How Did Assam Rifles Bring Christmas Joy to Manipur?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Assam Rifles organized inclusive Christmas celebrations.
- Events took place across multiple districts in Manipur.
- Focus on building community bonds and sharing joy.
- Activities included gift distribution and cultural performances.
- Initiatives aimed at healing and fostering cultural harmony.
Imphal, Dec 25 (NationPress) Embracing the essence of compassion, goodwill, and unity, the Assam Rifles celebrated Christmas with heartfelt festivities throughout various districts in Manipur on Thursday, enhancing community relationships and spreading joyous celebrations among individuals from diverse backgrounds.
These joyous Christmas events were hosted by the para-military unit across numerous districts in Manipur, notably in areas predominantly inhabited by tribal communities such as Churachandpur, Ukhrul, Chandel, Tengnoupal, along with the Meitei communities of Bishnupur and Imphal districts.
A spokesperson from Defence mentioned that these initiatives, which included festive gatherings at the ethnically affected Internally Displaced People (IDP) camps and outreach in secluded border villages, aimed to bolster social harmony and disseminate happiness among various communities.
In Churachandpur, where the Kuki-Zo tribal community resides, celebrations took place at the Dorcas IDP camp, Bijang Orphanage Home, and Happiness Home in Lanva, reaching over 170 individuals, including around 125 children.
The spokesperson stated that these events featured the distribution of gifts and sweets, fostering an atmosphere of joy for those in relief camps and care facilities.
At the same time, officials and troops organized a social evening for Civil Society Organizations at the Khuga Battalion Headquarters to honor local educators and strengthen mutual confidence.
The festive atmosphere also reached Ukhrul, where students and clergy from the Assam Rifles Centre of Educational Excellence engaged in a lively program comprising prayers, carols, and traditional dances.
Likewise, in the Nambol and Tengnoupal areas, the festivities extended to St. John’s English High School and several remote villages like Ichum Kom and Sadu Chiru.
Children and villagers received gifts and snacks, further cementing the relationship between the security forces and the local communities in border regions.
The celebrations concluded in Chandel district with a two-day event at Sehlon, which included cake-cutting ceremonies, church prayers for regional prosperity, and cultural performances.
In Sajik Tampak and Chakpikarong, personnel conducted door-to-door outreach to distribute hampers, while a festive fair at Saibol Joupi united village leaders and authorities for carols and communal bonfires.
Such festivals are crucial in healing and uniting communities, with these activities serving as a catalyst for cultural unity.
By participating in these celebrations, the local population and approximately 250 involved personnel helped foster a sense of hope, ensuring that the true essence of Christmas—peace and goodwill—is experienced at the grassroots level.