IMPHAL, October 27: The 3rd World Zomi Convention 2013 concluded today on a colourful note of musical extravaganza and message of unity, at Young Paite Association (YPA) Hall, Hiangtam Lamka.
The valedictory function was attended by Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh, as the chief guest alongside Health and Family Welfare minister Phungzathang Tonsing.
Others who attended the function include MLA GS Haupu; Chairman ADC Langkhanpau Guite; members of the UNC; MLA K Guite advisor ZRO; president ZRO Thanglianpau Guite; DC Churachandpur etc.
Delivering his speech, Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh, said that despite many challenges, the Zomis have undergone great social changes which have been far reaching and overwhelming with advancement of science and technology.
“Educated young and old Zo people in their zeal for economic survival and moreover, to rise up and place themselves on the higher echelon gradually made themselves conscious of ‘individuality’ resulting to undermining the age-old ‘khankhua’ which were the core of Zo identity and culture and surprisingly, quite conform to the doctrines of their new found faith ‘Christianity’. Whereas certain outmoded socio culture structures, ways , customs and habits must be relegated others which are constructive, sound and especially those that are relevant and suited to the Zomi ethos ought to be retained”, asserted Ibobi.
He observed that slightly divergent dialects and languages are the spirit of individuality and clannishness rather than stumbling block of ‘total re-unification’ as perceived by many.
The mutual trust and concern for others that are key factors which once bind the ethnic communities of the state is becoming scarce, Ibobi said before adding that the issue needs to be addressed.
Ibobi claimed that Manipur faces with a lot of challenges at this present junction, but these challenges provide lots of opportunities, too.
He exhorted the people to work together to harness this opportunities and achieve the potential of Manipur, the sphere of international trade, sports, tourism, education, art and culture.
While reiterating the intention of his government, the Chief Minister maintained that its main focus is to improve basic infrastructure of power and connectivity interwoven with strength of the co-existence of all communities.
The state government implements various objective to provide “Good Governance” with inclusive growth in a sustainable way both in hills and valley, continued Ibobi.
Noting the potential of the state to become a thriving international trade and tourist destination, he highlighted that both the union and the state governments have taken up various projects including the integrated check post, international fligh services, opening up of Moreh which is nicknamed Gate way to South-East Asia or the “Nongpok Thong Hanbga”.
Concluding his speech, he appealed the tribal councils, civil society representatives, academicians, scholars, to join hands with the government to provide leadership and right direction to the masses.
The concluding day of the convention was marked by musical extravaganza performed by different groups (choirs) including from Myanmar and Mizoram.
Adding as a special attraction to the convention, Okram Lily, daughter of Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Sing also performed a gospel solo.
Meanwhile speaking to IFP, Kamsuanmung leader of the ZYA from Kalemeau, Myanmar said, “The situation in Burma and India are widely varied as the situations in India are more conducive to freedom in all aspect. We are very fortunate to have the opportunity to come here to meet our people. Moreover we are excited and wished that similar convention is organized in the future that can unite the Zomis”.
PC Lalneihtluangan, pastor Choir group, Mizoram, said “We are really impressed by the spirituality of the area and the peaceful environment which is beyond what we expected, we were apprehensive before we arrive here but everything changes when we reached here. But the only sad part is that the road condition of Manipur is pathetic”.