Imphal Times

15/01/2025

Kuki militants collect over Rs. 10 crore monthly despite rehabilitation packages
Special Correspondent
Imphal, Jan 15:

Amid ongoing unrest in Manipur, an insider source has revealed that armed Kuki militant groups under suspension of operation (SoO) agreements are allegedly collecting over Rs. 10 crore monthly in illegal taxes. This is despite the payment of rehabilitation packages, including monetary benefits, aimed at reducing militant activities in the region.
The illegal tax collection reportedly involves various factions of Kuki militants, with the amounts allegedly levied by each group being Rs. 20,000 for KNF(N), Rs. 50,000 for KNF(S), Rs. 15,000 for KLA, Rs. 15,000 for KRA, Rs. 50,000 for KRF, Rs. 40,000 for KNF(Z), Rs. 20,000 for KRA(U), and Rs. 60,000 for KNF(MC).

Read More

Amid ongoing unrest in Manipur, an insider source has revealed that armed Kuki militant groups under suspension of operation (SoO) agreements are allegedly collecting over Rs. 10 crore monthly in illegal taxes. This is despite the payment of rehabilitation packages, including monetary benefits, aime...

15/01/2025

Chief Minister launches additional flights of Alliance Air
IT News
Imphal, Jan 15:

Chief Minister N. Biren Singh today launched the additional flight service of Alliance Air viz. “Imphal- Guwahati- Imphal, Imphal-Kolkata-Imphal, Imphal-Dimapur-Imphal” under Viability Gap Funding. The launching function was held at the conference hall of Imphal International Airport, in the presence of Union Minister of Civil Aviation Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu through video conferencing.
Speaking at the occasion, N. Biren Singh expressed his gratitude to the Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Minister of Civil Aviation Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu for providing additional flight service of Alliance Air in Manipur. He stated that Manipur has been passing through a difficult time and the people are unable to use the highways for travel because of the crisis. Lakhs of people of the State are travelling by air and the high cost of air tickets has significantly affected the common people of the State, he added. The Chief Minister urged the Civil Aviation Ministry to constitute a team to examine the pricing of air tickets. The Chief Minister also requested the provision of more frequent flights directly connecting Imphal with major cities such as Kolkata, New Delhi, and Bangalore. N. Biren Singh further appreciated the CEO of Alliance Air for taking up such initiative during this difficult period.

Read More

Chief Minister N. Biren Singh today launched the additional flight service of Alliance Air viz. “Imphal- Guwahati- Imphal, Imphal-Kolkata-Imphal, Imphal-Dimapur-Imphal” under Viability Gap Funding. The launching function was held at the conference hall of Imphal International Airport

15/01/2025

Kuki militants drop bombs using drone near security camp
IT News
Imphal, Jan 15:

Kuki militants allegedly launched an attack using a drone to drop two bombs near the 5 Manipur Rifles (MR) camp under Lamsang police station in Imphal West district on Tuesday night.
According to reports, the drone, equipped with explosives, dropped the bombs in quick succession near the security post at around 9:30 pm yesterday. One bomb exploded near the bunker of the camp, while another detonated at Langeibung Bridge, close to the security post, at around 9:28 pm of the same evening.

Read More

Kuki militants allegedly launched an attack using a drone to drop two bombs near the 5 Manipur Rifles (MR) camp under Lamsang police station in Imphal West district on Tuesday night.

15/01/2025

Horticulture department faces audit scrutiny over Rs. 3.37 crore procurement without open tender
IT News
Imphal, Jan 15:

The Horticulture and Soil Conservation Department is under audit scrutiny for procuring goods worth Rs. 3.37 crore without following mandatory open tender procedures. These purchases were made under the Model Horticulture Centre project implemented at Ngarumphung, Tupul, and Haipi.
According to the audit report, the project was sanctioned on March 16, 2016, under North Eastern Council (NEC) funding, with an estimated cost of Rs. 12 crore and a three-year completion target. The project aimed to promote the sustainable use of natural resources, enhance productivity, and increase rural farmers’ incomes.
Audit findings revealed that goods worth Rs. 3.73 crore were procured from 10 suppliers between November 2016 and April 2019 without adhering to open tender procedures, in violation of General Financial Rules (GFR). The GFR requires e-tendering for purchases exceeding Rs. 20 lakh. Additionally, no purchases were made through the Government e-Marketplace (GeM) portal, despite the requirement for procurement above Rs. 25,000, as outlined in the Office Memorandum dated September 27, 2017.

