Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh hosted a grand Ningol Chakkouba feast for over 4,000 internally displaced persons (IDPs) from relief camps in Imphal West district. The celebration, held on Sunday, aimed to bring warmth and solidarity to those affected by the recent ethnic unrest that displaced thousands across the state.
The event took place at the Relief Camp Coordination Office in Imphal West, where Chief Minister Biren Singh personally interacted with families, shared traditional food, and offered words of reassurance. He said the state government remains committed to helping every displaced family rebuild their lives and return to their homes.
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Celebration of tradition and togetherness
The Ningol Chakkouba feast, one of Manipur’s most cherished festivals, traditionally celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters. Married women, known as “Ningols,” visit their parental homes to share meals and gifts with their brothers and families. This year, however, the spirit of the festival extended beyond individual families, embracing thousands of displaced people who have been living away from their homes for months.
Chief Minister Biren Singh said that the government’s intention was to ensure that the IDPs did not feel left out during this important festival. “Even in difficult times, we must celebrate our culture and care for one another. Ningol Chakkouba is not just a festival; it’s a reminder of unity and compassion,” he stated.
Women and children from various relief camps participated enthusiastically in the event. Many expressed gratitude for the opportunity to celebrate despite their challenging circumstances. Volunteers from different organizations and government departments worked together to serve traditional Manipuri delicacies to all attendees.
Relief and rehabilitation efforts continue
Biren Singh also took the opportunity to review ongoing relief efforts for IDPs. He said that rehabilitation remains one of the state government’s top priorities. Over the past few months, authorities have been working to restore normalcy in violence-affected regions and ensure that displaced families receive proper shelter, food, and healthcare.
The Chief Minister said his administration is accelerating the reconstruction of damaged homes and public facilities. He added that peace talks and community-level reconciliation programs are being organized to promote understanding and trust among affected groups.
“We have made progress, but there is still work ahead,” Biren Singh said. He assured the people that the government will not rest until every displaced person safely returns to their home. His statement received a warm response from attendees, many of whom shared their hope for peace and stability.
Human touch in governance
The Ningol Chakkouba feast hosted by the Chief Minister showcased a deeply human approach to governance. By sharing food and conversation with displaced families, Biren Singh emphasized the importance of empathy in political leadership.
Officials accompanying him said the event was not only symbolic but also practical in strengthening the bond between the government and the people. Senior ministers, local MLAs, and administrative officers joined the event, serving food and distributing gifts among the women and children.
The Chief Minister highlighted that emotional well-being is as vital as material aid for displaced communities. “Festivals like Ningol Chakkouba remind us that our strength lies in our relationships. This feast is a message that no one is forgotten,” he remarked.
Voices from the relief camps
Several IDPs spoke about how the event brought a sense of hope and belonging. A woman from Churachandpur district said she felt emotional attending the Ningol Chakkouba feast hosted by the Chief Minister. “It feels like we are back home, even if just for a day,” she said.
Children at the event enjoyed games and cultural performances organized by local youth groups. Traditional dance and music filled the atmosphere, turning the relief camp into a vibrant space of celebration. Many participants said they were grateful to see the Chief Minister personally visiting and listening to their concerns.
Volunteers from various NGOs said that the event helped boost morale among camp residents. They noted that such gestures can go a long way in restoring confidence and bridging divides in a post-conflict environment.
Strengthening community harmony
Biren Singh used the occasion to call for unity among all communities in Manipur. He said that despite the hardships of the past months, people must continue to believe in peaceful coexistence. “Manipur’s beauty lies in its diversity. Let us preserve that by standing together,” he urged.
He also mentioned that the government is planning to initiate more cultural events and skill development programs for displaced women and youth. These efforts aim to empower them economically and help them rebuild their livelihoods once they return home.
The Chief Minister added that the state will soon roll out a special assistance package for families who lost their houses or sources of income during the unrest. He encouraged people to participate actively in rebuilding the social fabric of Manipur through community cooperation.
A message of hope for Manipur
The Ningol Chakkouba feast in Imphal West carried a message of hope and healing for thousands who have endured months of uncertainty. By combining the spirit of the festival with the purpose of relief, the event stood as a reminder that compassion remains at the heart of Manipur’s resilience.
As the day came to an end, attendees returned to their camps with smiles and full hearts. For many, the simple act of sharing a meal with the Chief Minister was a powerful symbol of recognition and care.
Biren Singh concluded the event with an appeal to all communities to work together for lasting peace. “Our people have suffered enough. It is time to rebuild our homes and our trust,” he said.
The celebration not only honored Manipuri culture but also reaffirmed the government’s dedication to rebuilding lives through empathy and unity. The Ningol Chakkouba feast thus became more than a traditional event—it became a moment of connection, hope, and shared strength for the people of Manipur.
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