Imphal–Guwahati Bus Service to Resume Shortly

Imphal, August 8: Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand has announced that the Imphal–Guwahati bus service will resume shortly, with National Highways to be opened to people from all communities. Speaking during his visit to the Kangpokpi Autonomous District Council office, the Chief Minister said adequate security arrangements would be made to ensure smooth operation of the service. He said the move would strengthen connectivity and rebuild trust. Khemchand also inaugurated a dialysis unit and blood storage facility at Kangpokpi, besides launching an Observation Home and distributing Mission Vatsalya assistance. He appealed to all communities to work together for a peaceful and united Manipur.

Demographic Seminar Recommends Census Postponement

Imphal, August 8: A two-day seminar on the “Demographic Profile of Manipur” concluded with a resolution recommending postponement of the Census exercise in the state until the National Register of Citizens is updated. The State Population Commission is expected to submit the resolution to the State Government. Leaders of various civil society organisations, including JFD and 14 CSOs of Kangleipak, participated in the consultation. However, disagreements emerged over a government proposal to constitute a committee of stakeholders and subject experts. Participants argued that, with Census house-listing scheduled shortly, an immediate decision on postponement was necessary. Meanwhile, the 14 CSOs of Kangleipak withdrew their proposed statewide shutdown on August 9.

YAS Minister Assures Action on Departmental Irregularities

Imphal, August 8: Youth Affairs and Sports Minister Govindas Konthoujam has assured that alleged irregularities and shortcomings within the department will be addressed at the earliest. He was speaking during the launch of a two-day selection trial at Wahengbam Leikai Multi-Purpose Hall for the 3rd Manipur Yogasana Championship and selection of athletes for the 38th National Yogasana Championship in October. Minister Govindas highlighted the importance of yoga for physical and mental well-being and encouraged people to practise it regularly. He also said the department would explore providing Rs 10 lakh in financial assistance to the Manipur Yoga Society to promote yoga and develop talented athletes in the state.

Youth Affairs and Sports Offices Remain Locked

Imphal, August 8: The Directorate of Youth Affairs and Sports in Manipur remains locked as employees continue their protest against the government’s appointment of an MCS officer as Joint Director. Members of the Youth Affairs and Sports Employees’ Association have also locked district YAS offices in several districts. The agitation follows a July 17 notification announcing the appointment, with the officer joining the department on August 6. The association alleges that the appointment violates the department’s Recruitment Rules, claiming the Joint Director’s post should be filled through promotion from departmental cadres. The employees had earlier protested on July 29 and launched another agitation on August 6 at the YAS Complex in Khuman Lampak.

Home Guard Employees Threaten Hunger Strike

Imphal, August 8: The Manipur Home Guard Employee Welfare Association has warned of a hunger strike and other democratic forms of agitation from September 30 if the State Government fails to address its pending demands. Association President Yanglem Mangi said the demands include preparation of a seniority list of Home Guard personnel, payment of ration money and enhancement of dearness allowance in accordance with Supreme Court and High Court directions. The association had submitted an ultimatum to the government on July 17, setting September 21 as the deadline for action. Mangi said no concrete steps have been taken so far and warned that further agitation would follow.

Jiribam Shutdown Disrupts Normal Life

Jiribam, August 8: A total shutdown called by various civil society organisations and Meira Paibi groups severely disrupted normal life in Jiribam district. The agitation followed the arrest of cadres of the Pambei-led UNLF-PLA, with the organisations demanding unconditional release of the arrested cadre. Bandh supporters blocked roads at Babupara Lamlong from early morning, disrupting vehicular movement. Schools, colleges, banks, government offices, markets and shops remained closed across the district. The indefinite shutdown was called after three individuals were reportedly taken into custody for questioning by Jiribam Police, with one subsequently arrested. The organisations have demanded the immediate and unconditional release of the arrested person.

14-Year-Old Boxer Missing from Bishnupur

Imphal, August 8: A 14-year-old boy undergoing boxing training at SAI Utlou has gone missing after leaving home for training on Friday. Huidrom Bidyananda, son of Huidrom Sadananda and Huidrom Ongbi Malemnganbi Leima of Isok Awang Leikai, Bishnupur district, did not return home after leaving for his regular training session. His mother said the family contacted relatives and friends but could not trace him. A missing report has also been filed at the police station. Bidyananda was reportedly wearing a black tracksuit when he left home. The family has appealed to authorities and the public to assist in locating the missing boy.