Read More

The Horticulture and Soil Conservation Department is under audit scrutiny for procuring goods worth Rs. 3.37 crore without following mandatory open tender procedures. These purchases were made under the Model Horticulture Centre project implemented at Ngarumphung, Tupul, and Haipi.

15/01/2025

NSCN-IM refutes Manipur Police’s claims on Molham Kuki village, demands accountability
Special Correspondent
Ukhrul, Jan 15:

The National Socialist Council of Nagalim (NSCN) has strongly refuted the Manipur Police’s recent claims regarding Molham Kuki village. According to a statement issued by the Ministry of Information and Publicity of the Government of the People’s Republic of Nagalim (GPRN), the NSCN -IM asserted that the village is a hub for Kuki militants rather than a base for Border Security Force (BSF) companies, as suggested by the police.

Read More

The National Socialist Council of Nagalim (NSCN) has strongly refuted the Manipur Police’s recent claims regarding Molham Kuki village. According to a statement issued by the Ministry of Information and Publicity of the Government of the People’s Republic of Nagalim (GPRN), the NSCN -IM asserted...

15/01/2025

The illusion of Unity in Manipur

Chief Minister N. Biren Singh’s recent statements about the preservation and protection of Manipur’s integrity have struck a chord with his followers, presenting an image of steadfast leadership. His assertion that as long as he lives, no one will dare to balkanize Manipur is indeed a powerful proclamation. Moreover, his declaration that the BJP is the savior of Manipur seeks to reinforce his party’s stance as the protector of the state’s unity. However, these strong words must be juxtaposed with the stark reality of the ground situation.
Manipur today is deeply divided, both geographically and socially. The ethnic tensions that have engulfed the state have created an almost insurmountable rift between the Kuki-Zo and Meitei communities. Kuki-Zo people cannot safely enter Imphal and other Meitei-dominated districts, while Meiteis are barred from entering Churachandpur, Tengnoupal, and Kangpokpi districts. This bifurcation of territories raises a fundamental question: How can one claim that Manipur remains united when its people are separated by fear and hostility?
The current state of division exposes the fragility of Manipur’s unity. Internal displacement remains one of the most glaring manifestations of this divide. Thousands of internally displaced persons (IDPs) from both communities are yet to return to their homes, forced to live in relief camps with little hope of rehabilitation. The state and central governments’ failure to address their plight effectively raises doubts about their commitment to resolving the crisis.

Read More

Chief Minister N. Biren Singh’s recent statements about the preservation and protection of Manipur’s integrity have struck a chord with his followers,…

15/01/2025

Gaan-Ngai 2025: Celebrating Culture, Unity, and Identity in Delhi NCR
IT News
New Delhi, Jan 15:

The Rongmei Women Cultural Dance Troupe (RWCDT) Delhi NCR successfully celebrated Gaan-Ngai 2025, a vibrant festival showcasing the cultural heritage and identity of the Rongmei Naga community. Held on January 12, 2025, from 3:00 PM to 10:00 PM IST at the Nurses Residential Complex (Football Ground), Sri Niwaspuri, New Delhi – 110065, near Vinobapuri Metro Station (Pink Line), the event brought together members of the Rongmei community and friends from across Delhi NCR for an unforgettable celebration.
Under the theme “Our Festival, Our Identity,” the program highlighted the richness of Rongmei traditions through cultural activities and performances. The event commenced with Huay Kauhmei, featuring participants chanting “Ho-Ho-Ho” in a geometrical pattern, setting a lively tone. Cultural dances (Kit Laam, Siandaih Laam) and a dynamic cultural fashion show captivated the audience, while interactive activities like Dingrian Laam (song and dance) fostered togetherness. The celebration also featured musical performances by Pouh Lankhuingam (Napmu) John (Executive Member, RCPD), folk songs by D. Thongongthui (MD, United Builders India), and Pouh Dimkulung Pamei (Sr. Audit Officer, PDA (I&CA)). A patriotic Rongmei song by Pouh Huineiguang Rwangmei (Gen. Secy., RPD) added a stirring highlight.

