Governor of Manipur, Ajay Kumar Bhalla, today led the state in paying rich tributes to the bravehearts of the Anglo-Manipur War of 1891 during the Khongjom Day observation held at the Khongjom War Memorial Complex, Thoubal District.
As part of the solemn commemoration, the Governor laid a wreath at the war memorial atop Kheba Hill, leading the gathering in honouring the heroes who laid down their lives defending Manipur’s sovereignty. The ceremony included Guard of Honour, General Salute, Reverse Arms, Sounding of the Last Post, two-minute silence, Slope Arms, and Order Arms, reflecting the deep respect for the departed souls.
The Governor also paid floral tributes to the legendary freedom fighter Paona Brajabashi at his statue at the Kheba foothill, followed by a Gun Salute. He offered Tarpon at the Khongjom River and paid homage through Sankirtan, a traditional spiritual observance.
Addressing the gathering, the Governor condemned the recent terror attack at Pahalgam in Jammu & Kashmir and expressed heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims.
Reflecting on the significance of the day, the Governor said Khongjom Day is a tribute to the brave sons of Manipur who sacrificed their lives in the Anglo-Manipur War of 1891 for the motherland. He described the Battle of Khongjom as a fight not only of arms but also of honour, patriotism, and self-determination, with the indomitable spirit of Manipuri warriors marking a unique chapter in the history of world patriotism.
On the current state of affairs, the Governor noted significant efforts over recent months to restore normalcy and ensure that Manipur progresses on the path of peace, stability, and inclusive development. He highlighted initiatives for the rehabilitation of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in relief camps and mentioned employment opportunities being created for displaced youth under the Ministry of Tourism’s ‘Hunar Se Rojgar’ scheme.
Stressing the importance of education, the Governor said it is vital for young people to understand their history while gaining the skills necessary to thrive in a fast-changing world. He noted the recent inauguration of Information Technology Centres in Kangpokpi, Churachandpur, and Senapati Districts, funded by the Ministry of Home Affairs, as a major step forward in digital empowerment.
He also shared that Manipur has launched the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan to combat substance abuse and promote a drug-free society. In a major boost for rural development, the state has received a record allocation under MGNREGA for the financial year 2025–26 — the highest-ever sanctioned amount for the state under the scheme.
The Governor urged the youth to contribute towards building a better Manipur and to uphold the ideals of justice, equality, and brotherhood. He called upon everyone to honour the legacy of Khongjom by striving to build a stronger, united, and progressive Manipur.
The observation was attended by 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 officials.
