Imphal : Manipur today joined the nation in celebrating Gandhi Jayanti and National Cleanliness Day 2020.
Chief minister N Biren Singh led others in paying floral tributes to the statue of Mahatama Gandhi at Gandhi Memorial Hall in Imphal city.
Speaking to reporters on the side-lines of the occasion, Biren mentioned Mahatama Gandhi for his struggle for independence from the clutches of British colonialism.
In recognition of Gandhi’s philosophy of Ahimsa, the International Day of Non-Violence is being observed under the aegis of United Nations across the world, added the CM.
He also flagged off “India Cycle4Change Challenge” from City Convention Center, Konung Mamang, here. The rally is to spread Gandhi’s principles and ideals to the people of the state.
Along with his cabinet colleagues, including sports minister Letpao Haokip social welfare minister Okram Henry, Biren also inspected the work progress for setting up of a Covid Care Centre at Bal Bhawan, Khuman Lampak sports complex here.
The Assam Rifles (AR) also celebrated Gandhi Jayanti at different places of the state to remember the unforgettable contribution of the Father of Nation towards freedom struggle with peace and non-violence.
The force celebrated Gandhi Jayanti with Jehovah Jireh Children’s Home at the border town of Moreh in Tengnoupal district, said an AR statement.
To enhance skill-development, self-dependence and to boost confidence of kids at the centre, Assam Rifles provided assistance by presenting
sewing-machines and other essential tools to the Children Home to help them establish a handmade mask factory and also placed order for 2000 masks for the troops.
Apart from this, in an attempt to foster a sense of responsibility towards nature among children, a tree plantation drive was also conducted at the Children Home, added the statement.
Assam Rifles also provided 12 Bunk Beds for the Children of Orphange Home, Hnatham village in Chandel district.
The Bunk Beds were handed over to the children by the Commandant, Chandel Battalion, Assam Rifles at the Orphanage Home in Chandel while ensuring COVID-19 protocol.
The project was another initiative of the Assam Rifles after considering the living conditions of the Children, continued the statement.
It was found that due to poor living conditions, the children were prone to various infections. Considering the emergent nature of health of children, Assam Rifles aimed to provide better living conditions to the children.
At Kakching district, the force organised various events, beginning with a speech on the subject “Mohan to Mahatma”.
This was an endeavour to ensure that teachings of Bapuji continue to inspire one and all. This was followed by a painting competition for children to connect children with the ever inspiring teachings and life of Gandhiji. This event witnessed an enthusiastic participation by a total of 22 children.
A tree plantation drive was also carried out wherein a total of 300 saplings were planted, said the statement.
The event concluded with a cleanliness drive maintaining the essence of “Swacch Bharat Abhiyaan”, an issue close to the heart of Gandhiji
who believed in spiritual cleansing not only of India but of the entire world. All the events were conducted adhering to the protocols of CoVID-19.