Speaker Urges Wider Reach of Government Welfare Schemes

Imphal, October 8: Manipur Legislative Assembly Speaker Thokchom Satyabrata has urged authorities to ensure that Central and State welfare schemes reach genuine beneficiaries. He was speaking at the Seva Sankalp Abhiyan organised by the Imphal East District Administration at Naharol Sintha Kanglup Community Hall in Wangkhei Keithel Ashangbi. Satyabrata also appealed to the public to make greater use of available welfare schemes, saying lack of awareness has resulted in several benefits remaining unused. He stressed that development in Manipur is essential to achieving the goal of a Viksit Bharat and called for stronger efforts to ensure that welfare programmes reach their intended beneficiaries.

LJP Manipur Calls for Collective Approach to State Crisis

Imphal, October 8: Lok Janashakti Party (LJP) Ram Vilas Manipur president Khoirom Deepu has criticised political parties for allegedly targeting one another ahead of the elections while overlooking the continuing crisis in Manipur. Speaking at the sixth death anniversary observance of party founder Ram Vilas Paswan at the party office in Keishampat, Deepu urged political leaders to refrain from making irresponsible statements for political gains. He called for a collective approach towards finding a solution to the crisis, which he said is approaching four years. Party members paid floral tributes to Paswan and observed a two-minute silence in his memory during the programme.

Suspected Drug Network Kingpin Brought to Imphal

Imphal, October 8: Police have brought suspected drug network kingpin Nongthombam Jamesjit alias Thoi to Imphal after arresting him in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, in connection with a cough syrup smuggling case. Jamesjit, proprietor of Kangla Drugs and Surgical Pharmacy at Naoremthong Bazar, was arrested jointly by Porompat Police and Gujarat Police. Police suspect him of leading a network involved in smuggling CHOCO Plus cough syrup. The case followed the arrest of three persons on October 4. During the investigation, security personnel recovered 8,320 bottles of the cough syrup from Oinam Thingel riverbank. A court granted Jamesjit four days’ transit remand, after which he was brought to Imphal for further investigation.

Man Arrested With 785 Grams of Suspected Brown Sugar

Churachandpur, October 8: Churachandpur District Police have arrested a man and recovered 785 grams of suspected brown sugar from his possession. The accused has been identified as 35-year-old Ngamkhojang Kipgen, son of Jangmang Kipgen. Police said he is originally from Tuidam village and is currently residing at Lhangnem village in Churachandpur district. The arrest was made at Misao Lhahvom village during an operation. Police recovered 60 soap capsules containing the suspected brown sugar from his possession. A Pulsar motorcycle was also seized during the operation. The accused has been taken into custody and further investigation is underway into the source and intended destination of the suspected contraband.

Wangoi Residents Defend Agitation Over CHC Staff Shortage

Imphal, October 8: Residents of Wangoi and surrounding areas have said their agitation over the Wangoi Community Health Centre is not politically motivated but aimed at improving healthcare services for people from four districts. Young Development Union Club president L. Achouba said protests began after repeated memorandums seeking additional doctors allegedly failed to bring a response. He claimed the CHC continues to face shortages of doctors for general ailments and emergencies. The group has demanded additional Medical Officers and specialists, including an anaesthetist. Achouba also alleged that Wangoi MLA Kh. Loken blocked protesters and refused to receive their memorandum. He warned that the agitation would continue and the OPD could be shut if the demands remain unaddressed.

Locals Raise Alarm Over Alleged Illegal Stone Crushers

Imphal, October 8: Locals have raised concerns over alleged illegal stone-crushing units operating along the Sagollok River, claiming that the units pose serious health and environmental risks. During an inspection at Ushingsapokpi Teramakhong, representatives of Moidangpok to New Keithelmanbi Apunba Chaokhat Thourang Lup alleged that several units previously shut down by authorities have resumed operations. The group also claimed the units are polluting the river and have constructed a bridge across it. President Th. Amumacha said repeated appeals to authorities had failed to bring action. The group has demanded closure of the units by October 11 and warned of agitation if action is not taken.

Manipur Joins National Launch of JOSH Teams for TB Elimination

Imphal, October 8: Manipur joined the nationwide launch of JOSH Teams under the TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyan at Classic Grande, Chingmeirong. Rajya Sabha MP A. Sharda urged people not to stigmatise tuberculosis patients or hide cases, stressing that TB is curable when detected and treated in time. She said young people joining JOSH Teams can play an important role in efforts to eliminate TB and called for collective participation in forming the teams across Manipur. Officials associated with TB Mukt Villages in Uchiwa, Imphal West, and Langmeithel, Thoubal, were also felicitated during the programme. The initiative seeks to strengthen community participation in TB detection, treatment and awareness.

Churachandpur Launches JOSH Teams Under TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyan

Churachandpur, October 8: The Churachandpur District Administration joined the nationwide launch of JOSH Teams under the TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyan. The programme was held at the DC Conference Hall in Tuibong alongside the national launch by Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda through virtual mode. Deputy Commissioner Krishna Kumar stressed the importance of early detection of tuberculosis, including among people without symptoms. Each block will have a 10-member JOSH Team led by the Sub-Divisional Officer, with NCC and MY Bharat volunteers participating. Food baskets were distributed to four TB patients, while Ni-Kshay Mitras were felicitated. A TB awareness pledge was also administered during the programme.

