realised) Gap has been reduced from Rs. 3.24/unit in FY 2015-16 to Rs. 0.25/unit in FY 2018-19. Power Demand: Peak Demand has increased from 170 MW in FY 2016-17 to 195 MW in FY 2017-18 and Energy demand has increased from 760 Shri Biswajit had also personally All these have resulted in MU in FY 2016-17 to 827 MU in met with Hon’ble Union Minister increasing average power supply FY 2017-18. of State for Power and New & to 24 hours daily from 8-12 Renewable Energy (I/C) Shri RK hours per day some five years Distribution of LEDs under Singh and discussed provision of ago. The corporation has also UJALA: probable grants for procurement witnessed a quantum leap in These are not the only of remaining prepaid meters, billing and collection efficiency achievements of the corporation. renovation, modernisation, due to implementation of pre- Regarding distribution of LED augmentation of 33 KV sub- paid meters, which has resulted bulbs under the UJALA scheme, stations, funding for strengthening in increase in revenue collection the State has achieved 2.46 Lakh of old infrastructures among from Rs. 175 cr in FY 2015-16 to LED distributions in FY 2018- other things. Rs. 243 cr in FY 2018-19. 19, which is 146% more than the Shri Biswajit said it is indeed a AT&C (Aggregated targeted figure. proud moment for the State that Transmission and Commercial) Use of Prepaid Metering to MSPDCL has been conferred with loss reduction: reduce AT&C: the two awards at the national According to officials, there has level. He congratulated the The State has 85,028 prepaid been a massive reduction in officials and staff including both consumers during FY 2014-15 AT&C (Aggregated Transmission technical and non-technical of (out of 2.58 lakh consumers), this and Commercial) loss. The AT&C the corporation and encouraged has been increased to 3.27 Lakh
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prepaid meter consumers out of MSPDCL is using a “mobile app” world in the development race, 4.95 total consumers in FY 2018- billing system to bill the post- there is no denying that reliable 19. paid consumers in the hilly areas. electricity supply is correlated This Mobile billing app which is with economic development. Electricity Access to developed “in house” is the first in Unconnected Households: the country. MSPDCL has also achieved Installation of Prepaid Meter electrification of 1.75 lakh in hilly areas will also be households under different implemented soon to save energy schemes namely Deendayal and increase more transparency Upadhyaya Gram Jyoti Yojana between the consumers and the (DDUGJY) and SAUBHAGYA in company. FY 2018-19. MSPDCL has also appealed to All 2582 census villages in the all consumers to use electricity State have been electrified by judiciously and to avoid April 2018 with provision of unnecessary use of electricity. power supply to Leisang Village The company has further urged in Kangpokpi District through all consumers not to forget grid. clearing their electricity bills It is indeed a proud Serving of bills and revenue in time, stating that irregular/ moment for the State collection for the 1.75 Lakh new non-payment of bills is another that MSPDCL has been post-paid consumers under the challenge for MSPDCL. above-stated schemes (Deendayal conferred with the two Electricity plays such an important Upadhyaya Gram Jyoti Yojana awards at the national role in today’s modern world that (DDUGJY) and SAUBHAGYA) we cannot think of a world without level. is a new challenge due to shortage it. Today, as we join the rest of the of manpower at present. However, Shri Th.Biswajit 51 Manipur Today, January, 2020
MANIPUR STATE RURAL LIVELIHOODS MISSION Yumnam Robita State Mission Director, MSRLM
AY NRLM: Progress in Key areas of presently federated SHGs into 126 In Manipur, implementation till date Village Level Federation (VLF), the program Building of Institutions which comprises of more than 10 implementation to 20 SHGs in one VLF. One of the key components of Manipur State which the Mission has adopted Rural Livelihoods Mission Capacity Building of the is to organize all poor household D(MSRLM) started only in the year Community Institutions (women) into institutions of the 2015, in the four blocks namely, poor that provide them with To have strong and vibrant Sawombung and Keirao Block of voice, space and resources. The institutions of the poor at various Imphal East District and Machi women are mobilizes into Self levels, adequate training and and Tengnoupal Block of Chandel Help Groups (SHGs) and then capacity building programmes District ( now Tengnoupal federated at different higher are conducted at different periods District) respectively. The four levels. (Cluster, Block, District). of the intervention. The Mission blocks are implemented as MSRLM has presently mobilized is focused on providing quality Resource Blocks where in all the more than 21988 women into capacity support to the women key strategies will be implemented forming 1914 Self Help Groups after mobilizing into SHGs. The and thereafter replicated in the (SHGs) in the four mentioned State team had been continuously other blocks of the State. Resource Blocks. We have providing series of training to the
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SHG women on Book of Accounts, Membership, VO Concept Training, Financial Literacy and Microcredit Planning etc. at the cluster and village. Financial Inclusion MSRLM has taken up continuous effort in building good relationship with the Banks. Bankers’ sensitization through various means such as workshop, Books of Accounts Training of SHG Members in Chandel District seminar, meeting, and exposure trips are conducted regularly. basis of prioritization done by quality of life Recently, an exposure program of the SHG members. This fund Progress so far the Bankers from the four blocks is routed through Village Level was organized in Assam. Federation (VLF) at the rate of 1% > The Mission has organized to be paid by the SHGs and at the all poor household (women) With the collaboration of Banks rate of 2% by its members. This into institutions of the poor that various Financial Literacy camp fund has been utilized to initiate provide them with voice, space and Individual Account openings and start with a livelihood activity and resources. are conducted in each block. by each members. Recently , an MOU was signed > The women are mobilizes into with IDFC Bank and under which Convergence i. PRI - CBO Self Help Groups (SHGs) and the Bank Sakhis( Community Convergence then federated at different higher Cadre which caters bank services) levels. (Cluster, Block, District). MSRLM has entered into an MOU were provided with Mini ATM with Kudumbashree, National machine through which the >182 GPs and 359 villages covered Resource Organisation(NRO) community can do withdrawals, in the till date. based in Kerala for PRI -CBO deposit of cash in their account at Convergence through which > MSRLM has presently mobilized their door steps. It is a milestone the rural poor women will be more than 21988 women in terms of getting all transactions capacitated by creating awareness into forming 1914 happeningwhile staying at home. of their rights and entitlements Self Help Groups (SHGs) in the Alongside imparting training, along hands with the PRI. It is four Resource Blocks. the SHG women are provided presently being taken up in two Revolving Funds (Rs.15000 blocks, Machi and Keirao Bitra as > 226.99(lakhs) of savings per SHG) directly to their SHG a pilot. mobilized by SHGs bank account after due process ii. Gender and FNHW > Presently federated of grading has been completed. SHGs into 126 Village As of now, the State Mission has Under the directives and Level Federation (VLF), which provided Revolving Fund to 559 guidance of National Mission comprises of more than 10 to 20 SHGs amounting to Rs. 83.85 lacs. Management Unit, Gender, Food, SHGs in one VLF. Nutrition, Health and WASH Livelihoods: (FNHWASH) a new intervention > A Total amount of Rs.595.35 After 2nd grading for SHGs under MSRLM has been started. Lakhs disbused to 492 SHGs completed and MCP conducted All levels of Staff of MSRLM have received as CIF (Community for each members of SHGs, been given Training of Trainers Investment fund). Community Investment Fund of (TOT) to further orient the > Adequate training programmes Rs. 1.10 lakh to each SHGs has rural poor women to come out at various levels conducted been provided to those SHGs of poverty through a behavioral to create a strong and vibrant which have qualified and on the change with a dignified and better institution of the poor.
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> This fund has been utilized to initiate and start with a livelihood activity by each members. > MSRLM has entered into an MOU with Kudumbashree, National Resource Organisation(NRO) based in Kerala for Panchayati Raj Institutions(PRI) - Community based Organisation (CBO) Convergence 1. Through which the rural poor women will be capacitated by Awareness Programme in Keirao Block creating awareness of their rights and entitlements along hands > 279 Community Cadres created and were provided with Mini with the PRI. and trained to impart further ATM machine trainings to the community. 2. It is presently being taken up > The community can now do in two blocks, Machi and Keirao > With the help of the robust withdrawals, deposit of cash in Bitra as a pilot. National MIS, and the rolling out their account at their door steps. of the Transaction based SHG It is a milestone in terms of getting > Under the directives and digital accounting system, all Self all transactions happening while guidance of National Mission Help Group and Village Level staying at home. Management Unit, Gender, Food, Federation are being tracked Nutrition, Health and WASH > 100 Livelihood Community and monitored through the help (FNHWASH) a new intervention Resource Persons being trained to of the tablet cadres identified under MSRLM has been started. start invention in the farm sector. and trained from within the > All levels of Staff of MSRLM community > Preparation of baseline have been given Training of survey for “Start Up Village > Regular field visits are being Trainers (ToT) to further orient Entrepreneurship Programme” conducted both at the State and the rural poor women to come out started. block level by the concerned of poverty through a behavioral thematic staff. > After 2nd grading of SHGs and change with a dignified and better Micro Credit Plan conducted quality of life. > MSRLM has taken up of each members, Community continuous effort in building Investment Fund of Rs. 1.10 lakh good relationship with the Banks. per SHGs has been disbursed Bankers’ sensitization through through Village Level federation various means such as workshop, on the basis of grading done and seminar, meeting, and exposure through prioritization. trips are conducted regularly. > With the collaboration of Banks 1. DEEN DAYAL UPADHYAY GRAMEEN KAUSHAL YOJNA various Financial Literacy camp TOTAL TARGETS APPROVED BY MORD 10518 and Individual Account openings TOTAL TARGETS SANCTIONED TO 17 PIAS 10202 are conducted in each block. REMAINING TARGETS TO BE SANCTION FOR 316 > 305 SHG received Bank loans PWD > Recently , an MOU was signed TRAINING UNDERGOING 1358 with IDFC Bank and under which TRAINING COMPLETED 977 the Bank Sakhis( Community 740 TOTAL PLACED CANDDIATES Cadre will cater bank services) (75%)
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MANIPUR OBSERVES CONSTITUTION DAY-2019
onstitution Day, state, every citizen has the Khemchand Singh in his the day to mark responsibility to uphold the basic presidential speech said all the adoption of the principles which are enshrined systems in the world have a Indian Constitution in the Constitution. We all have guiding principle through by the then to enjoy the fundamental rights which their nature of duties has Constituent Assembly in 1949, given by the Constitution and been established. Like this, our Cwas observed on 26th November also ensure that fundamental Constitution is the guiding force 2019. The State Level Observation duties should also be followed so of which all aspects of democratic was held at the Banquet Hall of that we will be able to contribute setup and nature of duties have 1st Battalion Manipur Rifles in to society. been established in the country. Imphal. Deputy Chief Minister, As responsible citizens, we all Observing that the Preamble Shri Yumnam Joykumar Singh have to abide by the Constitution itself defines the basic structure took the pledge to solemnly affirm in every sphere of our lives, he of the Constitution, Deputy Chief the preamble of the Constitution added. Minister said, the Constitution of of India. He also released the India which came into force on TA & Hills Minister Shri N. diglot (English-Manipuri) edition 26th January 1950 gives equality Kayisii, Agriculture Minister Shri of the Constitution of India. of status and opportunity to all V. Hangkhanlian, DGP, Addl. Addressing the gathering, Deputy citizens of our country. CSs, Commissioners, and officials Chief Minister Shri Yumnam participated among others in the Speaker of Manipur Legislative Joykumar Singh said for a welfare observation. Assembly Shri Yumnam
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The annual tourism festival came to an end with a glittering function held at BOAT on 2nd December 2019 10TH MANIPUR SANGAI FESTIVAL 24th November-2nd December 2019 Maringmei Gaijinmelu Translator, Kabui
anipur Sangai on popular demand from the in Imphal West, Keibul Lamjao Festival, one public. National Park in Bishnupur, and of the State’s Mao in Senapati Districts. The 10th edition of the Sangai annual mega Festival was conducted in a The festival is named after the cultural- peaceful manner with thousands state animal, Sangai—the unique, tourism festival, was held from of locals, domestic and foreign shy and gentle brow-antlered deer M24th November-2nd December tourists thronging the venues found only in Manipur’s floating 2019. The Festival which started at different locations in Hapta Keibul Lamjao National Park, at on 24th November 2019 and Kangjeibung and Bhagyachandra Loktak Lake, Bishnupur. scheduled to conclude on 30th Open Air Theatre (BOAT) in November 2019 was extended for Speaking at the closing ceremony Imphal East, Mapal Kangjeibung two days till 2nd December 2019 as Chief Guest at BOAT, Governor and Lamboikhongnangkhong
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communities. Festival is for the It may be mentioned that every people and it gives an avenue to year the State celebrates the the people to showcase the state “Manipur Sangai Festival” from to the world, he added. 21st to 30th November. The annual calendar feature which Every edition of the festival was started in 2010 to popularize showcases the tourism potential ‘Sangai’, the rare species of deer of the state in the field of endemic to Manipur has over the arts and culture, handloom, years grown into a big platform handicrafts, cuisine, music, for the state to showcase its rich dance, and indigenous sports, tradition and culture to the world. etc. Performances including The State Festival, organised by the famous classical dance of the Government of Manipur Manipur, Raas Lila, and various and spearheaded by the Tourism other folk dance performances Department, is today labelled as like the Kabui dance, Lai Haraoba the biggest festival of the state and dance were the major highlights helps to promote Manipur as a of the festival. world-class tourism destination.
