Khalvontawi celebrates its Annual Meet 2011

All roads lead to Arunachal House

“The Thangkhals are moving one step forward”

WITH MUCH enthusiasm, the Khalvontawis in the national capital celebrated the long awaited ‘The 7th Khalvontawi Meet’ on September 13 at Arunachal House Auditorium under the aegis of Khalvontawi Committee Delhi (KVCD). Around 150 people from all the corners turned out to celebrate the annual event. It was a day for the Khalvontawis in which all the roads lead to Arunachal House. Those KVs from Gurgaon boarded the KV Bus at Hauz Khas in time. The Bus reached Munirka pick-up point timely, however, few got in. Many of them were left by the bus. Those people took auto-rickshaw! Some KVs were lost in searching the venue, yet, they managed to reach.

The programme started at 2.48 pm when the comperes, Mr Hangmuanthang and Miss Nianghauching took up their chairs and announced the detail programme. The meet began with ‘TSP Anthem’ as the opening song which was led by The Khalnou Trio singers, assisted by some senior leaders.  This was followed by the humble prayer of Nu Mannuamching, dedicating the day at the hands of the Almighty God. Nu Ching expressed her happiness about the Thangkhals coming together under one umbrella once in a year, after a long gap.

Shortly after that, the compere informed the gathering that “Rev Jangkholun Mangte, Pastor, ZCF Delhi would not be with us due to unavoidable circumstance. In lieu of him, a desirable and affectionate, Rev Jonathan Nehlian, Pastor, ZPCS Delhi will fill-up his role”. Rev Mangte and his family met an accident on the fateful night of September 2 while they were returning home around 11.30 pm after attending Safdarjung Prayer Cell Meeting. On that night, an unidentified car suddenly hit their motorcycle (bike) from behind, leaving all of them lying unconscious on the road. The car fled away from the spot. Luckily, a taxi driver helped them! Pastor’s wife, Ginngaihching injured her head, still in bed. Their two daughters also suffered minor injuries. It is heard that they are recovering gradually.

While welcoming the gatherings, Pu T. Ginlunthang, Chairman, KVCD said: “There are three elements for success – Obedience, Self Confidence and Righteousness. You must be obedience to your parents, teachers and elders. This word is importantly mentioned in the Old Testament and New Testament. So obedience has a big meaning in our life. You must have self-confidence to achieve your aim. You should not forget it. Always remember, without righteousness, you'll land in nowhere. So keep it with you whatever you do or wherever you go”.

KVCD chairman further said that Thangkhal comprised of various clans (beh-le-phung) binded by a dialect called ‘Thangkhal Haam’, which today’s young Khalvontawis cannot ignore it. However, one should not hate nor despise the other. “We cannot neglect our clan, thus we all must be careful in our future endeavours. Let us always strive for brotherhood, peace and harmony”. He added: “KV leaders do not oppose any KV who joins ZSP/SSPP/KZP/KSO, etc. And those KVs are also expected the same. We all are equally important for our society. Let us work together for the upliftment of our people”.

Then a veteran singer and lyricist, Mr Henry T. Mungnou crooned one of his songs, “Khawksa Sese Khang’E”. Mr Mungnou rendered the spirit of joy. The singer magnetized many listeners towards the stage.    

Now comes the time for fresher’s introduction. According to the list, there are 20 new faces, but six boys and six girls lined up to face the music (questions)! Some fresher came for better future, some for career and others for jobs. The host and hostess questioned the fresher interestingly. In some instances, beyond expectations, some fresher overpowered in answering and counter-questioning! This was the fairly funny part. Lots of laughter sparked off during the introduction. Some of the fresher are not timid and introvert at all, they can easily put your head in ‘shame’ before the public eyes! Few of them counter-questioned the compere in a lighter vein. The round of questions has shown many funny moments and gestures!