Dr Supriya Laifangbam Appointed JNIMS Director

Imphal, October 8: Professor of Microbiology and Dean of Academics at Jawaharlal Nehru Institute of Medical Sciences, Dr Supriya Laifangbam, has been appointed Director of JNIMS, Imphal. According to an order issued by the Under Secretary of the Department of Personnel, Government of Manipur, the appointment was made on the recommendation of the Selection Committee that met on October 5. The Governor of Manipur appointed Dr Supriya Laifangbam as Director on a regular basis for a period of three years. She will take charge of the institute’s administration and academic leadership under the terms of the appointment order.

World Sight Day Observed With Call for Regular Eye Check-Ups

Imphal, October 8: The Manipur Optometrist Association observed World Sight Day 2026 at Classic Hotel, North AOC, Imphal, under the theme “Love Your Eyes”. Association president Ksh. Ashakiran said World Sight Day is observed annually on the second Thursday of October to promote awareness about eye health and prevent avoidable vision problems. She urged people to take proper care of their eyes and undergo regular eye examinations at least once a year. Officials, intellectuals and students attended the programme. The association stressed the importance of timely eye care and awareness as part of efforts to protect vision and promote better eye health among the public.

Arms and Ammunition Recovered During Wakan Hill Search

Imphal, October 8: A combined team of Imphal East District Police and Central Security Forces recovered a cache of arms and ammunition during a search operation in the Wakan Hill Range under Sagolmang Police Station. The recovered items included one SLR, one country-made AK-47, one country-made MP-5, four country-made carbines and two pistols. Security personnel also recovered four country-made 12-bore single-barrel guns, 25 rounds of ammunition, one No. 36 HE grenade with detonator, one fragmentation grenade and three mortar shells. One empty mortar shell, radio-set chargers and other items were also recovered. Further investigation into the seizure is underway.

PREPAK Announces 49th Foundation Day Observance

Imphal, October 8: The proscribed PREPAK has announced that it will observe its 49th foundation day on October 9. In a statement, the outfit’s Interim Council Chairman Aheiba Angom said the occasion would include a revolutionary salute to its members who died in the course of the organisation’s activities and greetings to the people of Kangleipak and the wider WeSEA region. PREPAK reiterated its stated objective of restoring Kangleipak’s sovereignty and alleged that past administrative and constitutional policies contributed to divisions between the hills and valley. Referring to the continuing crisis in Manipur since 2023, the outfit called for examining what it described as the root causes of the conflict.

Jiribam Students Oppose Teacher Transfer Without Replacement

Jiribam, October 8: The Students’ Union of Jiribam Higher Secondary School, Babupara, has opposed the transfer of teacher Waikhom Robindro without a replacement. The union said the school is already facing a shortage of teachers, which is affecting completion of the syllabus. Games and Sports Secretary N. Sunil said the students’ body has given the authorities two days to cancel the transfer order and provide a replacement teacher. The union warned of intensified agitation if its demand is not addressed within the stipulated period. Students said ensuring adequate teaching staff is necessary to prevent further disruption to academic activities at the higher secondary school.

Thoithoi Adventure Park Marks Fifth Foundation Day

Imphal, October 8: Thoithoi Adventure Park at Takhellambam Konjin observed its fifth Foundation Day with a programme highlighting the need for collective efforts to restore peace in Manipur. Langthabal MLA Karam Shyam said lasting peace requires public participation and called for the surrender of illegal arms held by civilians. He said the government has made efforts and held talks to restore peace, but lasting peace cannot be achieved through force alone. Impact TV Editor-in-Chief Rupachandra Yumnam appreciated the park’s development and called for collective efforts beyond individual interests. Managing Director Kh. Inaoba said the park was inspired by his son’s idea and now provides recreation and employment opportunities, with plans for expansion.

PCCF Calls for Greater Public Role in Wildlife Protection

Imphal, October 8: Principal Chief Conservator of Forests Anurag Bajpai has urged the public to help protect wild animals and birds to preserve ecological balance. Speaking at the Golden Jubilee celebration of the Manipur Zoological Garden at Iroisemba, Bajpai stressed the need for greater kindness towards wildlife and proper maintenance of the zoo. He appreciated the contribution of zoo caretakers, including retired employees, for their service to the zoological garden. Bajpai also announced plans to introduce more animals to the facility. The Golden Jubilee programme highlighted the role of the zoological garden in wildlife conservation, public awareness and providing visitors with opportunities to learn about the state’s animal and bird species.

All Manipur K-Pop Competition Held at Manipur University

Imphal, October 8: King Sejong Institute Imphal organised an All Manipur K-Pop Dance and Song Competition at the Manipur University Auditorium in connection with Hangul Day. The event featured K-Pop performances along with stalls showcasing Korean food, traditional attire and books. King Sejong Institute operational personnel Dr Minjae Park said the growing interest in Korean culture, particularly among young people, could help strengthen cultural ties between India and South Korea. Manipur University School of Humanities Dean Professor Toijam Tampha, MUSU president Laishram Sanathoi and Head of the Department of Foreign Language, Korea, Dr A. Romita, attended the programme. The event highlighted growing cultural exchange between the two countries.