Chief Minister Shri N. Biren Singh flagged off Manipur Sangai Run of Manipur Dr. Najma Heptulla organised as part of Manipur Sangai Festival at Khuman Lampak said that the festival is an attempt Sports Complex on 24th November 2019 to show-case the State’s best traditions and culture besides promoting our handloom and handicraft products. The Festival is proof that the Government is consistent in its effort towards establishing Manipur Tourism as a brand in the global tourism map, she added. Chief Minister Shri N. Biren Singh, while delivering his presidential speech at the closing ceremony spoke about the role of Manipur Sangai Festival in IPR Minister Shri Thongam Biswajit Singh, YAS Minister Shri Letpao Haokip, bringing love and understanding, Tourism Corporation of Manipur Limited Chairman Dr. Sapam Ranjan and feeling of oneness among different MLA Shri Samuel Jendai Kamei graced the cultural evening on Day 3
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2ND STATE LEVEL BARAK FESTIVAL 12th-14th December 2019
he 2nd State Level biggest river of Manipur, took the Chief Minister said that the Barak Festival, 2019 place at Mini Stadium, Senapati State Government would make held under the District headquarters from 12- all-out efforts to internationalize theme, ‘‘Confluence 14th December 2019. the festival so that more visitors of Cultures’, featuring and tourists can be attracted from The State Level Barak Festival was cultural shows, beauty contest, different parts of the country and formally inaugurated by Manipur Tdance, and song competition the world. He also suggested the Chief Minister N. Biren Singh enthralled the people of Manipur committee to organize the festival on 13th December. Speaking on over three days. The festival to near the origin of Barak River the occasion as the chief guest, promote and conserve Barak, the or at any suitable site near the
58 Manipur Today, January, 2020 river from next year by adding It was a district-level festival, in adventure items like river rafting the beginning, however, Chief etc. Minister Shri N. Biren Singh declared it as a State Level festival Miss Barak Contest, Barak Voice in 2017. The first State-level Barak Hunt, traditional wrestling, Festival was held last year under traditional car race, musical the theme, ‘Sustaining Peace and nights and presentation of H a r m o n y ’. cultural dance and music were the main highlights of this year’s One of the major rivers of festival which concluded on 14th India, the Barak River is locally December with Deputy Chief known as Avourei. Part of the Minister Shri Y. Joykumar as the Surma-Meghna River System chief guest. in Bangladesh, the Barak River originates from the hills of Liyai The festival, which takes its Khullen in Manipur’s Senapati name from Barak River, is district and flows down through jointly organized by the Barak Senapati and Tamenglong Festival Central Organizing districts before crossing over Committee and the State Tourism into Assam’s Cachar district and Department. The idea of Barak then into the Bay of Bengal via Festival, as a collective celebration Bangladesh. The river provides for the tribes of Senapati District livelihood to five tribes – Mao, comprising Mao, Maram, Maram, Poumai, Thangal and Poumai, Thangal, and Zeliang, Zeliangrong in Senapati district was conceived by Naga People’s alone. Organization (NPO), and it was first celebrated in the year 2013.
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Exploring Nature’s Wonder MANIPUR CHERRY BLOSSOM CUM FLOWER FESTIVAL, MAO GATE November 24th - 26th, 2019 THe Exquisiteness of the Hills in Sangai Festival, 2019 Ibomacha Oinam Assistant Video-cameraman
ao is beautiful Highway 39, which is considered There is an annual celebration hill town to be the lifeline of Manipur. The of the cherry flower that can be in Senapati main town is commonly referred witnessed in the early November district of as Mao-Gate and it is famous for with the arrival of winter. The Manipur, its natural vegetations that range festival entitled “Cherry Blossom India. The town is located at a from indigenous fruits to organic Festival cum Flower Festival” Mdistance of 45 kilometers from vegetables. last for three days. This year the Senapati along the National festival was celebrated from 24th
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man wearing the Mao traditional blooms awash cherry blossom attire. As a part of the formal trees and the whiff of barbeque function the field was flooded fills the air. The stalls that were with pretty faces of the girls displayed in the festival were that paraded with their flower quite pleasant for the visitors headgear to symbolize the cherry like us. The exotic collection of blossoms. The most interesting succulents was the eye-catcher of event was the youths participating the festival besides the variety of in the indigenous games and fruits and vegetables. The aroma sports, the Lerei Kaphre (war of the traditional cuisines still game). For entertainment there lingers in my mind. Such festival was music concert by various not only celebrates the beauty of musician of the state. the nature but also warms the heart of the participants. My experience of the festival was splendid, the pretty faces in pink
Flower Parade
to 26th November as a part of the Sangai Festival, 2019. The inaugural ribbon was cut by the Hon’ble Deputy Chief Minister, Manipur who was the Chief Guest of the event. He was joined by Shri Losii Dikho, Minister, PHED, Shri N. Kayisii, Minister, Tribal Affairs & Hills and Shri Dr. Lorho Pfoze, MP, Outer Manipur as President of the Function, Guest of Honour and Chief Host respectively. The first day of the event was marked by the blowing of the traditional trumpets by a village Lerei Kaphre (war game)
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16TH STATE LEVEL ORANGE FESTIVAL 16th-18th December 2019
he 16th State Level earmarked in the State Budget Regarding developmental projects Orange Festival for festivals related to fruits and in Tamenglong District, the Chief cum Centenary would increase the consolation Minister said that projects like Celebration of incentive prizes for participating the widening of Khongshang- Tamenglong District orange growers of Orange Festival Tamenglong road, construction Administration was held under from Rs. 10,000 to Rs. 20,000 from of FCI Godown and Water Tthe theme “Orange for peace, next year. Stating that horticulture Supply Scheme at Duithanglong health, beauty, and prosperity” products of the State have a unique are going on in full swing. Apart at Public Ground, Tamenglong taste, Shri N. Biren Singh said from it, he added, the State District Headquarters from 16th- that Tamenglong Orange would Government would upgrade 18th December 2019. receive Geographical Indication the present women’s market by (GI) Tagging Certificate very soon. allocating more funds. The Chief The three-day extravaganza was Manipur has immense potential Minister also assured to revamp inaugurated by Chief Minister in tourism and horticulture the inter-village roads located of Manipur N. Biren Singh on sectors, the Chief Minister said around Tamenglong District 16th December. Speaking at and further added that the State headquarters soon. the occasion as the chief guest, should focus on these sectors to the chief minister announced Choir presentation performed by bring economic development. that separate funds would be around 1000 members selected
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from 28 different Churches of the Orange Queen Contest, district was the special attraction Orange Eating Competition, of the day among different Tamenglong’s Got Talent, Rock mesmerizing cultural items Concert and Choir Competition presented on the opening day. were the major highlights of this year’s State Level Orange Altogether 370 orange growers Festival which concluded on 18th participated and showcased their December with Lok Sabha MP products during the Festival. Rs. 2 (Outer) Dr. Lorho Pfoze as the lakhs, Rs. 1 lakh and Rs. 75,000/- chief guest. were awarded to first, second and third prize winners of the orange The festival is organized by District competition. Moreover, Rs. Administration, Tamenglong 10,000 each were also given to all under the sponsorship of the the participating orange growers. North Eastern Council and Government of Manipur.
