Ukhrul, Jan 21: Nonagenarian and renowned figure, a bureaucrat turned politician, AS. Arthur, inaugurated the 48th edition of Zingsho Katamnao Long – General Conference cum Sports, Literary and Cultural Meet at Shangshak Phunghon, Kamjong District, Manipur.
Also Read | NSCN Issues Directives to Kuki Villages under Kamjong and Tengnoupal Districts
AS. Arthur took voluntary retirement as Special Secretary, Nagaland Legislative Assembly in 1984 to join politics in Manipur. The 98 years old veteran politician, an Ex-Minister for Forest and Environment and General Administration (1994-1997) who was first elected as MLA from 44-Ukhrul Assembly Constituency (1984-1989), attended the celebration as chief guest and hoisted the flag, unveiled the monolith and opened the 48th edition of Zingsho Katamnao Long – General Conference cum Sports, Literary and Cultural Meet 2025, celebrated under the theme “Youth Towards Peace For Holistic Development.”
Due to his advanced age, A.S. Arthur did not address the gathering directly. Instead, his son, Alfred Kanngam Arthur, MP (Outer Manipur) spoke on his behalf. He encouraged the youth to embrace unity, moral responsibility and productivity to become pillars of the community and make their community proud. He urged the gathering to nurture God-given talents for the betterment of the region.
Also Read | Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya Inaugurates Issa-Esic International Seminar
Guest of honour, Victor Keishing, Ex-MLA from 43-Phungyar Assembly Constituency, in his speech, stated, “This kind of platform is a privilege for all of us. Today, we have come together as one to exhibit our best talents and skills, and through this gathering, I believe we would foster better understanding and create harmonious relation among the brethren. Our culture is our root. We must give utmost importance in reviving our rich culture. We should inculcate healthy competition among us and rise with the rest of the world in this fast changing world. May this celebration be a stepping stone for all of us and march ahead for a better Zingsho.”
Also Read | IRMA Extends Support to NITI Aayog-AVA collaboration, Promises Child marriage free Kangpokpi District
Deputy Commissioner of Kamjong, Rangnamei Peter, who attended as Functional President, stated, “May this celebration bring us closer as we showcase our talents and skills in various items. The Zingsho area has produced so many talented athletes, and we are able to excel at national and international levels. In order to bring holistic development in all rounds, we must have good health and sound minds. Drugs are harmful for the growth of human development, therefore let us all say “No To Drugs”. Let us also preserve and promote our culture and identity. This is my appeal to all the youths gathered here today.”
Also Read | Six Injured in Mawkynrew Land Dispute Clash; Curfew Imposed
President of Raphei Katamnao Long, Paomi Khaveishang, in his speech, called for unity among the Tangkhul community. He implored the gathering to overcome their problems and challenges through a collective approach.
Shangshak is about 27 kilometres from Ukhrul. Known for its historical significance as the battlefield for World War II, around 36 units of ZKL numbering 1800 delegates are participating at the celebration, which will wind up on 31 January 2024.
Also Read | Guv Ajay Kumar Bhalla Reviews ‘NIK-SHAY’ and TB Control Program
Special performances by Masotkhon, Frankson Rungsung and Shangshak Phunghon Youth greatly enthralled the crowd, adding more colours to the celebration.
Also Read | 4 SOREPA Cadres Arrested from Moreh
About The Author