Stolen Activa Recovered, One Arrested

Imphal, August 8: A Honda Activa reportedly stolen from the parking area of Khuman Lampak Sports Complex during the recent Durand Cup match has been recovered, with one person arrested in connection with the case. The scooter, bearing registration number MN 01AQ 3922, was reported stolen on August 3 near the Boxing Arena. The Commando Imphal West team arrested 27-year-old Nawaz Khan of Lilong Yangbi Leikai, Thoubal district, along with another Activa. Based on information obtained during questioning, police recovered the stolen scooter from the Lilong area on August 6. Police said efforts are underway to arrest another accused who remains absconding.

Manipur Weaver Receives National Handloom Award 2026

New Delhi, August 8: President Droupadi Murmu presented the National Handloom Award 2026 to Manipur weaver Takhellambam Rani Devi during the National Handloom Day observance in New Delhi on Friday. Rani Devi, from Kakching Khunou Awang Keithel Leikai, received the award in the Women Weavers Category for her craftsmanship in Shaphee Lanphee and Silk Innaphi. The award recognises her contribution to preserving and promoting Manipur’s traditional weaving heritage and indigenous textile craftsmanship. She was among 22 master artisans, designers and organisations honoured with the National Handloom Awards 2026, bringing national recognition to Manipur’s rich handloom tradition.

‘Marriage Bureau’ Theatre Production Staged in Imphal

Imphal, August 8: A major theatre production titled “Marriage Bureau”, presented by final-semester MA students of the Department of Theatre and Performance, Manipur University of Culture, was staged at JN Manipur Dance Academy. Manipur University of Culture Vice Chancellor Professor Paonam Gunindro, Controller of Examinations Angom Shijalembi Chanu, Registrar Laishram Radhakanta and prominent theatre personalities attended the programme. Professor Gunindro expressed appreciation for the students’ production and said the university’s permanent campus at Wakha in Imphal East is nearing completion. “Marriage Bureau” is an adaptation of a work by late Khundongbam Brojendro, with Loitongbam Paringamba serving as Director and Scenographer.

Manipuri Sahitya Parishad Announces 2026 Awards

Imphal, August 8: Manipuri Sahitya Parishad has announced the recipients of its 2026 annual awards, recognising contributions to art and culture. The announcement was made at the Parishad’s office in Paona Bazar by Upadhi Committee Chairman and retired IAS officer Kangjam Radhakumar. The awards will be presented in three categories: Manipuri Sahitya Parishad Upadhi, Cash Award and Cash Award for Literary Works. The presentation ceremony will be held on August 23 at JN Manipur Dance Academy during the Parishad’s 91st annual meeting. A total of 17 individuals will receive the Upadhi, while five will receive the Cash Award and nine others will be honoured for literary works.

Y. Antas Khan Appointed Waqf Board Chairman

Imphal, August 8: Former Lilong MLA Y. Antas Khan has been appointed Chairman of the 8th Manipur Waqf Board. Speaking to the media after assuming office, Antas Khan expressed gratitude to Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand for the confidence placed in him. He said the Waqf Board would focus on protecting Waqf properties and undertaking genuine welfare initiatives in the interest of the Meitei-Pangal community. The new chairman said the Board would work towards fulfilling its responsibilities and safeguarding Waqf assets while supporting welfare-oriented activities. His appointment marks the beginning of the eighth term of the Manipur Waqf Board.

Thoubal College Observes 63rd Foundation Day

Thoubal, August 8: Thoubal College observed its 63rd Foundation Day at the college’s Multipurpose Hall. The programme was jointly organised by the Teachers’ Association and Students’ Union and attended by Principal Dr. Asem Nabachandra, Teachers’ Association President N. Ibobi and IQAC Coordinator L. Akendrajit. As part of the celebrations, 22 subject toppers from the BA and B.Sc. sixth-semester examinations were honoured for their academic achievements. The programme highlighted the institution’s contribution to higher education and recognised students who excelled in their respective subjects. Faculty members and students participated in the foundation day celebrations, marking another milestone in the history of the college.

Modern College Celebrates 64th Foundation Day

Imphal, August 8: Modern College, Porompat, celebrated its 64th Foundation Day with a programme honouring students who excelled in undergraduate examinations in Science and Arts streams. The event was jointly organised by the College IQAC, College Teachers’ Association and College Merit Award Trust. Speaking at the programme, Director of University and Higher Education L. Radhakanta stressed the importance of valuing time and maintaining commitment and dedication to achieve success. Participants also paid floral tribute to photographs of late members and patrons of the college. The celebration brought together students, teachers and other members of the institution to mark the college’s 64 years of academic service.

Over 2,500 Join Run for Unity in Churachandpur

Churachandpur, August 8: Churachandpur District Police organised a 10-kilometre ‘Run for Unity’ under the theme “One Step, One Goal, One United Community.” More than 2,500 men and women participated in the event, which was flagged off by Deputy Commissioner Krishna Kumar from Forest Gate, Tuibong. The run passed through Tiddim Road and Tipaimukh Road before concluding at Peace Ground, Tuibong. Participants ranged in age from 13 to 63 years. Cash prizes, medals and certificates were presented to the top three finishers in both men’s and women’s categories. Additional SP (Operations) Sabastine Khongsai said the event aimed to promote unity and encourage young people to lead healthy lives and stay away from drugs.

