Minister of State for Defence Evaluates Initiatives in Kamjong, Manipur
Click to start listening
Synopsis
On April 9, Union Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth reviewed various schemes in Manipur's Kamjong district, discussing local issues with civil society. His visit included meetings with officials and a proposal for a model town to enhance connectivity along the India-Myanmar border.
Key Takeaways
- Union Minister of State for Defence reviewed schemes in Kamjong.
- Proposed a model town to boost connectivity.
- Assam Rifles returned vehicles to owners affected by violence.
- Emphasized collaboration with civil society organizations.
- Highlighted the importance of the Act East Policy.
Imphal, April 9 (NationPress) The Union Minister of State for Defence, Sanjay Seth, conducted a review on the execution of various schemes in Manipur’s Naga-dominant Kamjong district on Wednesday, engaging in discussions regarding the current state situation with several civil society organizations.
The Minister arrived in Imphal for a two-day visit to the northeastern state, known for its ethnic conflicts, and later met with Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla at Raj Bhavan.
The Kamjong district, primarily inhabited by the Naga community, shares an unfenced boundary with Myanmar and has frequently experienced protests against the fencing of the international border.
Upon his arrival in Kamjong District, Seth was welcomed by the Deputy Commissioner of Kamjong, Rangnamai Rang Peter, and local MLA Leishiyo Keishing.
During the discussions, the MoS Defence met with the District Level Officers (DLOs) who provided updates on the various government schemes.
An interaction session with members of Self-Help Groups (SHGs) was also conducted.
The District Administration presented a proposal for creating a model town at K Ashang Khullen Aze (KAKA) to enhance the ‘Act East Policy’ with respect to connectivity and infrastructural advancements along the India-Myanmar Border, aiming to convert it into a vibrant international corridor.
This initiative is expected to provide urban amenities and opportunities within the border region, with the DC expressing that it will bolster trade and commerce across the border villages, emerging as a ‘Growth Point’, according to an official statement.
This meeting included DLOs from 26 departments and representatives from 35 SHGs.
In a related event, the Assam Rifles held a significant gathering in Sugnu of Kakching District, reaffirming their ongoing commitment to humanitarian service and peace within Manipur.
In a dignified yet uplifting ceremony, six vehicles—including three JCBs, one truck, and two two-wheelers—were returned to their rightful owners after being retrieved and safeguarded during the escalating violence of May-June 2023.
The vehicle owners had to abandon their possessions due to the conflict. Demonstrating remarkable determination, the Assam Rifles successfully recovered and preserved the vehicles.
Earlier in January, individuals had sought the assistance of the Assam Rifles regarding the status of these vehicles, but they were found to be unserviceable, and the security situation prevented safe movement.
Over nearly one and a half years, the Assam Rifles worked diligently to identify the legitimate owners, restore the vehicles to working order, and arrange for their safe transportation.
Senior officials from the Assam Rifles and the Manipur government attended the event, which was graced by the presence of around 300 locals and representatives from civil society organizations, showcasing a strong collaboration between the security forces, civil administration, and the community.
This initiative symbolizes the essence of compassion and unity, further establishing the Assam Rifles as the true ‘Friends of the North East’, a force committed not only to security but also to uplifting lives across the region.