A man of substance, Rev Jonathan Nehlian, who is the present shepherd (pastor) of Zou Presbyterian Church Synod, Delhi cited scriptures from Joshua 1:5. “Now the fresher are entering into a new world in which they have many things to ‘do’ and ‘dont’ at every step. To achieve one’s goal, one must utilise his/r time effectively by remembering God, the Creator of Heaven and Earth”.

Drawing clues from the life of Daniel, who used to pray thrice a day by opening his window towards the holy city of Jerusalem, Rev Nehlian encouraged the people that Daniel, a man of prayer in the Bible, lived accordingly with the words of God. This is why God blessed Daniel throughout his life. Like him, every one of you, who are presence here, must seek honesty and perseverance, to make one’s life meaningful”.

“You should be self principled and always follow it carefully. So that, you won’t goes astray from your goal. Let your mind should not be tempted by evil things. Always be truthful and honest in your deeds. Then you can say, ‘For Christ and Our Nation’ (The Theme: Toupa Leh I Nam A Di’n),” said Rev Nehlian, encouraging the gathering.  After spiritually nurturing the fresher, Rev Jonathan Nehlian blessed them and prayed for the heavenly blessings.

Then the gospel band – Revival Thunders – Mr Biaklian, singer, Mr Singpi, lead guitarist, Mr Benjamin Samte, bassist and Mr John Mung, drummer rocks the audience with their electrifying sounds and music. The lead singer spellbound gospel number, like heavy metal rock band. The band is indeed the great thunder which ousted all the dullness and laziness from the hall.  The Thunders really thundered every ears and eyes.

Giving tips for the fresher, a senior student leader, Mr Suanliankhup Baite said: “We are the chosen. We left our home where we live in different communal zones. We should not possessed the mentality of our home grown. As we are aware that Manipur is a land of divisive policy, narrow mindedness and tribe-based politics which are detrimental to peace and harmony in the state. Such narrow divisive thoughts should not be practiced here”.

Mr Baite further emphasized that KVs in the capital must be broadminded and studious. “This will add feathers to our community. The prime objective of fresher should be education and career. Don’t try to simply pass your graduate course. Try to grasp the golden opportunity of living in the capital, where there’s ample of chances to get success. Time management is very important for everyone. Thus make personal routine to be followed everyday and night. Your success is our success”. With posing a challenging word to the youngsters, “If the present leaders led you to this stage, then how far will you lead your youngsters in the coming days?” Mr Baite concluded his speech.

The young and beautiful singers Miss Rosie, Miss Ruthi and Miss Kimboi, who were now known as – Khalnou Trio – presented the heart rendering song. The audience love to see them once again. Unfortunately, the Trio never appeared on the stage. “Time was too short. The Trio should be given time to sing at the end. I’m not satisfied,” says, a young boy (name unknown). “That’s true!!” seconded another smart-tall looking guy!! Boy’s begun crazy after the trio sang the sweet song. The Khalnou Trio became the most loveable singers of the day. These little girls were the cynosure of all eyes who have stolen many hearts.

While all the minds with the Trio, there’s another mindboggling – KV NEWS. The special issue of ‘Khal-Vontawi News’ (Motto: Our Dialect is Our Identity), a monthly newsletter in Thangkhal dialect was released by its founding editor and former editor, Bruce K. Thangkhal.

The founder and former editor, KV News expressed his heartfelt thanks to the organisers (KV Leaders/KVCD) for giving the opportunity to release the News. He also appreciated those persons, who rendered selfless service for the birth of KV News. Firstly, Mr Khailianlal @ Khaltal, who had financially supported the founder editor in the first issue, September 2006. Secondly, Mr Jehou Samte and Mr Benson Guite, Computer Owners. The editor used their computer many times for KV News. They came to know each other from Mr Hangminlun Suantak, who had introduced the editor to Jehou and Benson. So far nothing special presentation has been given to them. Looking ahead for another good time!   Thirdly, Mr Mangzamuan @ Mangneu Thangkhal, the backbone of the KV News. Now Mr Hanglamthang, Joint Editor, assisted him. Thanks to the Joint Editor also! Fourthly, Mr Ginlunthang (our chairman), who financially sponsored ‘Khalvontawi Tongsuah’, a magazine in Thangkhal dialect. The first issue appeared in April 2000. The magazine was later renamed as ‘Vaphual’. “These are some of the big names which I owed special thanks. I am really grateful to them,” the founder of KV News said.

