Items filtered by date: Wednesday, 26 August 2026

Amit Shah Assures CM of Centre’s Support for Manipur

New Delhi, August 26: Union Home Minister Amit Shah has assured Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand that the Central Government will fulfil the wishes and aspirations of the people of Manipur. The assurance came when the Chief Minister met Shah at his official residence in New Delhi today. Shah is also scheduled to visit Manipur in the first week of October, when he will lay the foundation stone for the new Senapati Medical College and oversee developmental projects. Khemchand said Shah agreed to lay the foundation stone for the medical college. The Home Minister also appreciated the resumption of the Imphal-Dimapur-Guwahati bus service and free movement along National Highway-2.

CM Khemchand Meets Kiren Rijiju in Delhi

New Delhi, August 26: Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand met Union Minister for Minority Affairs and Parliamentary Affairs Kiren Rijiju at his official residence in New Delhi today. The two leaders discussed a range of issues concerning Manipur, including the development and welfare of minority communities. Khemchand sought the Union Ministry of Minority Affairs’ assistance for various developmental projects in the state. Discussions also covered the Manipur Assembly elections scheduled for early next year. Rijiju reportedly assured the Chief Minister that his ministry would extend all possible assistance to Manipur. The meeting comes amid continued consultations between state and Central leaders on issues affecting the state.

AAMA, AMPSA Demand Concrete Action on NRC

Imphal, August 26: Apunba Awonba Manipur Amagidamak and the All Manipur Progressive Students Association have criticised BJP Ministers and MLAs for allegedly failing to clearly address the demand for NRC updation before the Census. Speaking at a joint press meet at the AAMA office in Kangabam Leikai, AAMA President Panthoi Arambam said both organisations support the ongoing JFD agitation under the slogan “No NRC, No Census.” She alleged that concerns relating to the Census, delimitation and resettlement of internally displaced persons have not been adequately addressed. The organisations warned BJP leaders currently in Delhi to deliver concrete results on the demands before returning to Manipur.

Census Training at GM Hall Cancelled

Imphal, August 26: A three-day training programme for Census Enumerators and Supervisors scheduled at GM Hall in Imphal from today has been cancelled amid the ongoing JFD-led boycott agitation. A notice displayed at the venue confirmed the cancellation, although authorities have not provided an official reason. The Campaign for Just and Fair Delimitation had earlier urged the government to stop Census-related training, maintaining that NRC updation should precede the Census. The cancellation comes amid growing protests and campaigns across Manipur demanding “No NRC, No Census.” Several organisations and student groups have been opposing Census-related activities in different parts of the state.

Kwakeithel Clubs Oppose Census Training

Imphal, August 26: Clubs and Meira Paibi groups in the Kwakeithel Nganappithong locality have opposed Census-related training for government employees in the area. At a press meet, Social Welfare Club Secretary Konjengbam Binoy said the organisations would oppose any Census-related activity and extend full support to the ongoing JFD agitation. Meira Paibi President Th. Devata reiterated the demand for NRC updation before the Census, with 1951 as the base year. The groups said their opposition was in line with the wider “No NRC, No Census” campaign being pursued by civil society organisations and local communities across Manipur.

Singjamei Launches ‘No NRC, No Census’ Poster Campaign

Imphal, August 26: The Singjamei Constituency has launched a “No NRC, No Census” poster campaign as part of the ongoing public agitation against conducting the Census before NRC updation. The campaign was organised by Singjamei Kendra Apunba Clubs and formally launched at Chingamathak Young Learners’ Club today. SKAC President Konjengbam Chingkham said the campaign seeks to spread awareness that the Census should not be conducted in Manipur without first updating the National Register of Citizens. The campaign adds to a series of protests, rallies and awareness activities being organised in different parts of the state over the NRC and Census issue.

Meira Paibis Stage Sit-In at Pishumthong

Imphal, August 26: Meira Paibi members of Pishumthong Oinam Leikai, Haobam Marak and Ningom Leirak staged a sit-in at Pishumthong Market today, demanding NRC updation and resettlement of internally displaced persons before the Census. The women also observed a cease-work as part of the protest. JFD Community Affairs Secretary Sougrakpam Sumati said conducting the Census under the prevailing circumstances would be inappropriate. She warned that forcing the Census despite public opposition could lead to an escalation of the agitation. The protest is part of the wider JFD-led campaign against conducting the Census without first addressing the NRC and IDP resettlement demands.