Tangmai Festival Celebrates Cultural Diversity

Churachandpur, August 8: The ninth edition of the Tangmai Festival, also known as the Cucumber Festival, was held at YPA Hall, Hiangtam Lamka, under the aegis of the Young Paite Association General Headquarters. Several political leaders, including Lunglei North MLA V. Malsawmtluanga, Saikot MLA Paulienlal Haokip, Churachandpur MLA L.M. Khaute and Singat MLA Chinlunthang Zou, attended the event. The festival featured traditional dance performances by Mizo, Hmar, Vaiphei, Thadou-Kuki and Zou communities. Civil society and student organisation leaders also participated. Among the highlights of the event was the performance by nine-year-old singer and Bal Shakti Puraskar awardee Esther Hnamte from Mizoram, who presented several musical numbers.

Manipur Judicial Academy Holds ‘Nyay Shruti’ Training

Imphal, August 8: The Manipur Judicial Academy conducted a training programme on “Nyay Shruti” at the High Court auditorium in Mantripukhri. Director of the Manipur Judicial Academy, Justice Golmei Gaiphulshillu Kabui, participated in the programme. The training focused on enhancing the technological competence of judicial officers and staff of District Courts. Participants were trained in the effective use of digital tools aimed at improving efficiency in justice delivery. The programme forms part of efforts to strengthen technological capabilities within the judiciary and promote effective use of digital platforms in court-related work. The training also aimed to equip judicial personnel with skills needed to adapt to technology-driven judicial processes.

Students Sensitised on Sangai Conservation

Imphal, August 8: A one-day sensitisation programme on ‘Sangai Day’ was organised for students at Bethel School, Nambol Chingmang, to raise awareness about conservation of the endangered Sangai deer. Sangai First Foundation Manipur President Dr. Khangembam Shamungou, retired DM College of Science professor Dr. Kh. Rajmani and SFF Manipur Vice President K. Jugeshor attended the programme and interacted with students. A spot written quiz on “Sangai and Environmental Conservation” was also conducted, with around 50 students participating. Seven students secured the top positions and will receive prizes during the 33rd Sangai Day celebration on December 10. The programme highlighted the importance of protecting Manipur’s state animal.

IMD Forecasts Heavy Rainfall Across Manipur

Imphal, August 8: The India Meteorological Department, Imphal Centre, has forecast widespread heavy rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms across most parts of Manipur on Saturday and Sunday. A Yellow Warning has been issued for parts of Tamenglong and Noney districts on Saturday, where heavy rain and thunderstorms are likely. Widespread rainfall is expected in Tamenglong, Ukhrul, Jiribam, Noney and Pherzawl, while isolated rainfall is forecast in Senapati, Kangpokpi, Imphal West, Imphal East, Kamjong, Bishnupur, Thoubal, Kakching, Tengnoupal, Chandel and Churachandpur. The IMD has forecast isolated rainfall in parts of the state on Sunday. ICAR Agrometeorological Unit, Lamphelpat, reported 0.3 mm rainfall over the past 24 hours.

Ariha Pangambam Makes History with Asian Aerobic Gold

Imphal August 8: Manipur’s Ariha Pangambam has created history by becoming the first Indian athlete to win a gold medal at the Asian Aerobic Gymnastics Championship. Competing in the Senior Women’s Individual event at the 10th Asian Aerobic Gymnastics Championship 2026 in Tagaytay City, Ariha secured the gold medal with a score of 19.100. Thailand’s Kanokpit Mali won silver, while Japan’s Mahiro Kishibe took bronze. Ariha, daughter of Pangambam Akhelo and Pangambam Ongbi Chaoba Devi of Kongba Uchekkon Moriba Makha in Imphal East, has brought pride to Manipur and India with the achievement. Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand, former Chief Minister N. Biren and others congratulated her.

AMFA Conducts Fitness Test for Football Referees

Imphal, August 8: The All Manipur Football Association conducted its Annual Fitness Test and an awareness session on the New Laws of the Game 2026–27 for Level 8 to Level 6 football referees in Manipur. A total of 80 referees, including 68 men and 12 women, participated in the programme organised in accordance with All India Football Federation instructions. The fitness test was held at the SAI NERC football ground in Takyel, while the theory session took place at Lamlong Thongkhong artificial turf. AMFA Head of Referees Lanthoiba Pheiroijam said the programme aimed to improve referees’ performance and ensure a clear understanding of the latest changes to the Laws of the Game.