Air Force Day Observed With Call for Possible Air Force Base in Manipur

Imphal, October 8: Manipur Air Escort Commanding Officer Wing Commander Mutum Sandip has expressed hope that an Air Force base could be established in Manipur, which currently has no Air Force station apart from the NCC Air Wing. Speaking at the 94th Air Force Day observance at the NCC Campus inside DM University, Sandip highlighted the strength of the NCC Air Wing in Imphal. He said the wing has around 1,300 cadets against a sanctioned strength of 700. The NCC Air Wing operates two Virus aircraft in the state, with cadets receiving training in flying and aircraft maintenance. Thangmeiband MLA Kh. Joykishan and other officials attended the programme.

MASTEC Holds Technology Demonstration Programme

Imphal, October 8: The Manipur Science and Technology Council, MASTEC, Takyel, has launched a two-day Popularisation-cum-Demonstration of Technologies programme at its training hall. Science and Technology Secretary and MASTEC Member Secretary Kengoo Zuringla, Joint Secretary Kh. Liyaphy Rita and MASTEC Director Dr Kh. Rakesh attended the programme. Addressing participants, Kengoo Zuringla urged them to make effective use of the skills gained through the training and explore ways to turn them into livelihood opportunities. The programme aims to promote awareness and practical understanding of science and technology-based skills and encourage participants to apply the knowledge gained for income generation and other productive activities.

Solutions Week Promotes Assistive Technology for Persons With Visual Impairment

Imphal, October 8: The Welfare Association for the Blind Manipur, in partnership with EnAble India, observed Solutions Week 2026 under the #SeeAMillion programme at the WABM Parivartan Centre in Takyel. The programme focused on promoting awareness and use of assistive technologies for persons with visual impairment in education, employment and independent living. Around 200 participants from various institutions and organisations attended the event. The programme featured live demonstrations, experience-sharing sessions and exhibitions covering assistive technologies for accessible education, digital access, mobility, communication and independent living. EnAble India Project Coordinator Wahengbam Elizabeth and WABM President Yambem Brajamohan attended the programme.

Tribute Paid to Victims of Manipur Violence in Khangabok

Thoubal, October 8: The Joint Coordinating Committee Khangabok paid tribute to Meitei people who lost their lives during the violence in Manipur for the fourth time. The programme was held at Khangabok Lai Lamthokfam, where floral tributes were offered to photographs of the victims. Arambai Tenggol Chief Korounganba Khuman led the tribute programme. Earlier in the day, students took out a rally in the area as part of the observance. The organisers used the programme to remember those who lost their lives during the ongoing conflict and reaffirmed their commitment to honouring the victims.

Manipur Sepak Takraw Players Felicitated by SAI STC Imphal

Imphal, October 8: Manipur’s Sepak Takraw players and coach who participated in the 20th Asian Games were felicitated by the Sports Authority of India’s STC Imphal at Khuman Lampak Sports Complex. The event honoured bronze medallists in the Men’s Quadrant event Yumnam Akash, Sorokhaibam Malemnganba and Elangbam Lokhon, along with other participating players and coach Pangambam Durjit. Speaking at the programme, coach Durjit called for concerted efforts to win at least three gold medals in Sepak Takraw at the 2030 Asian Games, which will be held in India. The felicitation recognised the athletes’ performance at the recently concluded continental sporting event.

SSU FC and Neroca FC Enter Manipur Police Football Cup Quarterfinals

Imphal, October 8: SSU FC Singjamei and Neroca FC Sangakpham have advanced to the quarterfinals of the ongoing first Manipur Police Football Cup. In the Round of 16 matches, SSU FC Singjamei defeated Utlou FC 5-2 in a penalty shootout, while Neroca FC Sangakpham secured an 8-2 victory over Pathap FC Lilong. The tournament is being held at the Artificial Turf Ground, Lamlong Thongkhong, in connection with the 135th Raising Day of Manipur Police. Sixteen teams are competing in the knockout tournament. The next matches will see USA FC Khurai take on Manipur Police Sports Club, followed by Krypsha FC Naoremthong versus AIM FC Khabam.

MPSC Bodybuilder P. Nandajit Felicitated for National Gold

Imphal, October 8: Icon Gym felicitated Manipur Police Sports Club bodybuilder and constable P. Nandajit for winning gold in the 60-kilogram category at the 75th All India Police Wrestling Cluster Championship 2026 in Haryana. The championship was held from September 23 to 27. Nandajit’s achievement was recognised during a felicitation programme attended by Youth Affairs and Sports Assistant Director T. Dushanta, Senior Advocate S. Bishwajit, former Mr India A. Momotomba and others. The programme acknowledged Nandajit’s success at the national-level competition and his contribution to bringing recognition to Manipur through sport.