Longmai: In line with celebrations across the nation, the Noney District Administration observed the 78th Independence Day on Thursday at the DC’s Office Complex in Longmai, Noney, amidst tight security.
Deputy Commissioner Noney, Sharath Chandra Arroju, unfurled the national tricolor to the Rashtriya Salute, accompanied by the National Anthem. He also inspected the march-past contingents during the ceremony.
As the chief guest, Sharath Chandra Arroju paid tribute to the country’s revered leaders and freedom fighters, including Mahatma Gandhi, Bhagat Singh, and Rani Lakshmi Bai, whose sacrifices won the nation its freedom. He also elaborated on the ongoing development projects in the newly established district.
Touching upon the district’s achievements in transportation and communication, the DC highlighted the arrival of the first passenger train in Khongsang on October 13, 2022, which operated thrice weekly until its final journey on May 1, 2023. Additionally, he mentioned the first Rice Rake, transporting FCI food grains, arriving at Khongsang Railway Station on July 13, 2024.
Sharath Chandra Arroju further spoke about the District Administration’s swift intervention during recent natural disasters, including a windstorm on April 24, 2024, a hailstorm on May 5, 2024, and Cyclone Remal on May 28, 2024. The administration provided immediate relief, distributing CGI sheets and essential items. When land sinking occurred at Longmai I on August 4 and 5, 2024, damaging several houses, affected families were promptly relocated to temporary relief camps. Relief efforts, including the distribution of essential supplies, were overseen by the SDO Office, Longmai, with assessments for relief funds sent to the Department of Relief & Disaster Management.
The DC also emphasized the importance of forest conservation, noting that the Forest Department distributed around 50,000 saplings to district residents. Furthermore, two water-harvesting ponds were constructed in Ijeirong and Khoupum under the CAMPA initiative.
Highlighting the work of the District Social Welfare Office (DSWO), Noney, the DC mentioned various welfare schemes such as the Indira Gandhi National Old Age Pension Scheme, Manipur Old Age Pension Scheme, Chief Minister Widow Pension Scheme, and Caregiver Allowance for PWDs. He also praised the DSWO’s implementation of the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan, which involved mass pledges against drugs by 21 schools and 2,363 students and teachers. A sapling-planting campaign was also organized on August 12, 2024, across various schools and public institutions in the district.
The DC celebrated the success of the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana-Gramin Scheme, noting that of the 1,576 houses sanctioned by the Ministry of Rural Development & Panchayati Raj, 1,522 have been completed.
Cultural performances, including traditional dances and patriotic songs, were presented by various artists and troupes. The band from the 19th Assam Rifles delivered a mesmerizing musical performance, delighting the audience. Certificates of appreciation were also distributed to selected government employees and individuals for their contributions.
The event was attended by SP Noney, Namsadai Peter; ADC Stiff Khapudang; Dr. Joyshree from the 19th Assam Rifles; SDOs, SDCs, DLOs, other officials, DC office staff, elders, students, and locals.
