IMPHAL: The newly elected Executive Committee of the Indigenous People’s Forum Manipur (IPFM) for the tenure 2026–February 2029 took oath during a ceremony held at Hotel Imphal on Friday.
The newly formed committee will be headed by Chinaochung Makan as President, with IK Joyson Balang serving as Vice President. Ramtahung Newme has been appointed as General Secretary, while D.Y. Shuthahring Anal will serve as Joint Secretary. Nganaomi Kasar will take charge as Finance Secretary.
Other office bearers include D.C. Roimuson as Coordinator for Indigenous Folk Songs, Ningreila Muivah as Coordinator of the Women Wing, and Thingyaso Kasar as Coordinator for Games and Sports.
The Information and Publicity Coordinators are K. Khayingmi, Nongthombam Praji, and Meingandai Kamei, while the Media Cell Coordinators include Raingam Keishing, Ningombam Ronaldo Singh, and K. Worchui.
For the Horticulture and Agriculture Farms division, H. Mibaa and Roficah Newmai have been appointed as coordinators.
The executive members include Tathuanang Balang, Manaseh Chawang, Larson Anal, Abon Pamai, Anandy P. Shimrah, Kekhromupelu Lohe, Cutipie Anthangmi, and Boaz Thanga.
Meanwhile, IPFM founding member and Chief Advisor Ashang Kasar issued a call urging indigenous communities across Manipur to unite and strengthen efforts to safeguard their identity, land, rights, and traditional institutions.
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In a statement, he said the forum has been working towards the enactment of a Protection and Preservation of Indigenous People’s Bill, which aims to establish safeguards for indigenous communities in the state. He added that the proposed legislation would create a dedicated welfare department for indigenous people and ensure greater allocation of development funds and schemes.
Kasar also highlighted concerns over demographic changes, corruption, and the continued implementation of the Armed Forces Special Powers Act, stating that the organisation would continue advocating for policies that protect indigenous rights.
Calling for greater participation, he urged volunteers, professionals, and well-wishers to support the movement through ideas, expertise, and financial contributions to strengthen the forum’s ongoing initiatives for the welfare of indigenous people in the state.