Manipur Has a Special Place in the Hearts of All Indians, Says President

The President of India, Shri Pranab Mukherjee attended the Diamond Jubilee Celebrations of Adimjati Shiksha Ashram at Imphal today (April 15, 2013).

Speaking on the occasion, the President said Manipur has a special place in the hearts of all Indians. In the history of our struggle against colonialism, the King of Manipur was amongst the last to surrender to the British. Manipur was the first place liberated from the British by the Indian National Army led by Netaji Subash Chandra Bose. Leaders such as Bir Tikendrajit Singh and Rani Gaidinliu from Manipur have made great contribution to India’s Independence movement.

The President said the objective of freedom was not mere transfer of power but freedom from political slavery, economic bondage and cultural stagnation. He said many parts of the north east have not got the full benefit of the process of development that was initiated through our five year plans. This deficiency should be made up through collective effort and contribution.

This release issued at 2025 hrs