KVCD has given awards and presentation to its members who got government jobs. Since its inception, this has been practiced to encourage one another in seeking better employments in the central or state services. Though few succeed in the bygone days, it is expected that many more will comes out with flying colours in the days to come. Mr Thangzakhen, Assistant Manager, Indian Overseas Bank, Mr Khamkholianthang, Tax Assistant, Mr Hanglamthang, Assistant, EPFO and Mr Hausuankhai, Assistant, SBI were few of the torchbearers. The first two were in their posting. The awards were delivered by a veteran KSOD leader, Mr. Lalboi Misao, who is also the Chief of Lhavom Village.

The year 2011 is significant for the Thangkhals. New records were set since the beginning of the year. Thangkhal Bible Church Executive Director and Bible Translator, Rev Ginkhankap landed USA on September 6 to study Doctor of Ministry (D.Min) in Oral Roberts University. Mr Hangkhanlian (s/o Rev. Dalzakam, Imphal) got admitted in BA (Economics) in Shivaji College (DU), Miss Lena Chiinneiniang (d/o Upa Langhaulian, Lamka) admitted for GNM (Nursing) in St Stephen’s Hospital (Delhi), Miss L Merry, as GNM (Nursing) in Andhra Pradesh, Mr Jangkholam (s/o Khupngaihcing, M. Tanglian) received CDSU Topper Awards in Commerce Stream on July 20. He topped CCpur District in 10+2 Commerce. Now he is presently studying Commerce (Hons) in Ramjas College (DU). Miss Tingneilien (d/o T. Goupau, Zomi Colony) cleared Military Nursing (BSC/N) entrance exam and joined the course. Miss Donglemkim (d/o T. Kammuanpau, Zomi Fins lead guitarist & Chief of M.T. Geltam village) cleared AIEEE but she declined, and opted for Clinical, Nutrition and Dietics (Hons) course in Shillong. Now she’s there!  Mr Dany Khuplianlal (s/o S. Dalthang) was selected for Master of Public Health course in United Kingdom, through scholarship provided by The Ford Foundation. Dany is now in UK. Last year, Mr T. Khuplianlam, hailing from T. Khajang village, landed in Japan to further continue Master in Architecture. He is likely to return home with Doctorate Degree. Another KV from Khuangmun village, Mr Kamlianlal recently went for study tour in Japan. He was among the few chosen. Mr Lal is presently doing MPhil in JNU.

While the majority of the Thangkhals are lagging behind the technology and communication, there is a sign of giant leap. The Thangkhal e-Bible Project 2011 which has been undertaken by around twenty Khalvontawis in Delhi is completed recently. They divided the portion of New Testament and each individual is assigned to finish his or her portion within the time frame. Things have been done as scheduled. The project was initiated under the guidance of Pu HangP, a tax assistant, who recently posted in Hyderabad.  The pdf version is now available in Khalvontawi Website (www.thangkhal.blogspot.com). The mobile version of New Testament in Thangkhal dialect is in the pipeline. This will be available in website shortly.

Exhortation speech was given by Mr Kammuanmung, a PhD student in JNU.  “Delhi is the city of opportunity, where you can become great or small. It depends on you. There are many people who returned home in vain. But there are many who achieved their aims and objects. This is the city where many raise to IAS, IPS, IFS, IRS, etc. Now, start from the beginning,” said Mr Mung while encouraging the fresher. He gracefully warned the fresher, saying: “You should know many temptations will come to you. It may be in good or bad, which is really difficult to identify. You should be alert and careful enough to know what is good and what is bad. Otherwise, you won't conquer anything. So my dear brothers and sisters, try to identify the temptation which could drive away your mind and attention”.