Torch Rally Held in Uripok

Imphal, August 26: Supporting the ongoing JFD agitation, the Uripok Bachaspati Maning Leikai Development Association organised a torch rally in the locality last evening. Participants raised the demand for NRC updation before the Census as part of the continuing “No NRC, No Census” campaign. The rally reflects growing participation by local clubs and civil society groups in the movement opposing the proposed Census exercise without prior NRC updation. Similar awareness campaigns, sit-ins and rallies have been reported from different parts of Manipur in recent days, with organisations calling for the government to address public concerns before proceeding with Census-related activities.

IEDUCO Opposes Census Without NRC

Imphal, August 26: The Imphal East District United Clubs Organisation has opposed the Census exercise unless the National Register of Citizens is first updated in Manipur. In a statement, IEDUCO said it would extend full support to the ongoing agitation under the slogan “No NRC, No Census.” The organisation also expressed solidarity with AMUCO, Poirei Leimarol, AMAWOVA, COHR and MSF on the issue. Meanwhile, the Schedule Tribe Demand Committee of Manipur has also extended support to the JFD agitation. STDCM said its annual general meeting will be held on August 30 from noon to 12:30 pm at the Conference Hall of Youth Hostel near Khuman Lampak Minuthong.

RPI Athawale Leader Calls for Stronger Representation

Imphal, August 26: RPI Athawale National Secretary Maheshwar Thounaojam has criticised Manipur MLAs for allegedly failing to effectively convey the concerns of the people to the Central Government. Speaking on the sidelines of a party programme at Hotel Imphal, he said merely raising issues in the Assembly was not enough and elected representatives must directly communicate state concerns to Central leaders. On the Census issue, Maheshwar warned of serious consequences if the exercise is conducted without NRC updation using 1951 as the base year. He also said RPI Athawale National President and Union Minister Ramdas Athawale is expected to visit Manipur in September to discuss the issue.

TAKDAL to Hold Mass Rally on August 31

Thoubal, August 26: Thoubal and Kakching District Apunba Lup will organise a mass rally titled “Yelhoumee Meeyamgi Khollao Puba Khongchat” on August 31. The rally will begin from Kodompokpi Sports Complex in Wangjing at 1 pm and proceed towards the Khongjom War Memorial Complex. TAKDAL has appealed to all indigenous communities residing in Manipur to participate in the rally. According to the organisation, the programme aims to promote unity and safeguard the state’s shared traditions, culture and identity. The rally is expected to bring together people from different communities in support of the organisation’s stated objective of strengthening social unity and protecting Manipur’s collective heritage.

Search Continues for Missing Woman Near Sangaithel

Imphal, August 26: Search operations are continuing for 26-year-old Ngangbam Nanao, who went missing after reportedly being last seen near Kokhen Kuki Village close to the Sangaithel Olympic Park area. A search team comprising Lamshang MLA Sorokhaibam Rajen, Manipur Police and security personnel is using sniffer dogs and drones to trace her. Locals launched a search yesterday evening after her family reported that she had not returned home. CRPF personnel stationed in Imphal West have reportedly been unable to cross into the area under Kangpokpi district jurisdiction. Meanwhile, an Assam Rifles post in Kangpokpi reportedly said the missing woman had not crossed into the district.

Arms Cache Recovered in Phayeng

Imphal, August 26: A combined team of Imphal West District Police Commandos and 33 Assam Rifles recovered a cache of weapons during a search operation along the Apun Lok riverside at Phayeng under Lamshang Police Station today. According to police, the operation was based on reliable information. Security forces recovered one CMG with a magazine, one modified .303 rifle with magazine and seven pistols of different calibres, each with a magazine. Five single-barrel guns, one double-barrel gun and two hand grenades were also recovered. The operation forms part of continuing search and area-domination measures by security forces in the district.

Arms and Explosives Recovered in Churachandpur

Churachandpur, August 26: Security forces recovered arms, ammunition and explosives from the Nepali Basti area near Maovom Village under Churachandpur Police Station yesterday. The recovered items included one MP-09, one single-barrel gun, one functional rocket and one Pompi. Security personnel also recovered eight 7.62 mm live rounds, two land mines, one mortar bomb, four detonators and one improvised fragmentation mine, along with other miscellaneous items. The recovery was made during security operations in the area. Authorities are continuing efforts to identify the source of the weapons and explosives and determine whether they were linked to any armed group or other unlawful activity.

