Imphal: Manipur observed Nupee Lal Numit, 2024 with Chief Minister N. Biren Singh leading the Ministers, MLA and senior officials in paying the floral tribute to the departed women freedom fighters at the Nupee Lal Memorial complex on Thursday.
A formal function was also held at the G.P. Women’s College, Central Hall, after paying the floral tribute at the Nupee Lal Memorial Complex, with Chief Minister N. Biren Singh as the chief guest and Minister Th. Biswajit Singh as president of the observation. MLA Oinam AC, Irengbam Nalini Devi; MLA Chandel AC, SS. Olish and MLA Naoriya Pakhanglakpa AC, Sagolshem Kebi Devi also shared the dais with the Chief Minister as guests of honour respectively.
Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister N. Biren Singh said that Nupee Lal Numit is observed every year to remember the role played by our brave women in 1904 and 1939, revolting against the injustice of British imperialism. He continued that apart from the contribution of women during the above two instances, we should also remember the bravery and courage shown by Manipuri women in other instances including ousting the Burmese (Awa) during the Seven Year Devastation period (1819-1826).
The Chief Minister further mentioned that the bravery and courage could also be seen among present day women of the State, as they had been leading from the forefront in every issue pertaining to the safety of the people of the State. He spoke on the contribution of Manipuri women in certain sectors including social, economic, art and culture, hospitality and games and sports among others, apart from their household activities. He added that cultural performances shown by our women in different national and international events had shown the uniqueness of our culture across the world.
N. Biren Singh informed that the State Government, acknowledging the hard work and commitment of women, had introduced certain women welfare schemes including Ima Nongthangleima Yaipha Tengbang Scheme, providing financial assistance of Rs 500 per month to unemployed women who are above the age of 40 years. He further informed that Ima markets had been constructed across every district of the State, considering the role of women in economic activities. Financial assistance had also been given to women sports persons in establishing training institutes, to provide training to young athletes in their respective disciplines, he said.
The Chief Minister also spoke on the initiatives of the Central Government under Prime Minister Narendra in passing the Women’s Reservation Bill 2023 in the Parliament. He further mentioned other initiatives taken up by the State Government for students including Chief Minister’s Scholarship for Civil Service Coaching, Chief Minister’s Coaching Scheme for Entrance Examination to Professional Courses for NEET and JEE and establishment of DIET in every district among others.
Regarding the current unprecedented crisis in the State, The Chief Minister informed that State and Central Government had been putting all efforts to bring a permanent solution. However, bringing a solution would take time as the situation had become chronic and fragile, he added. He informed that the State Government in coordination with central forces had been giving every effort to track Laishram Kamalbabu who went missing from Leimakhong Army campus.
Speaking on the re-imposition of the AFSPA in Manipur’s six police station areas, Shri N. Biren informed that the State Government had requested the Central Government to review and withdraw AFSPA from the said police stations. The Chief Minister sought cooperation and support from the public in the Government’s effort to restore peace and tranquility in the State.
Delivering his speech as the president of the function, Forest, Environment and Climate Change Minister Shri Th. Biswajit Singh stated that Nupee Lal is observed every year to remember the courage and sacrifice of women freedom fighters and to pay tribute to their contributions, adding that the observation should be a proud moment for every Manipuri.
Mentioning the two instances of Nupee Lal in 1904 and 1939 and the courage and bravery of Manipuri women in fighting against the injustice of the British imperialist, he stressed the need for everyone in the State to inherit their courage and love for the motherland.
The Minister stated that Nupee Lal had brought political, social and economic reformation in the state and we should always remember that. Mentioning the contribution of women in different fields, he expressed that gender equality is necessary for bringing development in the State. He further stressed the need for women in the decision-making process for inclusive growth.
He expressed the need to stand together and fight against all vested interests, setting aside all differences, while seeking support and cooperation of the public in bringing peace and development in the State.
Nupee Lal Drama presented by the Nupee Lal Memorial Association Drama Party and presentation of songs by the artistes of Shri Shri Bal Mukunda Dev Government Music College, Imphal were the other highlights of the observation at G.P. Women’s College.
Ministers, MLAs, Chief Secretary, Security Advisor to the Government of Manipur, senior Government Officials, students of G.P. Women’s College and women from across the State attended the programme among others.