63 Manipur Today, January, 2020
8TH INTERNATIONAL TOURISM MART 23th-25th November 2019
he Ministry that the International Tourism of the region in the domestic and of Tourism, Mart must continue to generate international markets. Government of India, tangible outcomes commensurate The 8th International Tourism in association with with its objective of highlighting Mart is an annual event organised the North Eastern the tourism potential of the North in the North-Eastern region with States organised the “International East Region in the domestic the objective of highlighting the TTourism Mart” (ITM) from 23-25 and international markets. He tourism potential of the region November 2019. The event was also expressed hope that there in the domestic and international inaugurated by Chief Minister would be even greater interaction markets. It brings together the Shri N. Biren in the presence of between buyers, sellers, media tourism business fraternity Shri Prahlad Singh Patel, Union delegates, Government agencies, and entrepreneurs from the Minister of State (Independent and other stakeholders, than in eight North Eastern States. The Charge) for Tourism & Culture previous editions. event has been planned and and other dignitaries from Speaking at the occasion, Shri scheduled to facilitate interaction Central Ministries and the North Prahlad Singh Patel stated between buyers, sellers, media, Eastern States at Hotel Imphal on that a peaceful environment Government agencies, and other 23rd November 2019. is necessary for the growth of stakeholders. The North East Speaking at the occasion as the tourism and overall development Region of India comprising the chief guest, Shri N. Biren Singh of the region. The Minister said states of Arunachal Pradesh, said that return of peace has that the Centre had sanctioned Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, contributed to increased inflow Rs. 1200 crore for development of Mizoram, Nagaland, Tripura, and of tourists into the State. He different tourism infrastructures Sikkim, is endowed with diverse informed that 1,66,032 domestic in the past five years for the eight tourist attractions and products. tourist arrivals were recorded last North Eastern States under the The varied topography of the year, which was a 14% increase Swadesh Darshan Scheme. region, its flora, and fauna, the over 2016. During the same ethnic communities with their The Tourism Mart was organised period, foreign tourist arrivals rich heritage of ancient traditions by the Ministry of Tourism, saw a leap of 222% with nearly and lifestyles, its festivals, arts, Government of India, in 10,000 foreign arrivals recorded and crafts, make it a holiday association with the North last year, he added. destination waiting to be explored. Eastern States with an objective Shri N. Biren Singh also said to highlight the tourism potential
64 Manipur Today, January, 2020
9TH SESSION OF THE 11TH MANIPUR LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY ADJOURNED SINE DIE House Reaffirms Resolution 121 on Naga Peace Talk
he 9th session of Papers laid, one Discussion on the second session on the issue the 11th Manipur Matter of Public Interest, four of Naga-Peace talk which was Legislative Assembly Calling Attention Motions, one raised by MLA Km. Ak. Mirabai was adjourned Government Bill passed, one during Zero Hour, the leader of sine die on 20th Resolutions reaffirmed.The 9th the House, Chief Minister Shri N. December, 2019. The House session of the 11th Manipur Biren Singh said that the issue is Talso passed the Manipur Goods Legislative Assembly began on an important matter for the State. and Services Tax (Second 18th December 2019. The Chief Minister reminded Amendment) Bill, 2019. The During the last sitting of the 9th that the House have already session had three sittings, session of the Manipur Legislative taken up 12 resolutions and the one obituary reference made, Assembly, the house reaffirmed new government acknowledging 18 Starred Questions, nine its Resolution 121 of July 23, the importance of the issue has Unstarred Questions, One 2018.Making a statement on already taken up two resolutions Committee Report tabled, one the floor of the House during on the matter. The resolution Short Notice Question, two
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seeks amendment of Article 3 Motion raised by MLA Shri K. He observed that there have been of the Indian Constitution for Ranjit Singh and MLA Shri DD reports of individuals who were India by incorporating that ‘prior Thaisii, the leader of the House not students withdrawing students consent of the State legislatures also expressed confidence that scholarships and non-compliance of the affected States shall be the meeting will have a positive of official procedure. He said in a mandatory while forming a outcome. bid to clean the department, even new State or changing names of actions against some officers were Shri Biren said that the issue is a existing States and also to request initiated. He further assured to long standing dispute since 1982 the Government of India to make check whether any contractor/s over traditional land ownership the contents of the Framework have withdrawn advance funds of a region along the inter- Agreement available to the without completing their works state boundary of Manipur and Government of Manipur, and and take up necessary actions Nagaland. During a meeting held there shall not be any change in including blacklisting their name on January 8, 1992, it was decided the present administrative set up and recovering the amount that both Sate Governments would of the State of Manipur and not according to the norms. request the Surveyor general of to grant any kind of autonomy India to carry out a border survey to any part of the State as a result to bring an amicable solution to of the Framework Agreement the boundary dispute. leading to resolution of the Naga political issue’. As per the last Government meeting held on October 14th, During the Calling Attention, 2000, there is no dispute over the Leader of the House informed inter-state boundary along the that the Committee on the issue of watershed but the dispute is over border disputes between Manipur the extent of the traditional inter- and Nagaland will have a joint village boundary. A committee During the Calling meeting with a team of Ministers was constituted on November from Nagaland on December 21, Attention, Leader of the 30th, 2000 for tracing out old 2019 (Saturday). The Committee historical records from Manipur House informed that will discuss on the issue of border Archives for ascertaining the facts dispute between Tungjoy Village the Committee on the in connection with the boundary in Senapati District, Manipur issue of border disputes dispute and Khezhakeno Village of Phek between Manipur and District, Nagaland. He reiterated that it is a sensitive Nagaland will have a issue and as such demands a The Committee headed by diplomatic stance to settle it.The joint meeting with a PHE Minister Shri L. Dikho Chief Minister also said that the as Chairman, with Minister team of Ministers from Centre will be urged to take up the Shri Karam Shyam and Tribal issue and settle the border issue Nagaland on December Affairs and Hills Minister Shri through proper consultations 21, 2019 (Saturday). The N Kayisii as members among with both the States. others including DCs and SPs Committee will discuss of the concerned districts was In response to another Calling on the issue of border constituted on December 7, 2018. Attention Motion raised by Shri dispute between Tungjoy The committee which also has Kh. Joykisan Singh on reported members from civil organizations misutilisation of funds under Village in Senapati of Senapati and Ukhrul districts MOBC, the leader of the House, District, Manipur and will look to settle land disputes Shri N. Biren Singh who is also between the two States including in-charge of MOBC, assured to Khezhakeno Village of both the Tungjoy Village dispute look into all the issues highlighted Phek District, Nagaland. and Dzuko Valley land dispute. by the MLA and to investigate into any wrongdoings in the Replying to a Calling Attention department.
66 Manipur Today, January, 2020
CM EXPRESSES HAPPINESS ON EXTENSION OF ILPS TO MANIPUR
hief Minister Shri India, it is now official that ILPS media persons that necessary N. Biren Singh is being enforced in Manipur with steps would be taken immediately announced that the immediate effect, he added. to check the influx of illegal Inner Line Permit immigrants at the border areas of Stating that it is a dream come System (ILPS) has the State. true for the people of Manipur, been enforced in Manipur from Shri N. Biren Singh said that the A copy of the publication in the C11th December 2019. The historic implementation of such law will Gazette of India was distributed announcement was made by him protect the indigenous people during the press conference. during a press conference held at of the State. The Chief Minister Chief Minister’s Secretariat. Minister for Law and Legislative thanked the Central leaders for Affairs Shri L. Jayantakumar, Briefing the media persons, the taking up such positive step in a Minister for Education Shri Th. Chief Minister stated that after short period of time for the larger Radheshyam, Deputy Chairman the verbal assurance by Union interest of State. Chief Minister State Planning Board Shri S. Home Minister Shri Amit Shah in also remembered the tireless Rajen , MLA of Sekmai AC Shri the Parliament on 9th December efforts made by the people, CSOs, H. Dingo, MLA of Yaiskul AC 2019, the extension of Inner Line Meira Paibis, political parties etc. Shri Th. Satyabrata, MLA of Permit System to Manipur is being for the implementation of ILPS in Keirao AC Shri L. Rameshwor published in the Gazette of India the State. Meetei and others attended the on 11th December 2019. With The Chief Minister informed the press conference. such publication in the Gazette of
67 Manipur Today, January, 2020
RD & PR, MANIPUR BAGS EIGHT NATIONAL AWARDS
he National Awards, (SIRD), Manipur received the the award. 2019 instituted by award. He expressed profound In the category of rural the Ministry of happiness on the achievement and employment under MGNREGA, Rural Development, expressed that the recognition is Moreh Block secured the 2nd best Government of an encouragement and a result of block in the country for timely India in a bid to recognize and teamwork. payment of wages and Thorcham Tencourage the outstanding Manipur also qualified in various village under Chakpikarong block performers who are involved in categories of awards. Rural of Chandel district as the best the implementation of various Engineering Department (RED), performing Gram Panchayat / Rural Daevelopment programmes Manipur won the third position village authority (hills). Shri was distributed at New Delhi in PMGSY for construction of Irengbam Dinesh Kumar, on 19th December 2019. Shri maximum road length using BDO, Moreh, Shri Seiminthang Narendra Singh Tomar, Union nonconventional construction Lenthang, BDO, Chakpikarong Minister of Rural Development material (Green Technology) and the chief of Thorchan village & Panchayati Raj and Sadhavi among North East and Himalayan got their awards. Niranjan Jyoti, Minister of State States. Shri Th. Nandakishore for Rural Development gave away In the category of individual Singh, Chief Engineer (RED), the awards in a function held at C. awards to field functionaries, Manipur received the award. Subramaniam Auditorium, Pusa Smt. AmomBina Devi, Pradhan complex. Manipur also secured the first of Wangoo Gram Panchayat in position under the category of Moirang block of Bishnupur Department of Rural overall performance (small states district received the Best Gram Development & Panchayati Raj, and UTs) in the implementation Pradhan Award for successful Government of Manipur won a of Shyama Prashad Mukhrejee implementation of rural housing total of eight awards in different Rurban Mission (SPMRM). Shri scheme, PMAY(G) and Shri categories. In training, the State Ibochouba Singh, Co-ordinator Wahengbam Bimolchand Institute of Rural Development collected the award. Singh, Gram Rojgar Sevak (SIRD), Manipur under (GRS) of Directorate of Rural Directorate of Rural Development In the category of awards for Development & Panchayati Raj, & Panchayati Raj, Manipur has implementation of rural housing Manipur who is currently posted won the Best Performing SIRD schemes particularly PMAY in Moirang block of Bishnupur in North East and Himalayan (G), Chandel District has been district got the award for Best Region for imparting the highest awarded the Best District in the Village Development Official in number of training programmes category of construction of one recognition of his contributions as well as providing training to thousand houses target and Shri in successful implementation of the highest number of trainees. Krishna Kumar, IAS Deputy PMAY(G) scheme in Wangoo Shri H. Balkrisna Singh, Director Commissioner, Chandel collected Gram Panchayat.
68 Manipur Today, January, 2020
INCLUSIVE EDUCATION AND ITS BENEFITS TO DIFFERENTLY-ABLED CHILDREN
Nameirakpam Bino Devi Assistant Professor in Home Science, Lilong Haoreibi College, Lilong
People with disabilities are vulnerable because of the many barriers we face... attitudinal, physical and financial. Addressing these barriers is within our reach and we have a moral duty to do so... But most important, addressing these barriers will unlock the potential of so many people with so much to contribute to the world. Governments everywhere can no longer overlook the hundreds of millions of people with disabilities who are denied access to health, rehabilitation, support, education and employment – and never get the chance to shine.
