Imphal, April 23: Governor of Manipur, Ajay Kumar Bhalla, today, graced the Khongjom Day observation held at Khongjom War Memorial Complex in Thoubal District. Governor led the people to pay tribute to the departed heroes of Khongjom War of 1891 by laying wreath at the war memorial at Kheba hill top. Guard of Honour, General Salute, Reverse Arms, Sounding of Last Post, Two-minute-silence, Slope Arms and Order Arms were accorded as a mark of respect to the departed souls who laid down their lives defending the sovereignty of Manipur.
Governor also led the people to pay respect to Paona Brajabashi by laying wreath at the statue of the freedom fighter at Kheba foothill followed by Gun Salute. Governor offered Tarpon at Khongjom River. He also paid homage to the Sankirtan.
Governor while addressing the gathering, strongly condemned the terror attack at Pahalgam in Jammu & Kashmir yesterday and extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families of the victims.
On the observation Governor said, Khongjom Day is a tribute to those brave sons of Manipur, who had sacrificed their lives in the Anglo-Manipur War of 1891 for their motherland. Despite the odds, the brave warriors of Manipur fought back relentlessly against the British Empire for her independence. The battle of Khongjom was not just a battle of arms but a battle of honour, patriotism and self- determination. The indomitable spirit of the people of Manipur remains a unique history of patriotism in the world.
Reflecting on the current situation, Governor noted that significant efforts have been undertaken over the past months to restore normalcy and ensure that Manipur progresses on the path of peace, stability, and inclusive development. Governor also highlighted ongoing initiatives aimed at improving the rehabilitation of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) residing in various relief camps. Under the Ministry of Tourism’s ‘Hunar Se Rojgar’ initiative, steps have been taken to create employment opportunities for the youth, particularly for those affected by displacement.
Emphasising the importance of strengthening the education sector, Governor stated that it is vital for the youth to not only understand our history but also acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to thrive in today’s fast-paced world. The recent inauguration of Information Technology Centres in Kangpokpi, Churachandpur, and Senapati districts, funded by the Ministry of Home Affairs, marks a significant step in equipping students with the tools needed to succeed in the evolving digital landscape.
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Governor also shared that the state has launched the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan to raise awareness about the harmful effects of substance abuse, as part of the Government of India’s broader mission to build a drug-free nation. In another major milestone for rural development, Manipur has received a record allocation under MGNREGA for the financial year 2025-26 — the highest-ever sanctioned amount for the state under this scheme, he added.
Governor urged the youth to contribute towards building a better Manipur and to uphold the ideals of justice, equality, and brotherhood. Governor called on everyone to honour the sacrifices made at the Battle of Khongjom by striving to create a brighter, stronger, and united Manipur.
Former Chief Minister, O. Ibobi Singh; MP (Lok Sabha) Angomcha Bimol Akoijam, MLAs, Chief Secretary, Prashant Kumar Singh; DGP, Rajiv Singh and other senior civil and police officers attended the observation.
(Press Release of the Governor’s Secretariate, Raj Bhavan, Imphal)