Weapons Recovered, Bunkers Destroyed in Taphou

Senapati, August 26: Security forces recovered arms and ammunition during a cordon-and-search operation at Taphou Kuki and Taphou Liangmai yesterday. The operation was conducted jointly by Manipur Police, CoBRA, CRPF and the Mahila Battalion. Security forces recovered two SBBL guns, 78 live 12-bore rounds, 11 empty 12-bore cases and empty cases of AK-47 and .22 ammunition. A 12-bore cartridge belt, charger set, five vehicle registration plates and an empty military-surplus ammunition container were also recovered. Three bunkers were destroyed during the operation—two at Taphou Kuki and one at Taphou Liangmai. The operation follows recent security concerns in the area.

Displaced Moreh Naga Families Seek Resettlement

Tengnoupal, August 26: The Moreh Naga Village Authority’s Displaced Household Joint Action Committee has urged the government to resettle Naga families displaced during the 1992 Naga-Kuki clash in their original homes. Speaking at Manipur Press Club, Chairman Marashang Hashuwoshi said around 539 Naga people belonging to 73 households lived in Moreh between 1974 and 1992 and had been allotted land pattas by the State Government. He alleged that the families were forced to leave during the clash and later settled in Imphal, Ukhrul, Senapati and Chandel. Hashuwoshi said repeated appeals to the Governor, Chief Minister and Deputy Commissioners have not yielded a positive response and urged the government to fulfil earlier assurances on resettlement.

KWOHR Raises Concerns Over IDP Assistance

Churachandpur, August 26: The Kuki Women Organisation for Human Rights has expressed concern over issues relating to financial assistance for internally displaced persons staying in relief camps in Churachandpur district. In a statement, KWOHR alleged that some eligible IDPs had been denied assistance and raised concerns over deletion of names from the Direct Benefit Transfer system. The organisation claimed that the names of 3,119 IDPs out of 15,409 eligible beneficiaries had been deleted from DBT, while around 4,000 people among nearly 20,000 non-camp displaced persons were allegedly being denied benefits. KWOHR called attention to the reported difficulties faced by displaced families in accessing financial assistance and related welfare support.

Machi High School Faces Teacher, Infrastructure Shortages

Tengnoupal, August 26: Machi Government High School is facing severe shortages of teachers and infrastructure despite being covered under the School Pragati-Hansi Mission and PM SHRI scheme. An inspection by social worker TK Moshilpha and his team found that the school has 276 students from Classes 1 to 10 but only six regular and six contractual teachers. The school has no government teacher for Mathematics and English, while three graduate teachers have been utilised elsewhere. There is also no Lower Division Clerk. Machi Baptist Church is reportedly supporting the institution by engaging 14 teachers. Moshilpha urged authorities to fill vacant posts, complete two hostel buildings and upgrade the school to Higher Secondary level before the 2027 academic session.

Khurai Kala Bidya Bhavan Felicitates Awardees

Imphal, August 26: Khurai Kala Bidya Bhavan felicitated recipients of the Sangeet Natak Akademi and Yuva Puruskar Awards for 2024-25 at its premises in Khurai Sajor Leikai today. JNMDA Director Pukhrambam Bilash, Khurai Kala Bidya Bhavan President RK Narjit and Sangeet Natak Akademi Awardee A. Tombichou attended the programme. Awardees RK Thambalsana, L. Bidapati, I. Nalini and T. Ronel, who received the prestigious honours from President Droupadi Murmu, were felicitated. Artistes of Khurai Kala Bidya Bhavan also presented the new 2026-27 production “Pungba Jagoi,” a Manipuri folk dance. President RK Narjit highlighted the institution’s role in preserving Manipur’s art and cultural traditions.

Veteran Manipuri Artist Huirem Ongbi Ibeni Dies at 82

Imphal, August 26: Veteran Manipuri film and theatre artist Huirem Ongbi Ibeni has passed away at the age of 82. She died at her residence at Yaishkul Heru Hanba Leirak in Imphal yesterday following an illness. Ibeni was the wife of late Huirem Motilal and had contributed to both Manipuri cinema and theatre. Among the films in which she acted during the celluloid era of Manipuri cinema were “Yairipok Thambalnu” and “Madhabee.” She was also known for her role in the popular theatre production “Makhoisu Meeni.” The Manipur State Film Development Society expressed condolences over the demise of the veteran artist and remembered her contribution to Manipuri performing arts.