For the first time in the capital, a group of youngsters in traditional costumes led by Mr Satpu and Miss Mawite, displayed the Thangkhal Cultural Dance (Pupa Laam) with the folk songs (Sannem La) and bamboo-pipe music (Phit La). This is how the forefathers of Thangkhal sang and dance during the festivals in the olden days. Girls dress is a combination of white, red and green stripes while the boys only worn traditional shawl.

Two great men – Mr Khamsuankhup and Mr Ginmuanlal @ Muanneu – entertained the audience lively and joyfully towards the end of the day. Mr Khup narrated funny jokes while Mr Lal, is a man whose mouth is full of music/sounds. Lal’s mouth can produce any music or sounds like drumming, guitar, etc. Or say anything, than can be possible too! On the other, Mr Khup can turn anything into jokes. These two entertainers have shortened the day. Both are the sources of smiles and laughs. Everyone laughs, some almost burst out their stomach! Some hold their mouth tightly, why?

KVCD Finance Secretary Mr. Hausuankhai gave the financial report. According to the report, the total contribution is Rs. 17,000 and expenditure amounted to Rs. 21,905. The Finance Secretary said, “Mr Pauminlianthang, President, Thangkhal Peoples’ Organisation (H/Q) promised to us that he will contribute Rs. 5,000 as soon as possible”. The organisers also thanked the president for his goodwill and his timely intervention in the need of the hour.

The organiser presented Thangkhal traditional shawl to Rev Jonathan Nehlian as a token of love and gratitude for gracing the function. As appreciation, the shawl was hung around the pastor’s neck by the ‘Mother of Khalvontawi’, Nu Niangdeihchiin, whom the KVs honoured as their own mother.

Too much impressed by the meet, the Mother of KV pours out her happiness and contributed Rs. 1000. Rev. Jangkholun Mangte and his family also contributed two packets of sweet for the celebration.

Then The Revival Thunders once again rocked the entire hall.  It is the traditional way of Thangkhals to make a big exclamation, locally known as ‘Tangsamna’, in the name of great contributors. This happens only when someone had genuinely given a gift. Thus the time for – Slogan - shouting at the highest pitch! Mr Muanneu Thangkhal took the role of ‘Tangsampa’. Before he proceeds, he gave the hints to be followed. The moment Muanneu shouted at the top of his voice: “Nu Chiin in Dangka Tulkhat ung piak manin lungdamhuai mahmah eh mataw!? Pastor Jangkholun in muamkhum ung piak manin lungdamhuai mahmah eh mataw!?” The crowd responded: “Tazen Aw!!!” When Muanneu shouts again, “Valek!.. Valek!! Valek!!!” The crowd responded thunderously: “Tazen Aw! Tazen Aw!! Tazen Aw!!!”

Towards the end, KVCD Secretary Mr Mangzamuan delivered the words of thanks. The secretary left no names by naming one by one. Big thanks to Pu Thangzalun Khuptong for his help! Also thanks to the cameramen, Mr Zoukhanthang and Mr Mamang Baite. Thanks to the Ushers and Volunteers who satisfied the revelers on the day.

While the sun is lowly hanging over the horizon, the daylong fantastic event came to an end successfully with the closing prayer of Rev Jonathan Nehlian at 6.12 pm. Soon after the end of the programme, everyone rushed towards the stage for ‘clicks’. Young girls and boys have been seen posing before the lens in various styles. There seems lightning inside the hall! Oh it was the flashes of digital cameras only, not lightning!!  