Read More

The Rongmei Women Cultural Dance Troupe (RWCDT) Delhi NCR successfully celebrated Gaan-Ngai 2025, a vibrant festival showcasing the cultural heritage and identity of the Rongmei Naga community. Held on January 12, 2025, from 3:00 PM to 10:00 PM IST at the Nurses Residential Complex

15/01/2025

Two officers from Manipur honoured with Veteran Achievers’ Award on Army Day
IT News
Pune, Jan 15:

In a significant recognition of their contributions, two retired Army officers from Manipur were honored with the Veteran Achievers’ Award during the 77th Army Day celebrations at the BEG Centre in Pune. Presented by Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi, the award commemorates their exceptional service to nation-building, society, and fostering unity.
The awardees, Lt. Col. L. Manongba (Retd.) of the 11 Gorkha Rifles and Subedar Major (Honorary Lieutenant) P. Piju Mao (Retd.) of the 2nd Naga Regiment, are the sole recipients from North East India.
Lt. Col. Manongba has been pivotal in assisting ex-servicemen and their families, especially in remote areas of Manipur. His Wings of Hope Charitable Trust supports 60 orphaned children and provides livelihood programs for widows affected by Manipur’s recent unrest.
Subedar Major Piju Mao founded the Youth Upliftment & Empowerment Institute in Senapati District, training nearly 300 youths for recruitment into the Indian Army and CAPF. A third-generation soldier, his efforts have uplifted the community.
Their dedication exemplifies resilience and service, making them role models amid Manipur’s ongoing crisis and showcasing the enduring contributions of retired personnel to nation-building.

15/01/2025

DLO meeting held for 76th Republic Day celebration and others at Senapati
IT News
Senapati, Jan 15:

In view of the upcoming 76th Republic Day celebration 2025 and other programme such as visit of George Kurian, Minister of State for Minority Affairs and Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying, Meeyamgi Numit, PM JANMAN Conference and Observation of National Road Safety Month, the Additional District Magistrate of Senapati Rang David Kung, MCS chaired the District Level Officers meeting today at DC Conference Hall, Senapati.
During the meeting, discussions were made along with work allocations to be taken up by respective DLO for the 76th Republic Day celebration. For better celebration, a cleanliness drive will be carried on 20th of January. The ADM, Senapati further urged the DLOs for active participation and cooperation in making Republic Day celebration a grand success.

Read More

In view of the upcoming 76th Republic Day celebration 2025 and other programme such as visit of George Kurian, Minister of State for Minority Affairs and Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying, Meeyamgi Numit, PM JANMAN Conference and Observation of National Road Safety Month, the Additional Distric...

15/01/2025

DC flags off National Road Safety Month for Bishnupur
IT News
Bishnupur, Jan 15:

Deputy Commissioner, Bishnupur, Lourembam Bikram, today flagged off the 36th National Road Safety Month, 2025 under the theme “Parvaah (Care)” for the district at the Mini Secretariat Complex, Bishnupur.
The event was organized by the District Transport Office, Bishnupur, in collaboration with the SP Office Bishnupur, Zonal Education Office Bishnupur, and Chief Medical Office Bishnupur, under the supervision of the District Administration, Bishnupur.
The observation will feature a variety of activities aimed at promoting road safety, including a road safety enforcement drive, school road safety awareness campaigns, quiz and drawing competition, public awareness programs in public places, poster campaign, and awareness about the hit-and-run motor compensation scheme.

Read More

Deputy Commissioner, Bishnupur, Lourembam Bikram, today flagged off the 36th National Road Safety Month, 2025 under the theme “Parvaah (Care)” for the district at the Mini Secretariat Complex, Bishnupur.