Salute Achievers Awardees Welcomed in Imphal

Imphal, August 26: Recipients of the Salute Achievers Awards were accorded a warm welcome upon their arrival at Imphal International Airport today. Celin Digital and Bahujana Sahitya Academy, Manipur State organised the reception for Nat Sankirtana activist Ningombam Usharani, teacher M. Bijenkumar, and Sanasam Robita and Sanasam Rebika. The awardees received various honours, including the Salute Achievers Award, Honorary Doctorate, Youth Award and Women Empowerment Award, as well as recognition for contributions to Handloom and Handicraft. The awards were presented at a function organised by the Salute Achievers Honourable Foundation, New Delhi, on August 24.

Manipuri Language Festival to Be Held in Agartala

Agartala, August 26: Patriotic Writers Forum of Tripura and Manipur will jointly organise the 35th “Imalongi Kumhei” Manipuri Language Festival 2026 on August 29 at Muktadhara Auditorium in Agartala. Wangkhei MLA Thangjam Arunkumar will inaugurate the festival. The event will feature special sessions, traditional performances, dance programmes and a musical concert highlighting the cultural heritage of Manipuri communities residing in Tripura. Organisers said the festival will provide a platform to celebrate and promote Manipuri language, literature and traditional arts among the community. The event is expected to bring together writers, artists, cultural practitioners and members of the Manipuri community.

Meetei Mayek Competition Sees Major Rise in Participation

Imphal, August 26: Participation in this year’s Meetei Mayek proficiency competition organised by MEELAL has increased significantly compared to previous years, according to MEELAL President Langoljam Nongmailembi. Speaking at the prize distribution ceremony at the JN Manipur Dance Academy Auditorium, she said the annual competition was conducted on August 2 for students from Classes 1 to 10 across 46 centres in six districts. Around 13,000 students, including those from different communities, participated. Several non-Meitei students also secured top positions. Nongmailembi said improvements in participation and grammatical accuracy were encouraging and called for collective efforts to further promote the Manipuri language and script.

NIT Manipur Concludes Youth Exchange Programme

Imphal, August 26: The National Institute of Technology Manipur concluded the Ashta-lakshmi Darshan Youth Exchange Programme 2026-27 today. The programme was organised under the aegis of the North Eastern Council and the Union Ministry of DoNER, with NIT Manipur serving as the host institution. Around 40 students from Chandigarh and Puducherry participated in the exchange programme. The initiative aimed to promote national integration, cultural exchange and greater understanding among young people from different parts of the country. During their stay, the participants gained insights into Manipur’s cultural heritage, history, traditions and the diverse communities of the Northeast.

Churachandpur Steps Up Response to Childhood Illnesses

Churachandpur, August 26: Churachandpur Deputy Commissioner Krishna Kumar convened an emergency meeting with health and education officials today amid reported cases of suspected dengue, typhoid, flu-like illnesses and Hand, Foot and Mouth disease among children. The DC directed officials to intensify awareness campaigns in villages, schools and colleges and eliminate mosquito-breeding sites within 50 to 100 metres of residential areas. The Chief Medical Officer said affected children, particularly those aged zero to five years, were receiving symptomatic treatment and that no fatalities had been reported. The DC later inspected the District Hospital and directed officials to establish a dedicated medical cell and helpline for public assistance.

Assam Rifles Conducts Fogging Drive in Churachandpur

Churachandpur, August 26: Assam Rifles conducted a fogging drive in Churachandpur district in response to the recent rise in reported dengue cases. The operation focused on areas identified as being among the worst affected by dengue, including Dawn School, Thingkangphai Village, Veng, St. Paul School and Maulbem Village. The fogging drive was aimed at reducing mosquito breeding and limiting the spread of vector-borne disease in affected localities. The initiative comes as district authorities intensify preventive measures following reports of suspected dengue and other illnesses among children. Residents have also been urged to maintain cleanliness and take precautions against mosquito-borne diseases.

Baby Kits Distributed at JNIMS

Imphal, August 26: Mahavir International Imphal Centre organised a Baby Kit distribution programme at the Gynaecology Department of JNIMS Hospital in Porompat today. Members of the organisation visited the hospital and distributed kits to newborn babies as part of an initiative focused on the welfare of women and children. The programme placed particular emphasis on supporting newborns and families during the early stages of childcare. Mahavir International Imphal Centre said its activities are aimed at contributing to community welfare, with health and education among its areas of focus. The distribution at JNIMS provided immediate assistance to families with newborn children receiving care at the hospital.