Stephen Hawking
n India, out of the 121 crore fall within the purview of human caste, family income, sexuality, population, 2.68 persons resource development ministry. colour, religion or ethnic origins. are disable which is 2.21% Indeed, over 36 million disabled The term inclusive replaced of the total population children need special education ‘integration’ which was used in (2011 census). In the which will ensure equalisation the 1980’s refers to the placement latest era inclusive education of educational opportunity – a of pupils with special educational Ifor inclusive development for prime objective taken by the needs in the mainstream schools. the disable persons are needed Kothari Commission (1954). to be emphasise as the right 78% of Indian population lives in Inclusive Education is a way path and decisions towards rural areas without the provisions of imparting knowledge and sustainable development with of special schools eventhough creative thinking about how focus initiatives for the welfare of India is seen as having one of all children to be participated the disable persons are essential the most progressive educational irrespective of their different and this emphasises the need for policies with disabled children. limitation regarding special strengthening disability statistics Differently- abled or handicapped needs and yet can be educated in the country. The national policy is an alternative term to avoid and trained without any kind of for persons with disabilities (2006) discrimination towards people discrimination from the normal recognises that persons with with disabilities. peers. Inclusive Education looks disabilities are valuable human both the opportunities for equal resource for the country and seeks Inclusive Education is an participation for any students to create an environment in order approach which encompasses the with disabilities and transformed to provide equal opportunities, broader education system about to respond to diverse groups education, and protection of their the pupil’s right to participate of learners in a mainstream rights and full participation in the fully in school life and the school’s environment. society with the help of inclusive duty is to welcome and accept education for them. them soundly. It is an emphasis In the initial stage, the Inclusive rejecting segregation and Education movement was India is one of the few countries in exclusion of learners for whatever emphasised with learning the world where the education of reason, whether it is disability, disability persons but recently, children with special needs doesn’t different gender, language,the concept of Inclusive expanded
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with those persons in the Ainscow M 2002). Inclusive • Measures to Enhance marginalised groups. It becomes Education becomes central to Effective Teaching of Students an effective effort to address and human rights to education for in an Inclusive Setting: provide resources to support equal rights and opportunities • A variety of teaching learning and participate in extra or and priority policy objective strategies and approaches. co-curricular activities to respond to liberal democracies. The• Clear learning objectives to diversity (Ainscow et.al. 2006, Inclusive Education agenda outlined at the beginning of Booth 2002) and should focus needs to fuel discussions about the lesson, reference made to on a wide range of vulnerable or the roles of various specialists, them during the lesson, and at risk groups. Thus, Inclusive special educational facilities that a review with the students of Education is all about equal currently exist within school what has been learned occurs opportunities for all children and system and the system should at the end of the lesson. young people whatever their age, meet the requirements of all • Formative assessment gender, ethnicity, attainment or students on high quality systems, strategies for identifying the background. The perspective is and effective setting must be students’ progress that are that all pupils may require some paramount. School systems need used to help inform teaching forms of extra support in their to be reformed and pedagogy approaches. schools carrier. needs to be improved so as to • The content of lessons is fulfil positive to student diversity matched to the needs of the With the worldwide civil rights to get opportunities for enriching students and to their levels of movement in the 1960’s that learning environment. ability. the system of parallel provision • Multi-sensory approaches to began to be questioned as Inclusive Education – in Practice learning and teaching. with disabilities, challenged • Materials, including concrete the stigmatising and limiting Practicing of Inclusive materials, are appropriate to nature of segregated education Education is not easy; rather, it the needs, ages, interests, and raising their voice of anger and is a challenging task. The index aptitudes of the students. dissatisfaction. The political(Booth and Ainscow 2002 P3) • Deviations from lesson plans pressure and parental advocacy identifies a range of necessary when unexpected learning groups began to change society’s measures which are below: opportunities arise do not values and would ultimately result in the loss of the original bring legislative changes to • Equal value both for all objectives of the lesson. reform education. The present students and teachers. • Appropriate time is allowed emphasis on Inclusive Education • Maximum participation for practice, reinforcement, is to transform the mainstream and reduction of exclusion and application of new to respond all learners which from the different cultures, knowledge and skills in is rooted in ideology of human curricula and communities of practical situations. rights. This education form is to local schools. • Students are reinforced and get chance of accommodation and • Reducing barriers to learning affirmed for knowledge and provision of appropriate structure and participation for all skills learned. and arrangement to enable each students. • Opportunities are in place learner to achieve the maximum • Viewing the difference throughout the curriculum benefit from his/her attendance at between students as resources to enable students to develop school. to support learning, rather language and communication than as problems to be skills (e.g. listening, speaking, The Inclusive education overcome. reading and writing). movement is not a simple task • Fostering mutually sustaining • Opportunities are taken and started endorsed through the relationship between schools throughout the curriculum to world by UNESCO’s Salamanca and communities develop personal and social statement (1994) and reflects the • Recognising that inclusion skills. United Nations Global Strategy in education is one aspect of • Students are encouraged to of Education for all (Farrellpad, inclusion in society. explore links with other areas
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of the curriculum. • Homework is designed to Time for Planning One hour per day consolidate and extend, Training Teachers need systematic and to promote independent intensive training and access to learning, to monitor ongoing education individual students’ and class Personnel Resources Extra staff to assist in the progress, and to evaluate the classroom effectiveness of the teaching and learning. Material Resources Adequate curriculum resources (Source: Department of Education and equipment to cater for those and Science, 2007, pp. 105) with disabilities Class Size Class size should be fewer than 20 when students with SEN are included Inclusive Education Consideration of the severity of Teachers are more willing to is a way of imparting the disability include children with mild disabilities than students with knowledge and creative more severe disabilities because thinking about how all this is less disruptive to their children to be participated overall goal of teaching the irrespective of their whole class different limitation (Source: Scruggs and Mastropieri, 1996, pp. 61)
Factors Necessary for Successful training and professional groups in the society and from Inclusion: development for all staff. different concerned state, central Inclusive Education – Successful have to train teachers to manage Development of Inclusive Thus, to conclude that Inclusive inclusive classrooms. Inclusive Schools Involves: Education in both abroad and is not an experiment to be tested India have lots of benefits for the but it should have a value to be • Understanding and disabled children in imparting followed and very much need for acknowledging inclusion as knowledge, in skill development the disabled children because, a continuing and evolving to improve good relationship, they also are the future citizens of process. efficiency of teachers working the country. • Creating learning with disabled children. Reports environment for special, suggested Inclusive Education emotional, physical and helps students to improve cognitive development. academic achievement, capacity • Appropriate curriculum to building to change attitude Inclusive Education meet the needs of desire both for disabled children and is an approach which learners. teachers. Again the practicability encompasses the broader • Sustainability of participation of enhancing inclusive education of pupils, teachers, parents in school setting to bring in the education system about and community members in mainstream there are lots of the pupil’s right to the work of school helps from Government side, • Restructuring the cultures, NGO’s, stakeholders, parents, participate fully in school policies and practices in educationists, policy makers to life and the school’s duty schools to respond to the uplift the Inclusive Education so is to welcome and accept diversity of pupils within the as to reach the unreached sections locality. of marginalised groups of them soundly. • Engaging in appropriate children and disabled, segregated
71 Manipur Today, January, 2020
CULTURE & TRADITION BRIDGES OUR PAST AND PRESENT: DEPUTY CHIEF MINISTER: Y. JOYKUMAR SINGH
eputy Chief forefathers spent their lives. areas. Almost all the villages in Minister Shri By knowing such invaluable Mao Assembly Constituency Yumnam things we can follow their have been given safe drinking Joykumar Singh footnotes by preserving our water supply. Inter village roads has said that age-old culture and traditions. have been developing and culture and tradition bridges blacktopping of village roads PHED Minister Shri Losii Dour past and present and also are in progress, he added. Dikho while speaking at show us the footnotes of our the ceremony as Functional Special prayer was organized future. He was speaking at the President said, we are very as a mark of respect to the Lord inaugural ceremony of “The much impressed by the and cultural dance was also Veymy Teithe – Tungjoy Glory commitment and dedication shown in the ceremony. The Day” 2020 held at Tungjoy shown by the people of Tungjoy two days annual event will be Village in Senapati district on village. He said it is one of the closed tomorrow. Village Chief 4th January, 2020. oldest historical villages in Shri Zh. Dahrii, Members of Speaking at the inaugural Senapati district. There has Autonomous District Council, ceremony as Chief Guest, been a good work culture Senapati and District Level Deputy Chief Minister said, among the people of the village officials have also participated the way of life of a community giving them socio-economic among others in the Ceremony. can be depicted through the prosperity for the last many Earlier, Tungjoy Village culture and tradition of that decades. The Minister added Authority Council submitted particular community. He said that State Government is a memorandum demanding it is the way through which committed to the welfare of three points to the Deputy we can acknowledge how our people even in the interior hilly Chief Minister.
72 Manipur Today, January, 2020 GAAN-NGAI TRUE REFLECTION OF ZELIANGRONG CULTURE
Lanchamei Monica Golmei Research Scholar, Mass Communication, Manipur University.
