SILCHAR, November 3: The 25th annual conference of the All Assam Manipuri Students’ Union (AAMSU) was held today at B.R. Ambedkar Hall, Park Road, bringing together student leaders, intellectuals, and dignitaries. The conference served as a platform to discuss key issues affecting the Manipuri community in Assam. This year’s theme, ‘Socio-Political Integration of Manipuris and the Role of Students’, highlighted the importance of student participation in shaping the future of the community.
Key Guests and Their Addresses
The conference was graced by A. Nanda Babu Singha (ACS), Principal and Controller of Examinations, Assam Public Service Commission, Guwahati, who attended as the chief guest. In his speech, he emphasized the significance of education, leadership, and political awareness among Manipuri youth. He encouraged students to actively engage in community development and work towards equal representation in state politics.
Another notable attendee was Th. Benu Nanu Singha, President of Manipuri Sahitya Parishad, Assam, who attended as a special guest. He highlighted the role of language and culture in strengthening Manipuri identity and urged students to work towards preserving their heritage while advocating for their rights.
Conference Proceedings and Resolutions
The conference was part of a two-day event that commenced on Saturday at Assam Manipuri Kala Academy, Itkhola. Delegates, scholars, and students engaged in in-depth discussions focusing on pressing concerns such as political representation, education, employment, and infrastructure development. Several resolutions were passed, outlining key action points for the upcoming year.
A key resolution was the demand for political reservation. AAMSU leaders reiterated their stance that at least three seats in the Assam State Legislative Assembly should be reserved for the Manipuri community. They argued that despite being a significant ethnic group in the state, Manipuris remain underrepresented in legislative decision-making.
Formation of the New Executive Body
One of the most important outcomes of the conference was the formation of a new 41-member executive body for the 2013–14 term. The newly elected leadership will lead initiatives aimed at addressing student and community concerns. The key office bearers are:
- President: Seram Herajit
- Vice-President: Meisnam Ningamba
- General Secretary: Pahangambam Nilkanta
The newly appointed leaders expressed their commitment to advocating for student rights, pushing for infrastructural development, and ensuring better representation for the Manipuri community in Assam’s governance.
Demand for Infrastructure Development
Apart from political representation, the conference also highlighted the long-pending infrastructural projects that have faced repeated delays. AAMSU leaders urged the government to expedite the completion of:
- Silchar–Lumding broad-gauge conversion: A crucial railway project that would improve connectivity and trade.
- East–West Corridor project: A major infrastructure initiative expected to boost economic growth and regional accessibility.
Speakers emphasized that delays in these projects have negatively impacted businesses, education, and daily commuting, making it imperative for authorities to take immediate action.
Upcoming Silver Jubilee Celebrations
AAMSU also announced that it will be celebrating its Silver Jubilee in July 2014, marking 25 years of its establishment. Plans are underway for grand celebrations, including cultural events, seminars, and discussions on Manipuri identity, history, and progress. The Union aims to use this milestone to reflect on past achievements and chart a course for the future.
Notable Attendees
Apart from the chief and special guests, the conference saw the presence of several eminent personalities, including:
- L. Surendra Singha, President of AAMSU
- Prof. O. Churamani Singha, President of the Manipuri Benevolent Society, Assam
Their participation added depth to the discussions, and they encouraged students to be proactive in addressing the challenges faced by the Manipuri community.
Conclusion
The 25th annual conference of AAMSU was a resounding success, providing a platform to address key issues while setting the agenda for the future. The resolutions passed, including the demand for political reservation and infrastructure development, will serve as the foundation for AAMSU’s advocacy efforts in the coming year. With the Silver Jubilee on the horizon, the Union looks forward to further strengthening its role in championing the rights and welfare of Manipuris in Assam.