State observes Khongjom Day Bhalla stresses on employment avenues for displaced youths

Our Correspondent/DIPR
IMPHAL, Apr 23: Remembering the fallen heroes of the Anglo-Manipur war of 1891, the State observed Khongjom Day at the historic Kheba Ching in Thoubal district today.
Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla led the people in paying tributes to the fallen heroes of the war by laying wreaths at the Khongjom War Memorial Complex.
Guard of honour, general salute and sounding of last post were accorded as a mark of respect to the martyrs who laid down their lives defending the sovereignty of Manipur.
The people also observed a 2-minute silence as a mark of respect for the martyrs.
The Governor led the people in paying respect to the statue of Paona Brajabashi by laying wreaths at Kheba foothill, followed by a gun salute.
The Governor offered Tarpan in the Khongjom River.
The Governor, while addressing the gathering, strongly condemned the terror attack at Pahalgam in Jammu & Kashmir yesterday which killed at least 26 people. He extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families of the victims.
On the observance, Bhalla said that the Khongjom Day is a tribute to the brave sons of Manipur who sacrificed their lives for the motherland in the Anglo-Manipur War of 1891.
"Despite the odds, the brave warriors of Manipur fought back relentlessly against the British Empire to defend 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," Bhalla said.
Reflecting on the current situation, the Governor noted that significant efforts have been put in over the past months to restore normalcy and ensure that Manipur progresses on the path of peace, stability, and inclusive development.
The Governor 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 youth, particularly those who have been displaced, Bhalla said.
Bhalla stated that it is vital for the youth to understand "our history" and 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, Bhalla added.
The Governor shared that the State has launched "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 said.
The Governor urged the youth to contribute towards building a better Manipur and uphold the ideals of justice, equality, and brotherhood.
He 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 and Congress leader O Ibobi Singh, Lok Sabha MP Angomcha Bimol Akoijam, MLAs, Chief Secretary Prashant Kumar Singh, DGP Rajiv Singh and other senior civil and police officers attended the observance.