Photo: Sangaipu Maringmei
estivals have been an production”. Kristin Kuutma also people. The festival is celebrated inseparable part of affirms that activities available across the North-East states of people’s lives all over in a given festival reflect the Assam, Manipur, and Nagaland. the world with a distinct concerns of the community, It is one of the greatest festivals quality of their own, thus providing scenery for amongst all the festivals of unique culture and have their expressing particular ethnicity Zeliangrong community as Fown significance of celebrating while suggesting personal it involves all the elements of a particular festival. According affirmation, political action, social social, religious and cultural to Anthropologist and Folklorist revitalization. Festival facilitates aspects signifying the identity of Beverly J. Stoeltje, “Festivals are regeneration and enacts social Zeliangrong community. collective phenomena and serve life, it strengthens the identity of The annual Gaan-Ngai festival purposes rooted in group life. the group and its power to act in last for five to seven days Systems of reciprocity and of its own interest, and it contributes depending on local variation. shared responsibility ensure the to the articulation of social issues. During this time, the people of continuity of and participation Gaan-Ngai is the biggest festival Zeliangrong immerse themselves in the festival through the and cultural expression of in the rich culture as there are distribution of prestige and religious belief of Zeliangrong no better way to express one’s
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form keeping the tradition alive in the minds of the community members and also performs in upkeeping the cultural values of life. The festival brings the group together and transmits the unique cultural values of Zeliangrong community to the younger generation by participating in it. The statement by Professor Gangmumei Kamei stands true to the fact that “Gaan-Ngai is a great festival, a unique cultural phenomenon, a form of aesthetic expression of the Zeliangrong religion and philosophy. It is also artistic talent, strength through of the Zeliangrong people. Gaan an institution through which sports (Male), arts and literature –Ngai, in a nut-shell, contains the the community sustains their through songs, dances, drum belief, social etiquette and culture cultural heritage and way of life. beating (used as traditional media of the Zeliangrong tribe. In fact, Gaan-Ngai is the essence of the to inform people) including rites one can say that Gaan-Ngai is the Zeliangrong culture.” and ritual such as shouting of Hoi mirror of the Zeliangrong people.” The most interesting part of the (invocation to Tingkao Ragwang, Moving towards a world where Gaan-Ngai festival is that despite seeking his blessing), oblation of the people and its culture are any social status one’s hold, the holy wine etc. becoming homogenous due to the assigned duties to any individual Socially, Gaan-Ngai also unstoppable popular culture and have to be fulfilled as part of promotes peace, unity, and a westernization our proud culture the celebration. Another aspect sense of responsibility within the and tradition are in danger, of of motivation for participation family system and society as a becoming trivialised. Thus, it is includes social interaction that whole. Moreover, Gaan-Ngai is mainly the followers of Indigenous allows for the exploration and a festival where the persons who faith Tingkao Ragwang Chapriak negotiation of many kinds of passed away in the previous year (TRC) and Heraka Cults relationships. and also to all the living souls performing the festival in its true participating in the celebration are honoured. Not only does Gaan Ngai preserve the material culture but also contribute to the preservation of intangible cultural heritage such as living cultural knowledge, identity, significance and core values embedded in the traditional customs and ritual of the Zeliangrong community. Author Makulim Riamei asserted that “The dynamic dimensions of Gaan-Ngai covers almost all vital aspects of life. It fulfils the much needed social, religious and cultural aspirations of life. Indeed, it is multi-faceted festival playing multiple-roles in shaping the life
74 Manipur Today, January, 2020
CHIEF MINISTER, MANIPUR RECEIVES KRISHI KARMAN AWARD FROM PRIME MINISTER
n behalf of the award carries a trophy, a citation Governors, Chief Ministers, Manipur State and an amount of Rs. 5 crore. Union Ministers and Agriculture Government, Ministers of different States also At the same time, two progressive Chief Minister attended the function witnessed farmers of the State namely, Shri Shri N. Biren by a mammoth crowd. Yenkhom Bishworjit Singh of Singh along with Agriculture Kakching Panji Leikai, Kakching The award winners were OMinister Shri V. Hangkhanlian, District and Smt. Thingbaijam selected by a committee headed Commissioner (Agriculture) Johnny Chanu of Lamboikhul by top officials of the Union Shri M. Joy and Director Awang Leikai, Imphal East Government based on their (Agriculture) Smt. Laltanpui District, also received the assessment of performance received Krishi Karman Award Agriculture Minister’s Krishi regarding production outcomes, 2017-18 from Prime Minister Karman Award for Progressive implementation of crop ShriNarendraModi in a glittering Farmers for highest production production programmes and award distribution function held in rice and pulses during 2017- innovative approaches adopted at Government Pre-University 18 respectively. The awardfor effective service delivery. College, Bengaluru Honnavar consists of Rs. 2 lakh along with a Road, Tumakuru, Karnataka on The Prime Minister also presented PrashashtiPatra. 2nd January 2020 Krishi Karman Awards to other During the year 2017-18, the selected progressive farmers Manipur was selected for the State achieved highest production as well apart from releasing prestigious award as the best- of rice and pulses to the tune of the 3rd installment of PM performing State in Overall Food- 2570 kg/ha and 960 kg/ha against Kisan to approximately 6 crore grain Production Category-III the national average of 2475 kg/ha beneficiaries at the function. (production less than 1 million and 779 kg/ha respectively. tone) for the year 2017-18. The
75 Manipur Today, January, 2020
186TH DEATH ANNIVERSARY OF MAHARAJ GAMBHIR SINGH OBSERVED
hief Minister Shri Lauding the sacrifice and courage implementation of Inner Line N. Biren Singh said of Maharaj Gambhir Singh, Nara Permit (ILP) system has been that let us forget Singh, Heerachandra and other fulfilled by the Centre under the and forgive our past unsung heroes of the State, Chief leadership of Prime Minister Shri mistakes and put our Minister said that what we are Narendra Modi and Union Home collective efforts to uphold the today is because of the selfless Minister Shri Amit Shah. The Cintegrity of the Nation as well as sacrifices made by our forefathers. implementation of ILP system the State. This was stated by him Patriotic and nationalistic feelings will protect the indigenous people at the 186th Death Anniversary of are inborn traits and should run of the State, he added. high in our blood, he added. Maharaj Gambhir Singh observed Chief Minister led others in He further maintained that the at the Samadhi of the Maharaj paying floral tributes to the statues supreme sacrifices made by our located at Langthabal, Imphal of Maharaja Gambhir Singh and forefathers towards protecting the West on 9th January 2020. Meidingu Narasingh and Sana integrity of our land should also Heerachandra. A contingent of Speaking as Chief Guest, Chief be included in the school syllabus. Minister stated that there will be Manipur Rifles offered a guard peace and prosperity in the State The Chief Minister affirmed of honour and gun salute and only when we commit ourselves that the territorial boundary sounding of the last post as a mark to build unity and integrity and integrity of the State will of respect to Gambhir Singh, Nara among the communities living in remain intact. He continued that Singh, and other unsung heroes. the State. the long-time demand for the
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MAJOR ACHIEVEMENT OF AGRICULTURE DEPARTMENT, MANIPUR DURING 2019-20 Laltanpuii Vanchhong Director of Agriculture, Manipur
1. Pradhan Mantri Kisan 3. Compensatory Crop Plan: The award was conferred Samman Nidhi Yojana (PM for highest foodgrain During the Kharif 2019 there KISAN): production under Category- III was scarcity of rain water (Production<1 million tone). As per Agriculture Census Report accordingly drought was The Award consists of a trophy, there are about 1.25 lakhs Small declared on 31.08.2019 on citation and cash amount of Rs. 5 and Marginal Farmers to be the recommendation of State crore. In addition, 2 Progressive enrolled under the scheme. Cabinet. Department prepared farmers viz., Shri Yenkhom a Compensatory Crop Plan for Till date 1.23 lakhs of farmers has Bishworjit Singh, from Kakching the drought affected area to been identified and successfully Panji Leikai, Kakching District compensate the crop losses during enrolled and they are getting Rs. and Smt. Thingbaijam Johnny Kharif 2019. 6000 per annum in three equal Chanu from Lamboikhul Awang installments of Rs.2000 each, An additional area of 15860 Leikai, Imphal east district, at every four months interval hectares was brought under the were also awarded “Agriculture through Direct Benefit Transfer Compensatory Crop Plan Rabi Minister’s Krishi Karman Award (DBT). 2019 by distributing Rabi seed for Progressive farmers for highest like Pea, Wheat, Mustard, Rabi production in Rice and Pulses 2. Fall Army Worm (FWA): Maize, Gram and Lentil. during 2017-18” respectively. During May, 2019 there was The award consists of Rs. 2.00 an outbreak of Fall Armyworm lakh along with a “PRASHASHTI which is known to have caused PAT R A”. huge devastation in countries During the Year 2017-18 the State like United State and Africa. achieved highest productivity The infestation in the state was Rice and Pulses to the tune of reported to be in about 4058.54 2570 Kg per hectare and 960 hectares of Maize crop covering Kg/hectare against the national all districts. Though a meticulous average of 2475 Kg/ha and 779 action plan Fall Army Worm 4. Krishi Karman Award: Kg/ha respectively. was controlled 100% in the State within 30 days. The State had been awarded the 5. Achievement under various prestigious Krishi Karman. The centrally sponsored schemes: award was handed over to all I. Pradhan Mantri Krishi awardee States and Progressive Sinchayee Yojana – Per Drop Farmers by the Hon’ble Prime More Crop (PMKSY-PDMC): Minister of India at Tumkur District of Karnataka on 2nd Subsidies were provided through January, 2020. The award for the direct benefit transfer (DBT) state was received by Hon’ble Chief for 1110 water pump sets with Minister Shri N. Biren Singh, accessories, Constructed 100Nos Hon’ble Minister Agriculture of Water Harvesting Tank/ Pond, Shri V. Hangkhanlian, Shri M. Joy Renovated 165 existing water Singh, Commissioner (Agri) and harvesting Pond/ Tank, 111 Laltanpuii Vanchhong, Director Irrigation channel/ Drainage/ of Agriculture, Manipur. poly pipe, 21 Cheek Dam / Micro
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Storage / Pick up Weir, 250 Drip Rice Mill, 38 Farm Machinery irrigation System and 1271 Bank (project cost upto 10 lakhs), Sprinkler Irrigation System etc., 69 Farm Machinery Bank (project to the selected beneficiaries. cost above 10 lakhs and below 25 lakhs).
Water Harvesting Tank/ Pond III. Rashtriya Krishi Community Nursery Vikas Yojana - Remunerative Approach for Agriculture and IV. National Food Security Allied sector Rejuvenation Mission (NFSM): Under the (RKVY- RAFTAAR) Scheme 19.218 Mt of certified seeds of Cereal Crops and Pulses Rising of Community Nursery: for the Kharif and Rabi 2019-20 For fighting the dry spell in and 326 plant protection sprayer the state and to supplement has been distributed to the the requirement of Seedlings farmers. Department had raised Cheek Dam/Micro Storage Community Nurseries- 20 Hectares (5 hectares in each 4 The State had been awarded the valley districts) to transplant prestigious Krishi Karman. The 200 Hectares and 1 hectare of award was handed over to all Dapog Nursery to transplant awardee States and Progressive 100 hectares. The seedlings were Farmers by the Hon’ble Prime distributed to the Farmers. Minister of India at Tumkur District of Karnataka on 2nd January, 2020.
