It’s high time that we all recall Sardar Patel, the man who worked relentlessly to unite India, and should collectively work towards a united Manipur in the truest possible way, YAS and water resources minister Letpao Haokip said.
TFM Desk
YAS and water resources minister Letpao Haokip feels that the larger society in Manipur seems to have “political imbroglios” in which communities want their share of sovereignty or autonomy. “It’s high time that we all recall Sardar Patel, the man who worked relentlessly to unite India, and should collectively work towards a united Manipur in the truest possible way”, he said.
Letpao was speaking as the chief guest of the inaugural function of the 6th DBASA (Dingpi Border Area Sporting Association) Sports Meet at New Samtal village, Chandel district on January 12.
According to a press release, Letpao Haokip opined that the present generation needs to imbibe and follow the ideals and spirit of Sardar Vallabhai Patel, who epitomises unity and oneness. He also expressed concern over the growing trends of communities in Manipur demanding separate homelands.
The YAS minister stated that sporting events, especially in remote areas of the state, will help in tapping the talents among the youth. This will also help in bringing them up to bigger platforms and better opportunities, he said.
The minister stressed on the importance of discipline in order to excel in sports, and in every other aspects of life as well. Letpao also mentioned that the state government is committed to bringing about development to the interior areas of the state such as New Samtal.
Citing the immense role played by the Indian Army in bringing development to remote areas of Manipur, the minister expressed gratitude to the Indian Army for being a ‘good friend’ to the people of hill areas.
Later, Letpao along with Col Manish Sharma handed over various sports items to the members of DBASA. The items were sponsored by the 13 AR Sehlon, the release added.
The DBASA Sports Meet will go on till January 18, and is an annual sports meet of the border villages belonging to Khengjoi sub-division of Chandel district.
18-Songjang ADC member Seithang Haokip was the president of the function. Khengjoi SDO N Shokhongam Baite; Chakpikarong SDO Seiminthang Lenthang; Chandel Addl SP Augustine Khongjai; and 13 AR Sehlon SM CO Col Manish Sharma, were the other dignitaries present.
Earlier on Monday afternoon, Letpao Haokip also cut the ribbon for the inauguration of the Pu Ngulkhup Haokip Memorial Park, Anglo-Kuki Rebellion Hero 1917-1919 at Lonpi (Mombi) village, Chandel district.