14/01/2025

Samjetsabam Rabi, the Organic U-Morok/ King Chili Pioneer of Phayeng
IT News
Imphal, Jan 14:

Samjetsabam Rabi, a determined and visionary farmer from Phayeng, has carved a remarkable niche for himself in the agricultural world with his organic U-Morok (King Chili). His journey from an ambitious individual battling discouragement to becoming a respected name in the industry is an inspiring testament to hard work, innovation, and resilience. Today, his U-Morok is known by the brand name Phayeng among people and is in high demand across the region and even exported to cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Uttar Pradesh.
Samjetsabam Rabi’s farming career began in 2014 when he made the bold decision to venture into U-Morok cultivation. At the time, the people of Phayeng were primarily involved in piggery, an industry linked to the production of alcohol, a business Samjetsabam Rabi was not inclined to pursue. Initially, he faced the challenge of convincing others of the value of farming, as U-Morok was not yet a popular crop in the area. “When I decided to start U-Morok farming, many people discouraged me and even made fun of my decision. But I believed in its potential,” he shared.

Read More

Samjetsabam Rabi, a determined and visionary farmer from Phayeng, has carved a remarkable niche for himself in the agricultural world with his organic U-Morok (King Chili). His journey from an ambitious individual battling discouragement to becoming a respected name in the industry is an inspiring t...

14/01/2025

Why did people vote for them (Congress MPs)?- Chief Minister N. Biren
IT News
Imphal, Jan 14:

Chief Minister N. Biren Singh, during the Sambhidhan Gaurav Abhiyan event held today at Thambal Shanglen, the BJP Head Office, has expressed sharp criticism of Manipur’s two MPs for their alleged silence on crucial issues like the Free Movement Regime (FMR), border fencing, and illegal immigration. “They do not speak up in Parliament. Why did people vote for them? Why did people give them their mandate? The people should answer this,” the Chief Minister said, urging greater accountability from elected representatives.
CM Biren also called on BJP karyakartas to take a stronger stand. “Our karyakartas are too scared. Those who are educated and patriotic support BJP, but they must speak up and advocate for the issues that matter,” he emphasized.

Read More

Chief Minister N. Biren Singh, during the Sambhidhan Gaurav Abhiyan event held today at Thambal Shanglen, the BJP Head Office, has expressed sharp criticism of Manipur’s two MPs for their alleged silence on crucial issues like the Free Movement Regime (FMR), border fencing, and illegal immigration

14/01/2025

The Govt needs cooperation and support of the Armed Forces Veterans - CM
IT News
Imphal, Jan 14:

The government needs cooperation and support of the Armed Forces Veterans in improving the law-and-order situation in the State, Chief Minister N. Biren Singh said today, adding that all positive suggestions and advices from the veterans towards restoring peace and normalcy in the State are also welcomed.
The Chief Minister was addressing veterans and their families at the observance of the 9th Armed Forces Veterans’ Day-2025, held at the 1st Battalion, Manipur Rifles, Banquet Hall, Imphal. The observance programme was organised by the Government of Manipur.

Read More

The government needs cooperation and support of the Armed Forces Veterans in improving the law-and-order situation in the State, Chief Minister N. Biren Singh said today, adding that all positive suggestions and advices from the veterans towards restoring peace and normalcy in the State are also wel...

14/01/2025

MPCC criticizes Minister Govindas over remarks on crisis
IT News
Imphal, Jan 14:

The Manipur Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) today strongly criticized Minister Govindas Konthoujam over his recent remark at the Gaan Ngai Festival in Chinikon village, Kangpokpi district, where he accused the Congress party of wanting to prolong the ongoing crisis in Manipur.
Responding to the minister’s statement, MPCC Vice President Hareshwar Goshwami, during a press briefing at Congress Bhavan in Imphal, refuted the claim and alleged that it was the BJP government, both at the state and central levels, that was failing to find a solution to the crisis.

Read More

The Manipur Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) today strongly criticized Minister Govindas Konthoujam over his recent remark at the Gaan Ngai Festival in Chinikon village, Kangpokpi district, where he accused the Congress party of wanting to prolong the ongoing crisis in Manipur.