Slowly and slowly, the sweet aroma of the delicious meal reached the tip of every nostril. Amazingly, many people disappeared gradually from the auditorium. Those were later seen in bee-line to get that tasty smell – delicious meal – which was served by the Ushers outside the hall in the open compound. Within few minutes from the scene, silence prevails all over. Everyone is busy, yet, goes on chatting! Though, no one wants to part at all. Many of them were seen emotionally sad, somewhere in ‘tears’ at the very end. “Good Bye, See You Again in 2012” is the last word of everyone.

- Bruce K. Thangkhal

KHALVONTAWI MEET ALBUM

KHALVONTAWI MEET was a vibrant reflection of their cultural unity, where everyone warmly welcomed and greeted each other. Such gatherings play a vital role in preserving traditions, strengthening communal bonds, and fostering a sense of belonging among members living away from their homeland.

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--- REPARATIONS FOR KV MEET ----

The Night Before)

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PREPRATIONS

"NUAM MAH MAH EHMAW, MATAW?

T A Z E N  A W !!!!"

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Reserve Bank of India - Officers in Grade ‘B’ (General)- DR

Advertisement for the post of Officers in Grade ‘B’ (General)- DR

LAST DATE : 11.59 P.M. on September 26,2011(ON-LINE)

 6.00 P.M. on October 3,2011. (OFF-LINE)  

Applications (App.) are invited for the post mentioned below in Reserve Bank of India (RBI/Bank) from Indian citizens, citizens of Nepal and subjects of Bhutan, Tibetan refugees (who came over to India before 1st January 1962) and persons of Indian origin who have migrated from Myanmar and Sri Lanka with the intention of permanently settling in India and in whose favour Eligibility Certificates have been issued by Government of India.

Post	Number of Vacancies
	Unreserved i.e. General (GEN)	Scheduled Castes (SC)	Scheduled Tribes (ST)	Other Backward Classes (OBC)	Total
Officers in Grade 'B' (General) (Direct Recruitment - DR)	38	10	09	18	75*

* Out of 75 vacancies mentioned above, 3 vacancies are reserved for candidates belonging to Persons with Disability (PWD) category - one vacancy each for Orthopedically Handicapped (OH), Hearing Impaired (HI) and Visually Handicapped (VH). Persons with Disability may belong to any category - GEN/SC/ST/OBC.

Note: (I) The degree of disability should be (i) minimum 40% in case of Orthopaedically Handicapped persons,(ii) Hearing Impaired are those in whom the sense of hearing is non-functional for ordinary purposes of life. They do not hear, understand sounds at all, even with amplified speech. The cases included in this category will be those having hearing loss more than 60 decibels in the better ear (profound impairment) or total loss of hearing in both ears. The degree of disability should not be less than 40% and (iii) For being considered as a Visually Handicapped candidate the candidate should fulfill either of the following conditions:

(a) Total absence of sight.
(b) With visual acuity not exceeding 6/60 or 20/200 (Snellen) in the better eye with correcting lenses.
(c) With limitation of the field of vision subtending an angle of 20 degrees or worse.

(II) The Persons with Disability (PWD) candidates should possess a latest Certificate to this effect issued by an authorized Government of India/State Government Department/ Hospital.

2    ELIGIBILITYCRITERIA :

(a) Age (as on 01 -09-2011): Between 21 and 30 years (candidates must have been born not earlier than 02/09/1981 and not laterthan 01/09/1990). For candidates possessing M.Phil. and Ph.D. qualification, upper age limit will be 31 and 33 years respectively. For candidates having experience as an officer in Commercial Bank/Financial Institution in Public Sector, upper age limit is relaxed to the extent of number of years of such experience subject to a maximum of three years. For such candidates, upper age limit should not exceed 33 years including experience. For experience, probationary period will not be reckoned. Refer item 4 below for relaxation in upper age limit for specified categories.

