“Even as a small community, we must preserve our unique culture, tradition and identity,” says MLA Dr. S.S. Olish
Chandel, February 6:
The Apunba Conference cum Sports Meet 2026 of the Chothe community, participated in by youths from 19 villages across Manipur, began today at Purum Chumbang Village in Chandel district. The seven-day-long event is being organised by the Chothe Students’ Union, Manipur, with Purum Chumbang Youth Club as the host.
The event is being held under the theme “Preserving Heritage, Inspiring Generations.” MLA of Chandel Assembly Constituency, Dr. S.S. Olish, attended the inaugural function as the Chief Guest. The Principal of Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya (JNV), Chandel, Dr. Amarson Sankhil, attended as Functional President, while Ch. Priscilla Thiumei of the Naga Women’s Union Manipur attended as Guest of Honour, and Thao Malsawm Chothe, President of CLAM (Chothe Lim Abom Manipur), attended as Chief Host.
Addressing the gathering, MLA Dr. S.S. Olish stated that although Chandel is a small district, it is home to many small communities, most of whom are still struggling for development even after more than ten years. He said the Chothe community is numerically small, but this should not lead to discouragement or loss of confidence. Instead, he stressed that even as a small community, the Chothe people must move forward by safeguarding their distinct culture, traditions, and identity.
He further said that as an experienced student leader and public representative, he is aware of the many challenges currently faced by student organisations. He assured that he would extend all possible support from his end to address these issues. Dr. Olish also pointed out that several villages in Chandel district still face serious difficulties due to poor road connectivity and lack of basic infrastructure, especially during emergencies. He appealed to the public to cooperate collectively so that effective assistance can be provided.
Emphasising the importance of preserving heritage, he said that safeguarding one’s heritage is a responsibility that must be shared by all, as it strengthens a sense of belonging among the younger generation. He added that events like this conference and sports meet provide an important platform where students, artists, and intellectuals from different villages come together, exchange ideas, and showcase talents, thereby strengthening unity and cultural identity within the community.
