Manipur commemorated its 54th Statehood Day with a grand celebration led by Chief Minister N. Biren Singh, who urged citizens to join hands in eradicating the drug menace from the state. Highlighting the achievements of the BJP-led administration, the Chief Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to improving healthcare, education, and infrastructure, particularly in roads and transport.
Addressing the gathering, Biren emphasized the need for harmony among Manipur’s diverse communities. “By recognizing our shared culture and history, Manipur can evolve into a more developed and disciplined society,” he stated, encouraging citizens to appreciate and understand each other’s histories.
The event saw the presentation of the Lifetime Achievement Award to renowned theatre personality Ratan Thiyam for his exceptional contributions to arts and literature. Additionally, Chief Minister Biren Singh honoured Akhilesh Kumar Singh, IPS, along with five Assam Police officers, acknowledging their role in training Manipur’s IRB personnel last year.
In recognition of their efforts, the Manipur State Government honoured nine personnel from Assam Police for their exemplary contribution to training nearly 2,000 Manipur police recruits at the Lachit Barphukan Police Academy (LBPA) in Golaghat District. IGP Akhilesh Kumar Singh, who participated in the celebrations at the invitation of the Manipur Government, received a Letter of Appreciation from Chief Minister N. Biren Singh during the event. He also extended his wishes on Manipur’s Statehood Day, noting that the training initiative was a significant step towards strengthening the capabilities of law enforcement in the region.
In a poignant moment, the wife of the late SDPO Chingtham Anandkumar, who was tragically assassinated by militants in 2023 at Moreh, was recognized and honoured during the ceremony.
Earlier in the day, the Chief Minister inspected a march-past parade, which was led by Laishram Sarita, MCS officer and former world boxing champion, adding a moment of pride and inspiration to the state-level event.