Irrigation channel/ Drainage II. Sub Mission on Agriculture Mechanization( SMAM): During the Year 2017- 18 the State achieved highest productivity Rice and Pulses to the tune of 2570 Kg per hectare and 960 Kg/hectare against Subsidies were provided through the national average of direct benefit transfer (DBT) Dapog Nursery 2475 Kg/ha and 779 Kg/ for 48 Tractors with accessories, ha respectively. 77 Reaper, 53 Power Tiller, 35 Rotavator, 64 Thresher, 50 Mini
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CONSERVATION INITIATIVES OF HORNBILLS IN TAMENGLONG AND NONEY DISTRICTS Kh. Hiltler Singh Range Forest Officer, Tamenglong
orest Department, is considered as home of eleven distinguished from other birds. Government of hornbills species. Hornbills are In the World there are more Manipur shall be bird species of mostly high flying than 57 species/ 75 sub species of organizing Hornbill and secretive nature. They are Hornbills including some ground Festival at Tamenglong monogamous and paired for dwelling Hornbills. India may from 2020. The idea for organizing life. The parental role of male is have more than eleven species of FHornbill festival was first mooted indispensable. During hatching Hornbills. by Hon’ble Forest & Environment time the male have to collect fruit 1. Great Hornbill (Buceros Minister Th. Shyamkumar in the and have to feed the female who is bicornis) (Linnaeus, 1758) of 5th Amur Falcon Festival held in the nest. They regurgitate what India also known as Great pied at Unity Stadium, Tamenglong they had collected and feed to the Hornbill is the largest member on 4th November 2019 so as to female. They are frugivorous and from the Hornbill family found in inculcate the love of the species thus help in natural regeneration Indian subcontinent. Great pied and to spread the awareness of of many important native tree Hornbill has very impressive size conservation of Hornbills to the species in the deep forest. Because and colour found in the forests common people far and wide. of the presence of its large beaks of Western Ghats, Himalayan and casques and its beautiful The species of Hornbills: India Forests, and North East India. body colour they are easily
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It is the state bird of Kerala and pouched) it frequents evergreen and Arunachal Pradesh. moist-deciduous forest of In Manipur rare resident; it Chandel, Churchandpur, Size. Length; Male - 130 cm, frequents evergreen and moist- Jiribam,Tamenglong and Ukhrul. Female - smaller than male. deciduous forest of Chandel, Churchandpur, Tamenglong . Species name in different In Manipur rare resident; it language/ dialects of Manipur frequents evergreen and moist- Species name in different deciduous forest of Chandel, language/ dialects of Manipur [Aimol: Rangkek; Chiru: Churchandpur, Tamenglong and Ramkek; Gangte: Langkek: Hmar: [Aimol: Wahei, Vahei; Anal: Ukhrul. Rangkek; Kharam: Rangkek; Pakowl; Hmar: Kawlhawk; Kom: Rangkek; Kuki: Langkeh; Species name in differentLamkang: Pukol; Meetei: Liangmei: Chakhuak; Maring; language/ dialects of Manipur Langmei-khou-dang(Kh. Yangkek; Meetei: Langmei-rang Samungou); Lang-mei-dong [Aimol: Piarang; Anal: Pakopa; (Kh. Samungou); Lang-mei-dong mei-ngou/Lang-mei-dong mai- Chothe:Phuirang; Hmar: Vapuol; a-raang-bi (K. Jugeshwor); Mizo: ngou (K. Jugeshwor); Mizo: Kharam: Pualrang; Liangmei: Vahai; Purum: Rangke;Rongmei: Vahai, Kawlhawk; Paite: Zova; Rengdi; Maram: Sarang; Meetei: Rangkeng, Rengkekna; Phawkongang;Rongmei: Hiu, Lang-mei-rel (Kh. Samungou); Shongbo:Kokmui; Tangkhul: Ranghiu, Liangmei: Chahiu; Mizo: Vapual; Monsang: Lengcha; Tarao: Ralkek; Zemei: Shongbo:Kokmui; Tangkhul: Puwraang; Moyon: Fuwlang; Herecheing] Akhok-arang, Hangkhok Paite: Phualpi; Purum: Plolang; kharang, Kokphrang; Tarao: CONSERVATION STATUS: Rongmei: Langdai,Raengdai Challo; Zemei: Ngui] LEAST CONCERN (Chambo); Shongbo:Kokmui; Tangkhul: Akhok-arang, CONSERVATION STATUS : 4. Malabar Pied Hornbill Hangkhok kharang, Kokphrang; VULNERABLE (Anthracoceros coronatus) Tarao: Phulraang:Zemei: Heredi] (Latham, 1790) also known as 3. Oriental Pied Hornbill lesser pied hornbill is a bird in CONSERVATION STATUS: (Anthracoceros albirostris) (Shaw, the hornbill family, a family of VULNERABLE 1843) is an Indo-Malayan pied tropical near-passerine birds hornbill, a large canopy-dwelling 2. Wreathed Hornbill/ found in the old World. bird belonging to the family Assam wreathed hornbill Bucerotidae. Two other common Manipur is out of its distribution (Rhyticeros undulatus) names for this species are Sunda Zone. Synonyms: Aceros undulates; pied hornbill (convexus) and (Shaw, 1811) also known as the CONSERVATION STATUS: Malaysian pied hornbill. The bar-pouched wreathed hornbill NEAR THREATENED species is considered to be among is a species of hornbill found in the smallest and most common of 5. Malabar Grey Hornbill forests from far North-eastern Asian hornbills. It has the largest (Ocyceros griseus) is a hornbill India and Bhutan, east and south distribution in the genus and is endemic to the Western Ghats and through Mainland Southeast found in the Indian Sub continent associated hills of Southern India. Asia and the Greater Sundas in and throughout Southeast Asia. They have a large beak but lack the Indonesia. It is 144 cm long in Its natural habitat is subtropical casque that is prominent in some male and about 98 cm in female. or tropical moist lowland forests. other hornbill species. They are Males weigh from 1.8 Kg to 3.65 The Oriental pied hornbill’s diets found mainly in dense forest and Kg and females weigh from 1.36 include fruits, insects, shellfish, around rubber, arecanut or coffee Kg to 2.7 Kg. Both sexes are small reptiles and sometime small plantation. They move around similar to the respective sexes of mammals and birds including in small groups feeding on figs, the closely related plain-pouched their eggs. and other forest fruits. Their loud hornbill but the wreathed hornbill cackling and laughing call makes can be recognized by the dark bar Size. Length; Male- 89 cm, them familiar to people living in on the lower throat (hence the Female- smaller than male. the region. Size 59 Cm in length. alternative common-name bar- In Manipur rare resident;
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The species is also distributed in [Kom: Veshop; Liangmei: arboreal and the most common Manipur; resident in Santing and Rengshiak; Mao: Shove; Maram: hornbill species sighted in pairs Henglep areas of Churchandpur Siigipui; Meetei: Lang-mei-kok- found on the Indian subcontinent District as suggested by K. ngang(Kh. Samungou), Langmei- commonly found in urban areas. Jugeshwor author of Check lists mei-dong ngak-ngang (K. The call of grey hornbill is a of Birds of Manipur (Page 75 and Jugeshwor); Purum: Polwasop; squealing call and flight involves Picture Plate 24:4). Rongmei: Rengshou] flapping interspersed with glides. It has grey feathers all over the Species name in differentCONSERVATION STATUS: body with light grey or dull white language/ dialects of Manipur VULNERABLE belly. The horn is black or dark [Gangte: Vakhupi; Kuki: Vakhupi; 8. Narcondam Hornbill grey with a casque extending to Meetei: Langmei-utman (Kh. (Rhyticeros narcondami) the point of curvature of the horn. Samungou); Lang-mei-dong ut- is endemic to the island of Manipur is not in its distribution maan(K. Jugeshwor)] Narcondam in Andaman Zone. predominantly fruits eaters and CONSERVATION STATUS: CONSERVATION STATUS: live only in small range of islands. LEAST CONCERN LEAST CONCERN CONSERVATION STATUS: 6. Austen’s Brown Hornbill 11. Tickell’s Brown Hornbill ENDANGERED (Anorrhinus austeni) (Blyth, (Anorrhinus tickelli) also known 1855) is a species of hornbill found 9. Plain-Pouched Hornbill as the rusty-cheecked hornbill, in forests from North-eastern (Aceros subruficollis) (Blyth,is a species of hornbill found in India and South of Vietnam and 1843) is very rarely sighted forests of Burma and adjacent northern Thailand. It is sometimes in Manipur. RK Birjit, State eastern Thailand. Austens’s included a sub species of Tickelli’s Coordinator of IBCN claimed the brown hornbill is considered brown hornbill. photograph he had taken in 2104 as subspecies of Tickell’s brown at Manipur valley, India was the hornbill. CONSERVATION STATUS: first time recorded sighting (All NEAR THREATENED Size Length c. 76 cm. previous records from Myanmar, 7. Rufous-necked Hornbill India and Sumatra were the The species is rare resident of (Aceros nipalensis) (Hodgson, results of misidentifications). Manipur. May be in the evergreen 1829) is a species of hornbill in Forests of Churchandpur (?), Size Length c. 90 cm North east India, especially in Tamenglong (Bunning) and Arunachal Pradesh, Indian Sub The species may be distributed Ukhrul continent and South East Asia. in Thoubal, Imphal Districts of [Meetei: Lang-mei-dong a-ngang- It is locally extinct in Nepal due Manipur. It was first recorded bi (K. Jugeshwor), Langmei- to hunting and significant loss of sighting at Sekmaijin by one utman/Kona Langmei (Kh. habitat. With length of 117 cm, it Unique Wildlife Protection Samungou); Mizo- Vangai] is among the largest Bucerotine Committee member Elangbam hornbills. The underparts, neck Budha in 2014. CONSERVATION STATUS: and head are rich rufous in the NEAR THREATENED Species name in different male, but black in the females. language/ dialects of Manipur Size. Length; Male- 122 cm, [Meetei: Langmei-tha-ngou(Kh. Female- smaller than male. Samungou), Langmei-mei-dong In Manipur rare resident; it mei-ngou-nao(K. Jugeshwor); frequents evergreen and moist- Rongmei: Raengsau (Hiu)] deciduous forest of Chandel, CONSERVATION STATUS: Churchandpur, Tamenglong and VULNERABLE Ukhrul. 10. Indian Grey Hornbill Species name in different (Ocyceros birostris) is mostly language/ dialects of Manipur
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MINISTER NEMCHA KIPGEN INAUGURATES ocial Welfare Minister Smt. Nemcha THE KANGPOKPI DISTRICT ONE STOP Kipgen inaugurated the SAKHI - One Stop CENTRE Centre (OSC), Kangpokpi District at the District Headquarters, Kangpokpi on 20th November 2019. The OSC was inaugurated under the directives of Ministry of Women and SChild Development (WCD), Government of India. Chief Guest of the function Minister Smt. Nemcha Kipgen expressed that the newly inaugurated OSC, Kangpokpi will serve as a centre equipped with an integrated range of services including medical, legal, rescue and response services, police services and psychological and social counseling support for the welfare of those women in distress or affected by any forms of violence in private and public places. Smt. Nemcha exhorted all stakeholders and the people of Kangpokpi District to extend maximum cooperation to the newly inaugurated OSC. Minister Nemcha informed that so far, One Stop Centres have already been inaugurated in 15 Districts of Manipur, the remaining one District will be inaugurated at the earliest. Sakhi One Stop Centre, Thoubal at Mini Secretariat Complex, Thoubal is the 1st ever centre in the state.
MINISTER JAYANTAKUMAR LAUNCHES ealth and Family Welfare Minister E-OFFICE Shri L. Jayantakumar Singh has today launched e-Office in a function held at the conference hall of Minister Health at South Block, Secretariat, Imphal on 25th November, 2019(Check). With e-Office the physical file is now replaced by an e-file that is processed online, he added. H Minister Jayantakumar said this new venture of the Department will enhance transparency in file process. Files can be tracked and their status known, to all at all times. It will also increase accountability and the responsibility of quality and speed of decision making. Minister also maintained that the introduction of e-Office will transform government work culture and ethics. Minister Jayantakumar also informed the media about the awards conferred to the Health Department, Manipur by the Ministry of Health, Government of India. During the recently concluded 6th National Summit on Good and Replicable Practices and Innovations in Public Healthcare System in India held at Gandhinagar, Gujarat, 2019, Health Department, Manipur has bagged many awards for outstanding performance exhibited by the state in health sector. Manipur has bagged best awards for Success behind the NCD GoI application, Best Practice titled, A Step towards Eliminating Viral Hepatitis, Delivery of Home Based palliative Care by HSC Level AB-HWCs and best practice titled for Making Communities a part of HWC initiative, he added.
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IMPHAL-DIMAPUR FLIGHT SERVICE hief Minister Shri N. Biren Singh COMMENCES inaugurated the Imphal-Dimapur direct flight service at Bir Tikendrajit International Airport on 7thDecember 2019. CChief Minister expressed his happiness over the launching of the Imphal-Dimapur flight service which is being operated by Alliance Air, a private airlines company. Chief Minister said that better connectivity would build deeper connections among the people of the two states. He maintained that such flight service would further strengthen the friendly relations between the States. The Chief Minister said that the flight service would be operational thrice a week. He informed that Alliance Air has promised to operate daily flight service between Imphal and Dimapur in the next 2-3 months. Minister for PHED Shri Losii Dikho, Minister for Fisheries Shri N. Kayasii, Chairman of Tourism Corporation of Manipur Limited Dr. Sapam Ranjan, Chief Secretary Dr. J. Suresh Babu, Commissioner Transport Shri M. Harekrishna, Director Transport Smt. Mercina Panmei, CEO of Alliance Air Shri CS Subbiah and others attended the inaugural function.
