Imphal, September 6: A joint meeting was held on Saturday at Hotel Imphal between representatives of various Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) in Manipur and members of the Liangmai community.
During the meeting, the Liangmai–Imphal Market Committee was formally constituted, with the following office bearers:
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Kh. Chingkhai Luwangcha – Chairman
Wisobou Charenamai – Vice-Chairman
Nongthombam Sanajaoba – Convenor
Diphiu Prinmai – Co-Convenor
Wiriangjinliu Chawang – Finance
Ch. Pakpi Chanu – Co-Convenor (Finance)
Sukham Bidyananda – IPR Convenor
Khiugaliu Wijunamai – Executive Member
Ayekpam Langdol Leima – Executive Member
Khuraijam Athouba – Chief Advisor
Addressing the press at the Manipur Press Club on Monday, Nongthombam Sanajaoba, Convenor of the Liangmai–Imphal Market Committee, expressed that the main objective of the initiative is to strengthen the economic and emotional relationship between the Liangmai indigenous community and the Meitei people. He further informed that the inaugural program will be held on September 16, 2025 at Tera Bazaar, Imphal.
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Speaking on the press club, Diphiu Prinmai, Co-Convenor, highlighted the importance of economic growth and the need to strengthen the bond of indigenous communities in Manipur. He stated that this initiative will not only support farmers by providing them direct access to markets but also ensure that consumers in the capital can avail fresh, indigenous products at fair prices. Liangmai land is rich, resourceful and home to some of the largest forests in Manipur. It is especially known for producing fresh organic vegetables such as cabbage, tomato, potato, beetroot, carrot, banana and wild bamboo shoot and many more. The main supply of these organic products comes from the Koubru ranges of Kangpokpi District, the Tamei region of Tamenglong, the Liangmai areas of Tamenglong, and the Tadubi region of Senapati District. Liangmai organic vegetables are among one of the finest agricultural products in Manipur.
Diphiu Prinmai stated at the initial stage, the Committee aims to introduce a Mobile Market system across various parts of Imphal city such as Tera Bazaar, Sagolband, Kwakeithel, Nagamapal, New Checkon, and other localities. This will provide wider interaction with the public, foster people-to-people contact and promote exchange of ideas and culture through economic activities. The opening of the Imphal Market by the Liangmai community and other indigenous groups is also seen as a step towards inclusivity and unity in the state, creating opportunities for farmers, vendors and entrepreneurs from the hills to connect directly with urban consumers. Such initiatives will not only enhance livelihood but also celebrate the diversity of Manipur’s indigenous communities by bringing their agricultural products, crafts and traditional products to the heart of the capital.
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The Committee said it firmly believes that the Liangmai-Imphal Market will serve as a platform of solidarity, enabling indigenous communities to work together for mutual growth, strengthen trust among different groups and pave the way for long-term socio-economic cooperation in Manipur.