How Did the Maram Naga Delegation Address Their Cultural Concerns with Manipur Governor?
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Synopsis
A four-member delegation from the Maram Naga tribe met with Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla to express their cultural concerns and advocate for the preservation of their traditional heritage, emphasizing the importance of their identity and the need for government support in their initiatives.
Key Takeaways
- The Maram Naga community is advocating for the preservation of their cultural heritage.
- Government initiatives like PM JANMAN aim to support PVTGs.
- Recognition of traditional systems is crucial for the community's identity.
- Women's empowerment through SHGs is a focus area in the community.
- The Maram language is part of the Sino-Tibetan family.
Imphal, Dec 19 (NationPress) On Friday, a delegation comprising four members of the Maram Naga tribal community engaged in discussions with Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla regarding their ethnic and cultural issues, advocating for the safeguarding and maintenance of their traditional heritage.
An official from Lok Bhavan reported that the representatives from the Maram Union elaborated on the grievances and difficulties encountered by the tribal group.
The delegates brought attention to matters concerning the acknowledgment and documentation of the Maram's traditional systems, conservation of monoliths and heritage sites, encouragement of the Maram dialect, assistance with cultural festivals, and advancement of horticultural initiatives.
During her recent visit to Manipur on December 11-12, President Droupadi Murmu visited the Naga tribal-dominated Senapati district. Referring to the PM JANMAN (Pradhan Mantri Janjati Adivasi Nyaya Maha Abhiyan) scheme, she expressed optimism that these initiatives would enhance the lives of tribal communities, particularly the Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs).
The PM JANMAN initiative encompasses 75 PVTG communities across 18 states and one Union Territory, with interventions from nine ministries to deliver benefits like solar energy, mobile connectivity, road infrastructure, and skill development.
President Murmu acknowledged that the Maram Naga tribe is the only PVTG community located in Manipur.
"I fully empathize with your concerns and your aspirations for a peaceful and prosperous future. I reaffirm the Indian Government’s dedication to the welfare and advancement of the people of Manipur, including those residing in tribal areas. Let us collaborate for a peaceful and thriving Manipur," she remarked.
The PM JANMAN program, launched in November 2023 by the Union Ministry of Tribal Affairs, aims to elevate the socio-economic status of PVTGs by providing essential amenities, bridging gaps in development, and ensuring access to basic services such as housing, clean water, healthcare, education, and connectivity.
The Maram people, also referred to as Maram Nagas, belong to a unique Tibeto-Burman Naga tribe predominantly found in Senapati district of Manipur.
They are distinguished by their rich culture, agricultural practices such as jhum and terrace farming, and spiritual traditions, including the Punghi and Kanghi festivals that celebrate nature worship. Recent community efforts have centered around conservation and empowering women through Self-Help Groups (SHGs).
The Maram Nagas communicate using the Maram language, part of the Sino-Tibetan language family, and are recognized as a Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG).
Point of View
It's vital to recognize the ongoing efforts of the Maram Naga community in safeguarding their cultural identity. Their meeting with the Governor signifies a proactive approach toward addressing their concerns. The government's commitment to PVTGs underscores the importance of inclusivity in development initiatives, ensuring that no community is left behind.
NationPress
20/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the PM JANMAN scheme?
The PM JANMAN scheme, initiated by the Union Ministry of Tribal Affairs, aims to uplift the socio-economic conditions of Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) through essential facilities and services.
Who are the Maram Naga?
The Maram Naga are a distinct Tibeto-Burman tribal group primarily residing in Manipur's Senapati district, known for their unique culture and agricultural practices.
What issues did the Maram delegation raise with the Governor?
The delegation highlighted concerns regarding the recognition of their traditional systems, preservation of heritage sites, promotion of their dialect, and support for cultural festivals.
Why is the Maram community classified as PVTG?
The Maram community is classified as a Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group due to their unique socio-economic challenges and cultural characteristics that require special attention and support.
What initiatives are being taken for women's empowerment in the Maram community?
Recent initiatives include the establishment of Self-Help Groups (SHGs) aimed at empowering women through skill development and economic independence.