MINISTER NEMCHA KIPGEN GRACES ocial Welfare and Cooperation INTERNATIONAL DAY OF PERSONS WITH Minister Smt. NemchaKipgen graced DISABILITIES 2019 the International Day of Persons with Disabilities 2019 at Iboyaima Shumang Leela Shanglen on 3rd December 2019. It is celebrated under the theme ‘Promoting the Sparticipation of persons with disabilities and their leadership: taking action on the 2030 Development Agenda.’ Addressing the gatherings as Chief Guest, Smt. Nemcha Kipgen announced that Unique Disability ID (UDID) for Persons with Disabilities project is already launched in all the 16 Districts of Manipur. It is a project which is being implemented with a view of creating a National Database for PwDs, and to issue a Unique Disability Identity Card to each person with disabilities. This project will not only encourage transparency, efficiency and ease of delivering the government benefits to the person with disabilities, but also ensure consistency. It will also help in stream-lining the tracking of physical and financial progress of beneficiary at all levels of hierarchy of implementation i.e. from village level, block level, District level, State level and National level, she said. Minister Nemcha further stated that Department of Social Welfare, Manipur in collaboration with ALIMCO, Guwahati have conducted various assessment camps to identify the differently-abled people for providing various aids and appliances. She call upon the attention of all concerned people, CSOs and NGOs to bring to the notice of the department who requires these aids and appliances. Smt. Nemcha also expressed that Social Welfare Department, Government of Manipur is continuously striving for the welfare of the differently-abled community by implementing various welfare schemes and programmes namely Chief Minister Gi Shotharabasinggi Tenbang, scholarship for the students, free transportation allowance, marriage incentive, amongst others.
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WORKS MINISTER BISWAJIT INSPECTS orks Minister Shri Thongam KAKCHING MINI SECRETARIAT Biswajit Singh inspected the CONSTRUCTION ongoing construction work of Mini Secretariat building at Kakching along with local MLA Y.Surchandra Singh on 23rd November, 2019. WThe Minister and his team also inspected sites for a proposed cement factory to be set up on PPP model. During the inspection, Shri Biswajit said that until and unless the administrative block is strengthened, there will be hindrances in development and growth of any area. All schemes are to be distributed through this administrative set-up and as such a strong administrative block is required, he said. While inspecting the building, he directed the officials and contractors concerned to check quality of the work done and further expressed hope for an early completion of the building. Expressing the need for proper infrastructure in bringing administration to any area, he said enough man- power and proper infrastructure completes an Institute. Regarding Imphal-Moreh highway maintenance work, the Minister said the work progress is ahead of its scheduled timeline. He said a Food Park will be also set up soon at Yaithibi Loukon which will generate employment. A Jewellery Park and Logistic park will also be set up soon. This Food Park will attract numerous entrepreneurs which will help in giving employment to hundreds of local youth, he said. This is in line with the government’s objective of employment generation and a self-sustainable society, he added. Shri Biswajit also said that the Jewellery Park will also help in generating more than 5000 direct or indirect employment for the local youths. He said industrialization is necessary for a society to develop, however, without a Logistic Hub, no investor will be willing to come and so a Logistic Park is also very important. Shri Biswajit along with the local MLA also visited Laifam Loknung and Angan Ching. Chief Engineer (Building) Shri N Noren Singh and officials of other departments accompanied the Minister during the inspection visit.
3RD WOMEN FOOTBALL EXHIBITION MATCH HELD hief Minister Shri N. Biren Singh graced the 3rd Women Football exhibition match played between Manipur, India and Mandalay, Myanmar as Chief Guest at CMapalKangjeibungon 30thNovember 2019. MLA of Kakching AC Shri Y. Surchandra, Director, Ministry of Health and Sports, Mandalay, Shri U. MyintAung, State Level Committee for Actualisation of Act East Policy ConvenorShri R.K. Shivachandra, Head Coach, Sagiang Region Shri U. MaungMaung were present during the function. The Chief Minister said that the Imphal-Mandalay chartered flight service has been started to strengthen the friendly relations between India and Myanmar. The State government is persuading the Centre for a regular Imphal-Mandalay flight service soon, he added.
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KBZ AIRLINES BEGINS IMPHAL-MANDALAY FLIGHT SERVICE
n a historic move to boost air connectivity between Myanmar and India, Myanmar’s private carrier Air KBZ started its chartered flight service between Mandalay and Imphal on 23rd November 2019. The inaugural flight which departed from Mandalay landed at Ithe BirTikendrajit International Airport at around 11:30 a.m. The maiden flight was welcomed with the traditional water cannon salute. Minister for Health and Family Welfare Shri L. Jayantakumar Singh, Minister for CAF&PD ShriKaramShyam, Minister for Education Shri Th. Radheshyam, Chairman of Tourism Corporation Manipur Limited Dr.SapamRanjan, Chief Secretary Dr. J. Suresh Babu, Principal Secretary Shri P. Vaiphei, Director of Transport Department Smt. MercinaPanmei and others received the passengers with traditional lengyan (shawl). Speaking on the occasion, Minister for Education Shri Th. Radheshyam said that launching of such chartered flight service would enhance the air connectivity with neighbouring countries especially with Myanmar. The chartered flight will be operational thrice a week, he added. The Minister further maintained that the State government is persuading the Ministry of Civil Aviation for granting regular Imphal-Mandalay flight service.Shri Th. Radheshyam informed that the first Air KBZ flight carried around 72 passengers from Myanmar and the return flight will depart Imphal with 48 passengers including five officials. He appealed to the people of Manipur to support such noble initiative from the Government of Manipur. Chief Minister Shri N. Biren Singh earlier announced that the Imphal- Mandalay flight service would be available from BirTikendrajit International Airport in Imphal from 23rd November 2019 onwards. FOREST & ENVIORNMENT MINISTER SHYAMKUMAR INAUGURATES SANGAI ENCLOSURE AT ZOOLOGICAL GARDEN
orest and Environment Minister Shri Thounaojam Shyamkumar inaugurated enclosure of Sangai (brow-antlered deer) and declared opened for public display at the Manipur FZoological Garden on 7th December, 2019. The Sangai enclosure was inaugurated in the presence of Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF), Wildlife Shri DJN Anand, Smt. Gaithaolu Thaimei, Director, Manipur Zoological Garden along with other officers of the Forest Department. Minister Th. Shyamkumar said that the enclosure of Sangai was constructed under the Compensatory Afforestation Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA) following the standard design of Central Zoo Authority, Government of India. Appealing the citizens of the State to love and protect wildlife, he said that from now, citizens can watch the Sangai in full view at the enclosure. Expressing hope that more people will come forward to support the wildlife conservation, he lauded the Sangai Express Group of Publication for financially supporting the Manipur Zoological Garden for procuring feed for Sangai. He said such endeavor and commitment of social responsibility will surely inspire others to support and participate in wildlife conservation. Sangai enclosure at the Manipur Zoological Garden has an area of 4,800 sq metres with marshy vegetation, similar to the natural habitat of Sangai. The enclosure houses a large paddock area (animal display area) to meet the animal’s biological requirements including provision for night shelter, kraal and keeper gallery. The side towards the visitor’s path has a wet moat giving a bar-less appearance, offering full view of the animals to the visitors.
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GOVERNOR INAUGURATES SEMINAR seminar on “Changing security ON “CHANGING SECURITY PARADIGM paradigm in North East- Implications IN NORTH EAST- IMPLICATIONS AND and Imperatives” was inaugurated IMPERATIVES by Governor Dr.NajmaHeptulla at City Convention Centre, Imphal on 5th December 2019. The seminar was organised by AAssam Rifles; Sentinels of the North East under the aegis of HQ Director General, Assam Rifles. Speaking at the inaugural function as Chief Guest, Governor said that the theme of the seminar is appropriate considering regular reports on incidents disturbing social harmony, robbing of peace of the society even on trivial matters or disputes and violence. Loot, extortion, arson, destruction of properties, subversive activities committed by various unknown miscreants and loss of human lives are well-known consequences of such happenings. The Governor also stated that the trends and statistics of the last decade clearly illustrate that the armed insurgency around the entire region of North East has been gradually waning on a scale of intensity. This apparent shift in the regional security policy of the North East has been largely defined or modeled along anti-insurgency. Till a few years back, insurgency used to be the core theme of the security policy. There is more liberal approach to security with greater focus on peace, development and cooperative security to achieve stability at regional, national as well as global levels.
CM LAUNCHES MATRU VANDANA SAPTAH hief Minister Shri N. Biren Singh launched Matru Vandana Saptah, a week-long maternity benefits programme taken up under Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana CYojana (PMMVY), at Chief Minister’s Secretariat on 2nd December 2019. Speaking at the occasion, Shri N. Biren Singh said that around 1.2 crore women had been benefited by the scheme launched in 2017 in the country so far. However, there is still a need for wide publicity of the scheme because a large number of women are still unaware of the noble programme, he observed. The Chief Minister directed the officials concerned to execute works related to the scheme on mission mode to achieve the intended target. Opining that lack of awareness is the primary reason for the low rate of registration in hill and interior areas, the Chief Minister also stressed on the need for keeping ADC Members, Village Authorities and Panchayati Raj institutions in the loop in this regard. He further instructed the concerned officials to identify and award the best performing district and block. Social Welfare Minister Smt. Nemcha Kipgen, who also attended the function, said that the scheme is a noble effort of the Government to provide monetary help to pregnant women and lactating mothers to have a proper diet and nutritious food. She also observed that apart from Government officials, people also have a great role to play in making the scheme a success. Under Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY), Rs. 5000/- is provided to pregnant women and lactating mothers for the first living child of the family in three installments. The amount will be transferred directly to their bank accounts or post office accounts. In case of institutional delivery, an additional benefit of Rs. 1000 can also be claimed under Janani Suraksha Yojana (JSY).
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anipur celebrated its Statehood MANIPUR STATEHOOD DAY Day at 1st Manipur Rifles Parade 2020 CELEBRATED Ground on 21st January 2020. On this day in 1972, Manipur along with other two North Eastern states, Tripura and Meghalaya, became full-fledged states under the North Eastern Region (Re-organisation) Act, 1971. M Speaking at the celebration as the chief guest, Shri N. Biren Singh announced that the State Cabinet had approved an amount of Rs. 46 (forty-six) crores for setting up of a Heritage Park at Keibul Lamjao in Bishnupur District. The Park would have traditional huts of all the recognised tribes of the State, he said and added that once the Park is ready, the main venue of Manipur Sangai Festival might be shifted to the original birth place of Sangai although important stalls are opened in Imphal. In his speech, Shri N. Biren also mentioned about Government’s efforts to make Manipur a self reliant State in food production. He said that the State Government has been focussing on sectors like agriculture, horticulture, fishery etc. As a result, the Chief Minister said, the State could receive the Krishi Karman Award2017-18 for the best performing State in the total food grain production Category-III. At the same time, fish production had also witnessed considerable rise in the past few years, he added. Stating that education is another priority sector of the State Government, Shri N. Biren Singh said that 60 schools (one each in every Assembly Constituency) had been selected as model schools under School Fagathansi Mission. Free education would be provided from Pre-Nursery to Class X or XII from this academic session in most of these schools, he added. Earlier, two progressive farmers namely, Yengkhom Bishworjit Singh of Kakching Panji Leikai and Thingbaijam Johnny Chanu of Lamboikhul Awang Leikai, who had recently received Union Agriculture Minister’s Krishi Karman Award were again rewarded a cash prize of Rs. One Lakh each by the State Government at the function. Presentation of a colourful march past comprising contingents of Manipur Rifles, Civil Police, Home Guards, VDF, Traffic Police, CID Technical (Bomb Squad) and Dog squad was the main attraction of the celebration. The march past was commanded by Assistant Director of Manipur Police Training College, Sarangthem Asana.
