Efforts Underway by Centre and State to Restore Harmony in Manipur: CM Biren Singh
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Synopsis
On February 8, CM N Biren Singh highlighted the collaboration between the state government and the Centre in restoring peace in Manipur during the DGAR Polo Championship's closing ceremony. He emphasized developmental projects and welfare initiatives while promoting the protection of the Manipuri pony and traditional polo.
Key Takeaways
- Joint efforts by state and Centre to restore peace.
- Developmental activities intensified across Manipur.
- Indigenous polo tournaments launched to preserve cultural heritage.
- Community support sought for protecting Manipuri ponies.
- Championship showcased unity and sportsmanship amid challenges.
Imphal, Feb 8 (NationPress) The state government, in partnership with the Centre, is committed to restoring peace and normalcy in Manipur, Chief Minister N Biren Singh announced on Saturday.
Speaking at the culmination of the DGAR (Director General Assam Rifles) Men and Women Polo Championship-2025, the Chief Minister noted that both the state and central governments have undertaken numerous initiatives to stabilize conditions in the valley and hilly regions.
“In addition to reestablishing normalcy, we have also ramped up developmental projects throughout the state. The government has implemented numerous welfare initiatives aimed at benefiting all segments of society,” Singh remarked. He highlighted that various programs have been initiated to protect and preserve the Manipuri pony, emphasizing that the roots of modern polo trace back to Manipur.
He mentioned that a grazing area spanning 30 acres has been designated at Lamphelpat in the Imphal West district, along with other grazing grounds being developed, including one at Pangei in Imphal East.
The Chief Minister also indicated the launch of an indigenous polo tournament, the Chief Minister’s Sagol Kangjei Championship, aimed at preserving and promoting ‘Sagol Kangjei’, the traditional polo game of Manipur. He expressed gratitude to the Army and Assam Rifles for organizing various polo tournaments, stating that these efforts would significantly contribute to the promotion of polo and the protection of Manipuri ponies.
Singh, who has a background in football, emphasized the necessity of hosting such tournaments annually. He reaffirmed that the government is striving diligently to restore peace and ensure harmonious coexistence among the populace as it once was. He called for the community's support in protecting the pony.
During the closing ceremony, Singh recognized veteran polo players for their significant contributions to the sport. The DGAR Men & Women Polo Championship 2025, which began on January 20, concluded on Saturday with the Chief Minister gracing the event as the chief guest.
A defense spokesperson remarked that the Polo Championship exemplifies the enduring spirit of sportsmanship, unity, and camaraderie, illustrating how sports can overcome divides and foster goodwill among communities. The tournament serves as a beacon of hope, particularly in light of the disturbances that have disrupted normal life for the past 21 months.
“By offering a platform for young athletes to engage and connect, the tournament has made a profound impact on the community,” the spokesperson stated.
The closing ceremony was attended by Ministers L. Susindro Meitei and H. Dingo, MLAs Soroikhaibam Rajen and Khongbantabam Ibomcha, Director General of Assam Rifles Lt Gen Vikas Lakhera, and several senior Assam Rifles officials, among others.