Child Protection and Mental Health Awareness Programme Held

Tengnoupal, August 26: A one-day awareness programme on Child Protection and Mental Health was held at the Training Hall of the Weaker Section Development Council at Khangshim. The programme was organised by the South Eastern Rural Development Society, Khangshim, under the aegis of the District Child Protection Unit, Tengnoupal, and the District Legal Services Authority, Chandel. Sessions covered mental health and emotional wellbeing, police responsibilities in safeguarding children and issues relating to child marriage. The programme aimed to raise awareness among participants about child protection mechanisms and the importance of addressing mental health and emotional wellbeing, while highlighting the responsibilities of authorities and communities in protecting children.

RIMS Warns Against Fake Recruitment Notification

Imphal, August 26: RIMS Imphal has warned the public against a fake recruitment notification being circulated in the name of the institute. RIMS clarified that a notification dated August 24, 2026, claiming the regular recruitment of six Staff Nurses and four Multi-Tasking Staff is fake and was neither issued nor authorised by the institute. The institute also said the signature appearing on the notification does not belong to the Director, RIMS. RIMS advised the public not to rely on, act upon or circulate the fraudulent notification. The institute further stated that legal action will be initiated against those responsible for creating and circulating the fake document.

Tree Plantation Drive Held at Koirengei

Imphal, August 26: The Association of MSAP Alumni Manipur and Urban Society Trust, Imphal, in collaboration with the Manipur Central Forest Division, conducted a tree plantation drive at Koirengei Maiba Khul today. Around 200 saplings were planted at the Urban Society Farm House and surrounding areas. With the latest plantation, the organisations said the total number of saplings planted so far has reached around 2,500. The drive forms part of continuing efforts to increase green cover and promote environmental awareness. Members and participants took part in planting saplings in the designated areas, contributing to the organisations’ broader environmental conservation initiatives.

Tree Plantation and Awareness Programme Held in Sora

Kakching, August 26: The DFO Chandel organised a tree plantation and awareness programme at Sora Village in Kakching district today. Around 100 saplings were planted during the programme, which was held as part of the Mawlid Al-Nabi observance. Students of Royal Brighter Higher Secondary School and members of the Muslim community participated in the plantation drive. The programme combined environmental awareness with community participation and religious observance. Organisers and participants highlighted the importance of planting trees and protecting the environment. The initiative also encouraged students and local residents to take part in activities aimed at improving the green cover and maintaining a healthier local environment.

Cleaniteria Opens Third Branch in Khurai

Imphal, August 26: Manipur-based laundry and dry-cleaning company Cleaniteria opened its third branch at Khurai today. Branch Proprietor Sibraj Soibam said the company provides premium laundry services using modern technology and offers monthly subscription plans along with pick-up and delivery facilities. He said the company is planning to expand its franchise network across Manipur and other northeastern states by 2027. The new branch is expected to provide customers in and around Khurai with access to organised laundry and dry-cleaning services. The expansion marks another step in the company’s efforts to establish a wider presence in the regional market.

Flash Flood in Nepal Kills at Least 17

Rasuwa, August 26: At least 17 people have been killed and hundreds remain unaccounted for after a violent flash flood struck near the China-Nepal border today. Reports said around 400 people are missing, including at least 105 Indians, after floodwaters swept through Nepal’s northern Rasuwa district near the Tibet border. The sudden surge in the Bhote Koshi River struck the Rasuwagadhi-Timure area around 9 am local time, damaging homes, vehicles, bridges and infrastructure. Neighbouring Nuwakot and Dhading districts have also been affected. Sixty employees of an under-construction 20 MW hydropower project in Rasuwa are reportedly missing. Floodwaters have also prompted an alert in Bihar.

US Announces Global Pause on Immigrant Visa Processing

Washington, August 26: The Trump administration has announced a global pause on immigrant visa processing, citing concerns over potential dependence by applicants on US public benefits. The Financial Times, quoting State Department officials, reported that consular officers are being trained to conduct a “comprehensive and consistent” evaluation of applicants to determine whether they could become a public charge and depend on subsistence assistance. The reported move could affect immigrant visa processing at US diplomatic missions worldwide. The administration’s action reflects its broader emphasis on evaluating applicants based on their potential reliance on public assistance.

National Sports Day Programmes Set for Tomorrow

Kakching, August 26: Mera Yuva Bharat and the NSS Units of Kha Manipur College, Kakching will observe National Sports Day 2026 tomorrow as part of the nationwide celebration organised under the Union Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports. Speaking at a press conference today, NSS Unit 1 Programme Officer T. Nandagopal said the programme will focus on youth participation, sports development and nation-building. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will virtually interact with around eight lakh youths nationwide under the Viksit Bharat Yuva Connect programme. Kha Manipur College, Kakching and Kakching Khunou College have been selected among 1,600 locations across the country for the celebration.