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STATE GOVERNMENT’S MAJOR ACHIEVEMENTS FOR THE CALENDAR YEAR 2019
Inner Line Permit System under the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulations has been extended to Manipur. The Union Cabinet HOME headed by Prime Minister has given ex-post facto approval to the Adaptation of Laws (Amendment) Order, 2019 issued by the President under clause (2) of Article 372 of the Constitution to amend the BEFR, 1873. War on drugs continued relentlessly. Approximately 705 kg of brown sugar, 17 kg of No. 4 Heroin Powder, 229 of opium, 65.6 lakhs WY tablet were seized amongst other items. 3015 acres of poppy plantation were destroyed. Seizure and destruction worth Rs. 458 crore was made in 2019. 264 cases were registered. 368 persons were arrested. Crack down on illicit liquors continued. Nearly 320.00 litres of Distilled Illicit country made liquor destroyed. Over 62,000 bottles of IMFL, 16,000 bottles and cans of beer were destroyed. 1435 persons have been arrested. Efforts to restore peace and normalcy continued with 8 extremists killed and 493 arrested. 6 extremists surrendered to Government. Clandestine Brown Sugar laboratories at Lilong Dam, Moijing Awang Leikai, Usoipokpi, Sada Khumbi and Phaijang village were busted. 662 kg of brown sugar were seized along with chemicals, machinery and equipment. Serial blasts at Kakching Khongnang Mari Panba, Khurai and Thangal Bazar solved. To strengthen police administration, Behiang Police Station and Sora Khunuda Police Outpost have been inaugurated. 441 riflemen have been recruited.
20,833 beneficiaries were selected under Manipur Old Age Pension Scheme (MOAPS) from amongst the applications submitted during SOCIAL Go To Village Mission. Benefits were transferred through PFMS. The Department has opened 24x7 One Stop Centers in all the 16 WELFARE districts. Any woman in distress can approach these centers for availing short term Medico-Legal services. Persons with disabilities can now apply online for Disability Certificates and cards through the website http://www. swavlambancard.gov.in/ from their own homes. Under PMMVY, pregnant women and lactating mothers are given a
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monetary benefit of Rs.5000 for the first live birth. A total of 29,101 beneficiaries have been enrolled on PMMVY-CAS till date. A sum of Rs.11.13 crores have been disbursed through Direct Benefit Transfer.
A total of 6446 households have been provided power connection in 2019. Since, 2017-18, a total of 1.42 lakh households have been POWER provided power connection. Under Special Plan Assistance, a Fish Feed Mill of capacity of 170 kg/ FISHERIES hr of floating fish feed has been established. The feed produced at mill are sold at the rate of Rs. 55 per kg. The Department of Fisheries facilitated sanction of 437 nos. of fishery loans for a total amount of Rs. 9.4 crores through 16 banks led by the Manipur State Co-operative Bank. Under CMHT, a total of 3,68,684 individuals have been enrolled. HEALTH 12,624 patients have been provided free hospitalization in 2019-20 so far, involving free treatment of Rs 16 crores. 24 local hospitals have been empaneled. MoU has been signed for empaneling 01 Outside Hospital: Narayana Super speciality Hospital, Guwahati. Under AYUSHMAN BHARAT (PMJAY), 2 lakh individuals have been enrolled. 8436 patients have been given free hospitalization, equivalent to free treatment of Rs. 13 crores in 2019-20. 24 local hospitals have been empaneled. Neurosurgery ward/unit inaugurated at JNIMS. 52,314 gas connections have been given under Ujjwala scheme in CAF&PD 2019. So far, a total of 1,55,246 gas connections have been given since 2017-18. HANDLOOM Handloom 1815 looms have been distributed in 2019. Under SCHOOL FAGATHANSI PROGRAMME, In the first EDUCATION (S) phase, 60 (sixty) schools have been selected. 841 teachers have been transferred and posted for these schools. A total of 237 schools (176 in the valley, 61 in the hills) have been amalgamated to nearby schools having better infrastructure, better connectivity, better student enrollment for overall improvement in the school education sector. There was 15-20% increase in students’ enrollment in Government schools in the State. To improve the infrastructure of existing government schools, under SSA and RMSA, 177 Nos of works has been completed for providing classrooms, drinking water tanks, etc. Under “Know your State” initiative, 153 Students were provided opportunity to explore and understand the beautiful landscape and landmark of the State through helicopter ride. “No School Bag Day” has been introduced on all working Saturdays in respect of children studying in Class I-VIII in all schools in the State.
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Overall pass percentage improved from 67.04% in 2018 to 73.83% in 2019 in the Class XII Higher Secondary Examination. In class X examination, pass percentage of Government schools improved from 50.99% in 2018 to 53.77% in 2019. 1831 houses have been completed under PRADHAN MANTRI AWAS MAHUD/RD&PR YOJANA (Urban). A total of 42,651 beneficiaries has been sanctioned for all 27 towns/Urban Local Bodies in the State. Further, a total of 790 houses have been completed under PMAY (Rural). SIRD, Manipur is awarded by the Ministry of Rural Development in its National Awards, 2019 as the Best Performing SIRD in North East and Himalayan Region for imparting the highest number of training programmes. The State had generated 97.26% person days of the approved Labour Budget of 160 Lakh Person days. The State’s Labour Budget has now been revised to 260 Lakh person days. Under SWACHH BHARAT MISSION (URBAN), out of the target for construction of 43,644 Individual Household Latrines (IHHL), 34,242 units have been completed, thereby achieving 82% of the target. In Swachh Survekshan (National Cleanliness competition) 2019, out of the first 20 top rankings, our towns captured 14 ranks occupying the first to ninth rank. About 1.23 lakhs Small and Marginal Farmers have been enrolled AGRICULTURE under Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana (PM KISAN). They are getting Rs. 6000 per annum through DBT. Outbreak Fall Armyworm in May affecting over 4000 hectares of agricultural lands was controlled 100% in the State within 30 days. The State has been selected for the prestigious Krishi Karman Awards for highest foodgrain production under Category- III (Production <1 million tone). Manipur Heli Service (MHA) was relaunched connecting (i) Imphal – TRANSPORT Jiribam, (ii) Imphal - Moreh& (iii) Imphal-Tamenglong. Introduction of Guwahati-Dimapur air connectivity has been introduced providing flight services three times a week. Loktak Inland Waterways Improvement Project has been approved with an estimated cost of Rs. 25.58 crores for augmentation of machinery and infrastructure for waterway cleaning at Loktak. Under Manipur State Transport (MST), during 2019, Imphal-Jiribam and Imphal-Churachandpur-Parbung bus services were introduced. 4000 MT Fresh Ginger has been sold from Pherzawl District to buyers HORTI & S.C. from outside the state fetching about Rs. 12 crores during 2019. Contract Agreements have been signed between companies from outside the State with companies based in the State for procurement
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of 100 MT of Organic Chakhao and for supply of canned organic pineapple. Under Mission for integrated Development of Horticulture, 80 Water Harvesting Structures have been taken up. (40 nos in Hills and 40 nos in Valley) ENVIRONMENT Project on Model Carbon Positive Eco-village at Phayeng under National Adaptation Fund for Climate Change has been approved for AND CLIMATE providing catchment area treatment through afforestation for 50 Ha, Command area development with check dams and canals for 500 Ha, CHANGE trainings, setting up of one soil laboratory, 600 Nos. of Solar street light and water treatment unit of 40,000 liter capacity. Project on Model Carbon Positive Eco-village at Phayeng under National Adaptation Fund for Climate Change has been approved for providing catchment area treatment through afforestation for 50 Ha, Command area development with check dams and canals for 500 Ha, trainings, setting up of one soil laboratory, 600 Nos. of Solar street light and water treatment unit of 40,000 liter capacity. 4 erstwhile Govt-aided colleges have been converted into full-fledged Govt colleges, namely S. K Women’s college, Waikhom Mani College, HR. EDUCATION Moreh College, South East Manipur College Appointment for 641 teaching and non-teaching posts have been made in the 6 erstwhile govt-aided colleges (ThambalMarik college, Standard college, MayaiLambi college, Liberal college, KakchingKhunou college and Biramangol college). Land measuring 3899.42 sqm at Dwarka purchased for construction GAD of Manipur Guest House. 3rd State Level Shirui Lily Festival, 2019 saw the performance of two TOURISM International Bands Nazareth and Extreme. International tourist footfall increased by 159% in 2018-19 over the previous year. Integrated Tourist Circuit at Longa Koireng Under Imphal - Tamei Tourist Circuit has been completed. Under Van Mahotsav, Forest Department, in collaboration with FOREST Department of Education (S) distributed more than 65,000 seedlings to various schools, involving more than 1.36 lac students Chief Minister’s Green Manipur Mission was launched to improve and maintain the green cover of the state. Under Pradhan Mantri Van DhanYojana, 77 nos. of Van DhanVikas Kendras have been sanctioned for Manipur to harness the enormous Non-Timber Forest Produce (NTPF) resources of the state and to provide livelihood opportunities to the forest based tribes of Manipur. Manipur hosted 65 National School Games in Football under 14 Yrs. YAS Boys secured 1st position (Champion). Manipur was placed in the 2nd Position for Under-14 yrs. Boys
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and under-17 Yrs. Girls in the Subroto Cup International Football Tournament 2019 held at New Delhi during 20th to 29th August, 2019 and 30th August to 6th September, 2019. Manipur was over-all champion for Under-17 yrs. Boys in the 65’” National School Games In cycling (Track). Construction of CD Block at Borobekra, Suangdoh and Thanlon has PWD been completed. Construction of 10000 MT Capacity Food Grain Godown each at Sawombung and Bishnupur has been completed. Construction of Bridge over Itok river at Chandrakhong and over Chakpi River at Chakpi Karong has been completed. Construction of Highway between Thoubal to Kasom Khullen measuring 47.125 Km under Externally Aided Projects have been completed. Strengthening of National Highway stretch between Churachandpur- Yaingangpokpi Section has been completed. Under National Green Crops Programme, Manipur Pollution Control MPCB Board distributed financial assistance of Rs. 5000/- each to 3080 schools covering all 16 districts of the state, for functioning of eco- clubs. MyGov Manipur website as launched for the government to engage IT with the citizens.
Photo: Deepak Oinam
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