Imphal, Aug 15 (UNI) Manipur today observed the 73rd Independence day under tight security.
Chief Minister N Biren Singh unfurled the tricolour at the 1st Manipur Rifles parade ground and took the salute of about 66 contingents of students, security personnel.
N Biren said the state is moving forward with equal opportunities provided to those in far-flung areas and city.
For the first time, internet facilities were provided in interior areas. Manipur known for the famous women’s market has now seven new women markets in the district headquarters also.
He further said the government is fighting to root out the social evils especially drug. The CM said,
“Our freedom was earned through the sweat and sacrifices of the great leaders of India’s struggle for freedom. Today, we remember them and the ideals they set before us to achieve in the days ahead.”
He added, “let's all work together for a peaceful, prosperous and powerful Nation with love for our Motherland in our hearts, forgetting all our differences and remembering the sacrifice made by our forefathers who gave us this freedom.”
Governor, Dr Najma Heptulla said in a message, “On this day, we remember and pay homage to those leaders and their millions of followers who made sacrifices during the long freedom struggle.” During the last more than 70 years after independence, India has made great strides in all fields and is aiming to be in the comity of leading nations of the world.”
Chief Minister also honoured state officials, personnel for their exemplary services. “Presidents’ Police Medal for Distinguished Service” was given to Thaimei Gaipuril Kabui, MPS (retired), “Police Medal for Meritorious Service” conferred to Loitongbam Ranjit Singh, Subedar, Narengbam Kumar Singh, Havildar, and Longjam Deben Singh, Havildar.
For displaying heroic acts and extraordinary courage during the rescue mission at Mapithel Dam on April 28, in which three civilians were drowned and nine rescued when their boats capsized, L.M. Raingam, Jims Jajo, Mk. Joshua and Vr. Abel was honoured.
The recipients of the “Union Home Minister’s Medal for Excellence in Police Training 2016-2017” were Songlianthang Vaiphei, Inspector, Yumnam Manglemjao Singh, Havildar.
The recipients of the “Chief Minister’s Trophy for Community Service, 2019” were Victoria Yengkhom, Superintendent of Police; Kakching Ng. Anthony Suresh, Inspector, OC-CCP; Churachandpur district and Tm. Simala Begum.
The recipients of the “Chief Minister’s Trophy for Anti-Drug Campaign, 2019” were W. Basu Singh, Superintendent of Police; NAB, Meena Kumari Devi, and R. Salouni Reubin.
The celebrations were done under tight security as CorCom, ULFA-I announced a boycott of the 73rd Independence Day Celebrations of India in the entire region with a General Strike starting from 130 hours of August 15 to 1830 hours. Due to the strike, there was a total shut down and streets were completely deserted.
The observations were also held in all district headquarters with the District Commissioners unfurling the tricolour. The weather was stormy and there was heavy rainfall in some districts. The observations went on in spite of the rain.
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