IMPHAL: Chief Minister Okram Ibobi said central projects and other developmental works in Manipur are facing frequent disturbances which is hampering the work progress. He was speaking on the last of three-day observation of Rani Gaidinliu’s 100th birth anniversary organised by Kabui Mothers’ Association Manipur at MFDC Auditorium, Palace Compound. Okram Ibobi who graced the function as chief guest said, a statue of late freedom fighter Rani Gaidinliu will be installed at a proper place in recognition of her contribution. Ibobi admitted the Central projects in the state face frequent interruptions. He appealed for public support so that these projects can be completed on time. The chief minister said Jiribam-Tupul Railway project is one of the major projects which is underway at full swing. He said kidnapping of 3 workers by unknown gunmen has created panicky situation for the other workers and officials. Ibobi  appealed to the kidnappers to release the abducted 3 workers unharmed. Deputy Chief Minister Gaikhangam who was the president at the function said the Central and State Government have always recognise the bravery and contribution of the late freedom fighter Rani Gaidinliu. He said recognising her contribution to the nation the Central Government released coins of Rs 100 and Rs 5 denominating her picture to mark the 100th Birth Anniversary of Rani Gaidinliu. 

IMPHAL: JD (U), Manipur State President, M Tombi, said the party will urged the Union Government to deploy National Highway Protection Force intimidating the problems faced by the people of the state in the National Highways. Speaking to media at the party head office at Babupara, M Tombi said the fact finding report has been made about the unlawful activities carried out on the highways. The report will be submitted to the Union Ministers while their visit to the state.  M Tombi also said the party will meet Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari and submit the report in February this year. He also condemned the recent assault of a Manipuri truck driver at Lalmati in Nagaland.

Manipuri girls romped home with the Championship Trophy in doubles at the 17th Sub-Junior National Sepak Takraw Championship held at Kurnool in Andhra Pradesh. In singles, the boys and girls team from Manipur managed to corner the 3rd position at the Regu event of the championship. The Adhoc Committee Sepak Takraw Manipur gave the jubilant team a rousing reception at a function held here yesterday. The Championship was organised by Andhra Pradesh Sepak Takraw Association at Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh from 11 to 14 of January.   Altogether 10 players, 2 managers and 2 coaches from Manipur participated at the Championship. Imphal East DYASO Nirmalata Devi, Imphal West DYASO Ng Motilal, SAI Coach Muhindro and Team Manager Mahavir who graced the reception function distributed certificates and medal to the winners.

IMPHAL: Series of IED blasts rocked Manipur even on the day of Republic Day. But the state government thinks there were no security lapses from its side. Deputy Chief Minister Gaikhangam who also holds the Home portfolio today said there were no security lapses from the side of the state government. Regarding yesterday’s six serial IED blasts, which occurred in and around Imphal, Gaikhangam said underground outfits wanted their presence to be felt.  He said they could have targeted public places and created unwanted incidents but they avoided it. The Deputy Chief Minister appealed to all sections of society to work together so that Manipur becomes a welfare state. 

IMPHAL: Freedom fighter Rani Gaidinliu's 100th birth anniversary was observed at Congress Bhavan in BT Road today. The function was organised by Manipur Pradesh Congress Committee at the party office. Party members along with Deputy Chief Minister Gaikhangam offered floral tribute to the late freedom fighter. Rani Gaidinliu was not only a great leader of Zeliangrong tribe but also a fearless leader of Manipur who fought against the Britishers. Rani Gaidinliu was born on 26th January 1915 at Nungkao village, Tamenglong district. At the tender age of 13, she joined the agitation against the Britishers. In the year 1932 she was arrested and put behind bars for life. For her bravery, she was given the title 'Rani' by India's first Prime Minister Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru. The government of India honoured her prestigious Padma Bhushan award in 1993.  Speaking at the occasion Deputy Chief Minister Gaikhangam said it is great honour for Manipur that government of India is releasing coins denoting Rani Gaidinliu. The denominations of coins are of Rs 100 and Rs 5.