The Sahitya Seva Samiti, Kakching (Manipur), while continuing its longstanding service to society through literature, celebrated its 59th foundation anniversary by organising a commemorative programme and releasing its annual literary honours today. The event was held at the multipurpose hall of the Library and Information Centre, Kakching, located at Phousupat Leikai.
The programme was attended by distinguished personalities including Secretary, Youth Affairs & Sports, MI and CADA, Government of Manipur, Shri Naorem Praveen (IAS); Principal Commissioner of Income Tax, Kolkata, Smt. Naorem Banita (IRS); former Vice-Chancellor of Dhanamanjuri University, Imphal, Prof. Nongmaithem Rajmohon; and President of Sahitya Seva Samiti, Kakching, Shri Kshetri Bir, among others.
During the programme, the Samiti released its annual literary magazine “Chumthang”, which is published every year as part of the organisation’s literary activities, and formally presented it to the gathering.
On the occasion, several prestigious literary awards for the year 2025 were conferred upon eminent writers:
Yambem Mani Sahitya Award 2025 (for criticism and short stories) was awarded to Ningombam Nando of Ghari Makha Leikai for his book “Manipuri Khorirolda Lannai Mityeng”.
Yendrembam Surlata Award 2025 (for novels and short stories) was awarded to Keithellakpam Landan of Pourabi Awang Leikai for his work “Amanba Hee” (short story collection).
Chingkhu Moirangleima Ningshing Kabidas Award 2025 (for poetry) was awarded to Kirtichand Luwang of Wabagai Terapishak.
Ksh. Chaoba Translation Award 2025 was awarded to Laishram Memo of Liwa Road for translating Manik Bandopadhyay’s novel “Padma Nadir Majhi” into Manipuri under the title “Padma Turelgee Hihonba”.
Ksh. Nalini Sahitya Award 2025 (for senior Manipuri writers residing outside Manipur) was awarded to Lambam Birendra of Assam for his poetry collection “Mangalgee Lambida”.
Yendrembam Godhadhar Ningshing Award 2025 (for autobiography, biography, travelogue and drama) was awarded to Yumnam Achouba of Langmeidong Mamang Leikai, Kakching District, for his work “Uchek Langmeidong”.
Each award comprised a cash prize of ₹10,000, a citation, a memento, and traditional shawls and attire.
The programme concluded with appreciation for the continued contribution of Sahitya Seva Samiti, Kakching, towards the promotion and preservation of Manipuri literature over the past 59 years.
