Lakhipuronline Digital Desk, 8 August 2026:
Against the bustling backdrop of Silchar, Rajiv Bhawan transformed into a vibrant epicentre of cultural pride and communal solidarity on August 7. The Young Manipuri Council Assam (YMCA) convened to mark its Foundation Day, an event that resonated far beyond a simple annual gathering. It stood as a powerful testament to the community’s resilience, highlighting a deep-rooted commitment to social welfare, grassroots empowerment, and the enduring legacy of Manipuri culture across the region.
The Barak Valley—comprising Cachar, Hailakandi, and the newly named Sribhumi district—is home to a historically significant Manipuri diaspora. Tracing their settlement in the region back to the 18th and 19th centuries, following historical migrations and royal alliances, the Manipuri community has woven itself seamlessly into the socio-economic tapestry of Southern Assam. Despite the passage of time and the pressures of assimilation, the community has fiercely guarded its linguistic and cultural identity. Today, socio-cultural bodies like the YMCA function as vital custodians of this heritage, bridging the gap between ancestral traditions and the aspirations of the modern youth in Assam.
Leadership and the Call for Social Responsibility
According to updates from the organizing committee, the ceremonial proceedings were anchored by YMCA President Shri Romen Luwang. The atmosphere was elevated by the presence of distinguished academia and social leaders who took the stage to address the evolving challenges and opportunities facing the diaspora.
Prof. H. Nani Kumar Singha, Dean of the Rabindranath Tagore School of Indian Languages and Cultural Studies at Assam University, Silchar, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. In his address, he drew attention to the critical need for linguistic preservation and the continuous transmission of cultural values to the younger generation.
He was joined by an esteemed panel of Guests of Honour who represent the intellectual and social backbone of the region. Among them were Dr. Y. Manidhan, Head of the History Department at S. S. College, Hailakandi; Shri R. K. Sanahal, President of the Athauba Nishing Loop; Smt. K. Aruna Devi, President of the All Assam Manipuri Women Meirapaibi Coordination Committee; and Dr. Raju Khumujam, Head of Information Technology at N. C. College, Badarpur.
"The survival of any community's unique identity relies not just on remembering the past, but on taking active, collective responsibility for the future," echoed the sentiment across the leadership panel, urging a proactive approach toward community development.
Honouring the Pillars of the Community
A central pillar of the Foundation Day celebrations was the recognition of individuals who have dedicated their lives to the upliftment of the Manipuri society in Assam. The YMCA conferred the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award for Social Service upon seven veteran activists. These leaders have spent decades navigating the complex socio-political landscape of the Barak Valley to advocate for their people. The revered recipients included:
- Shri Khomdram Ashwini Kumar Singh
- Shri Kangabam Gourmani Singh
- Shri Yumnam Mani Singha
- Shri M. Surjya Kumar Sarma
- Shri I. Binode Singh
- Shri Thingom Benu Babu Singha
- Shri Kangabam Shantee Kumar Singh
Matriarchal Strength: The Meira Paibi Legacy in Assam
The socio-cultural fabric of the Manipuri community is inherently driven by its women. The Meira Paibi (Women Torchbearers) movement, which originated in the Imphal Valley as a grassroots justice initiative, has a profound parallel presence in Cachar and Hailakandi. These women act as the moral compass of the community, safeguarding human rights and maintaining social harmony.
Acknowledging this indomitable matriarchal strength, the YMCA presented the Women Safeguard and Empowerment Award to two stalwart Meira Paibi leaders: Smt. R. K. Kulabati Devi and Smt. Bimola Sharma. Their unwavering dedication to protecting women's rights and ensuring community welfare remains a guiding light for many in the region.
Expanding on grassroots economic empowerment, the council also spotlighted the vital role of rural women in driving financial independence. The Panthoibi Self Help Group and Hailakandi's Chanura Chaukhat Loop were honoured for their exceptional groundwork in fostering socio-economic stability for women at the village level.
Fostering the Next Generation
While honouring the past, the YMCA kept a firm eye on the future. The economic landscape of Northeast India is rapidly shifting, requiring new avenues of self-reliance. To champion this shift, the Young Entrepreneurs Award was bestowed upon Shri Khomdram Rajkumar Singha and Shri Yumnam Jibanlal Singha. Both innovators were celebrated for their entrepreneurial acumen, serving as prime examples that economic empowerment is intrinsically linked to community progress.
Moments of Reflection and Cultural Splendour
Before the formal sessions concluded, a heavy silence fell over Rajiv Bhawan. The gathering observed two minutes of silence to honour the late Shri Yumnam Nadia Chand Singha of Singerband, Cachar. A beloved social activist, his lifelong dedication continues to ripple through the community. The YMCA passed a formal condolence resolution, sending heartfelt sympathies to his family and paying deep respect to his enduring legacy.
As the evening approached, the tone shifted from formal reverence to vibrant celebration. A spectacular cultural showcase took centre stage, displaying the artistic dynamism of the Manipuri people. The highlight of the evening was an electrifying performance by the Fireflies Rock Band, hailing from Chandpur, Sonai. Their energetic set beautifully bridged traditional Manipuri rhythms with contemporary musical styles, leaving the audience enthralled.
The YMCA Foundation Day was more than a ceremonial retrospective; it was a blueprint for the future. By honouring the elders, empowering the women, and encouraging the youth, the council reaffirmed its vital role in ensuring that the Manipuri heritage continues to thrive and evolve across Assam.
✍️ Published by Lakhipuronline Team
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