14/01/2025

Strict guidelines announced for College Students Union Election 2024-25
IT News
Imphal, Jan 14:

The College Students Union has announced guidelines for the upcoming election scheduled for January 16. According to a statement by the Monitoring Cell Convenor, Moirangthem Lakman, strict measures will be enforced to ensure a fair and peaceful election process.
It was reported that only registered college students would be allowed to participate in campaigning, with non-students prohibited from conducting election-related activities both within and outside the college campus.
Candidates were instructed to limit their promotional materials to a single A3-sized poster displayed on the college campus notice board. The use of additional materials such as cards, posters, or exam routines for campaigning was strictly prohibited. Furthermore, activities like voter transportation, distributing money or food, and conducting open debates or discussions beyond the prescribed rules were banned.
The Convenor revealed that the election’s code of conduct would be issued from the IPSA office in Keishampat. Officials emphasized that voters must cast their votes independently without outside influence, and night campaigns were forbidden both inside and outside the college campus. Campaigning within the campus would only be permitted under official approval.
It was further stated that any candidate found violating these rules would face disqualification or be compelled to resign. The Monitoring Cell for the College Students Union Election 2024-25, along with its members, would oversee the election process. Only authorized individuals, including candidates, inner agents, proposers, seconders, and counting agents, would be allowed to participate in election-related activities.
The statement concluded with a reminder that candidates and their supporters must adhere strictly to the code of conduct to ensure the election’s integrity, with stringent actions to be taken against violators.

14/01/2025

The Silent Betrayal: Manipur Government’s Inaction on QNet Fraud

The inaction of the Manipur government in addressing the massive fraud perpetrated by QNet, a controversial network marketing company, is both alarming and deeply disappointing. Over 2,000 victims have reportedly been duped, yet the government has remained silent, leaving those affected in financial despair and emotional turmoil. This inaction not only reflects poorly on governance but also raises troubling questions about accountability.
The Manipur QNet Fraud Victims’ Welfare Association has worked tirelessly to bring this issue to light. Their efforts included a press conference in mid-2023, exposing the fraudulent practices of QNet and its associates. Victims have submitted written complaints to the Cyber Crime Department and the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), backed by substantial evidence such as chat transcripts, payment receipts, and names of alleged fraudsters. Yet, these efforts have yielded no meaningful response from the authorities.

Read More

The inaction of the Manipur government in addressing the massive fraud perpetrated by QNet, a controversial network marketing company, is both alarming…

14/01/2025

Normal life disrupted due to 36th Drivers’ Day observation
IT News
Imphal, Jan 14:

Normal life in Manipur was severely disrupted as hundreds of commuters faced significant hardships due to the observance of the 36th Drivers’ Day at the Manipur Press Club on Tuesday. The event led to a partial road blockade, effectively cutting off the state from the rest of the country.
The day-long commemoration saw drivers across the state participating by offering floral tributes to the photos of their colleagues who had lost their lives while serving the public. The observance honored the sacrifices of the drivers, with special recognition for elderly drivers and the families of those who died in the line of duty, who were presented with monetary assistance and mementos.

Read More

Normal life in Manipur was severely disrupted as hundreds of commuters faced significant hardships due to the observance of the 36th Drivers’ Day at the Manipur Press Club on Tuesday. The event led to a partial road blockade, effectively cutting off the state from the rest of the country.

14/01/2025

RIMS Hospital conducts first independent open heart surgery
IT News
Imphal, Jan 14:

The Regional Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS) Hospital, Imphal, proudly announces the successful completion of its first independent open-heart surgery. A 15-year-old girl, who underwent the procedure at the Regional Paediatric Cardiothoracic Centre, was successfully discharged on January 13, 2025.
The surgery was funded under the Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram (RBSK) program of the National Health Mission (NHM), Manipur. The surgical team was led by Surgeon Prof. Th. Chito and Anaesthetist Prof. L. Pradip. The procedure was conducted at the state-of-the-art Regional Paediatric Cardiothoracic Centre at RIMS, which is equipped with advanced facilities to handle complex cardiac cases.
Importantly, the patient incurred no out-of-pocket expenses, as the entire treatment was fully funded by the RBSK program.

Read More

The Regional Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS) Hospital, Imphal, announces the successful completion of its first independent open-heart surgery. A 15-year-old girl, who underwent the procedure at the Regional Paediatric Cardiothoracic Centre, was successfully discharged on January 13, 2025