Synopsis
On January 20, 2023, Manipur CM N. Biren Singh highlights the significance of peaceful coexistence among indigenous communities in the state amid ethnic tensions during the AMSA sports meet. He calls for unity to restore peace and addresses issues like unemployment and illegal migration.Key Takeaways
- Importance of Peaceful Coexistence: Emphasis on unity among indigenous communities in Manipur.
- Historical Significance: Remembrance of ancestral cooperation against external threats.
- Government's Stance: Assurance that the government does not oppose any community.
- War on Drugs Campaign: Initiatives to combat youth drug issues.
- Development Initiatives: Commitment to enhancing sports and employment opportunities.
Imphal, Jan 20 (NationPress) In light of the ongoing ethnic strife in Manipur, Chief Minister N. Biren Singh emphasized the importance of all indigenous communities coexisting peacefully and fostering mutual understanding. "We must recall how our ancestors united to protect our homeland from external threats," he stated during the inaugural ceremony of the Diamond Jubilee cum 8th Biennial Sports Meet organized by the All Maring Sports Association (AMSA).
Biren Singh highlighted that diverse indigenous groups have cohabited and defended the land for centuries, with Manipur comprising 34 to 35 indigenous communities.
He reminisced about the poison used on the Arambai weapon, which was supplied by the Maring community during the Seven Years Devastation Period to repel the Burmese (Awa).
Such historical narratives are preserved in local folktales, he noted.
The event took place at the AMSA Sports Complex located in Laiching Kangshang Village, Tengnoupal District.
Addressing the current unprecedented ethnic turmoil, the Chief Minister asserted that the state government is not against any community.
He expressed concerns regarding illegal immigrants and the rise of unrecognized villages in border regions.
The Chief Minister further urged larger communities to assist minorities for the overall progress of the state.
He called on the public to unite in the pursuit of restoring peace and normalcy to accelerate the state's development.
Singh noted that many youths in Manipur, facing unemployment, are turning to drugs.
To counter this, the “War on Drugs Campaign” was initiated to protect the youth, who are vital for future generations, and he commended the residents of the Laiching Kangshang Village for cultivating vegetables instead of engaging in illegal poppy farming.
In response to a memorandum presented to him, the Chief Minister announced plans to construct a sports complex with an Indoor Gym at the event location, with an estimated budget of Rs 2.5 crore, to be allocated in the following budget.
He also mentioned that the government would consider establishing an Employment Exchange office branch in the Machi Sub-Division.
Water Resources Minister Awangbow Newmai praised the courage and valor of the Maring community in his address.
He acknowledged the enthusiasm of the Maring youth in sports and stressed the importance of nurturing talented individuals to achieve success in athletics.
Newmai also commended the Chief Minister's initiatives to bring governance closer to the people through the ‘Go to Hills’ and ‘Go to Village’ Missions.