(b) Educational Qualifications (as on 01-09 -2011): i) A First Class Bachelor's Degree with a minimum of 60% marks or an equivalent grade OR ii) A Second Class Master's Degree with a minimum of 55% marks or an equivalent grade OR iii) A Doctorate Degree with 50% marks in Master's Degree or equivalent grade OR iv) Chartered/Cost Accountant/Company Secretary (ACS) with a Bachelor's Degree OR v) A Post Graduate Diploma in Management /MBA qualification from institutions recognized by Government of India/ University Grants Commission, with Graduation / Bachelor's Degree.

NOTE: SC/ST/PWD candidates having second class with a minimum of 50% marks or equivalent grade in Bachelor's Degree examination OR having a Post-graduate Degree or equivalent recognized qualification, are eligible to apply.

For detail Advertisement visit RBI site 

SSC Combined Higher Secondary Level (10+2) Examination, 2011

( TO BE PUBLISHED IN THE EMPLOYMENT NEWS / ROZGAR SAMACHAR DATED 20.08.2011 )

STAFF SELECTION COMMISSION

NOTICE

Combined Higher Secondary Level (10+2) Examination, 2011 for recruitment of Data Entry Operator and Lower Division Clerks

Closing Date:16.09.2011 Date of Examination: 04.12.2011

IMPORTANT INSTRUCTIONS TO CANDIDATES 1.	Commission will hold a Combined All India Open Examination for recruitment to the posts of Data Entry Operator and Lower Division Clerk for which 12th Standard Pass or equivalent is the minimum qualification. The Examination will comprise of a Written Objective Type Examination followed by Data Entry Skill Test / Typing Test .
2	The Commission will not undertake detailed scrutiny of applications for the eligibility and other aspects at the time of written examination and, therefore, the candidature is accepted only provisionally. The candidates are advised to go through the requirements of educational qualification, age etc. and satisfy themselves that they are eligible for the conerned posts, before applying. Copies of supporting documents will be sought only from those candidates who qualify for the Skill Test/ Typing Test. When scrutiny is undertaken, if any claim made in the application is not found substantiated, the candidature will be cancelled and the Commission’s decision shall be final.
3.	CANDIDATES IN THEIR OWN INTEREST ARE ADVISED TO GO THROUGH THE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS CONTAINED IN THIS NOTICE AND ALSO AVAILABLE ON THE WEBSITE OF THE COMMISSION: http://ssc.nic.in , CAREFULLY BEFORE APPLYING.
4.	Candidates seeking reservation benefits available for SC/ST/OBC/PH/EXS must ensure that they are entitled to such reservation as per eligibility prescribed in the Notice .They should also produce the certificates in the prescribed format in support of their claim at the time of Skill Test/Typing Test
5.	Only the candidates with visual disability of 40% or more would be considered as VISUALLY HANDICAPPED (VH) for availing reservation for VH.
6.	Central Government civilian employees/servants claiming age relaxation should be in possession of a certificate in the prescribed format from their office in respect of the length of continuous service which should be for not less than three years in the immediate period preceding the closing date for receipt of application. They should continue to have the status of Central Government civilian servants/employees till the time of appointment, in the event of their selection.
7.	FEE: RUPEES ONE HUNDRED ONLY(s 100.00) Fee is exempted for all Women candidates and candidates belonging to Scheduled Caste, Scheduled Tribe, Physically Handicapped and Ex-Servicemen eligible for reservation.
8.	CLOSING DATE: 16.09.2011 (upto 5 P.M.). For candidates residing in Assam, Meghalaya, Arunachal Pradesh, Mizoram, Manipur, Nagaland, Tripura, Sikkim, Jammu and Kashmir, Lahaul and Spiti District and Pangi Sub Division of Chamba District of Himachal Pradesh, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Lakshadweep and for candidates residing abroad – 23.09.2011. APPLICATIONS RECEIVED LATE WILL NOT BE ENTERTAINED.
9.	Only a single application will be entertained. Candidature in respect of multiple applications will be summarily rejected.
10.	MOBILES AND OTHER ELECTRONIC GADGETS ARE BANNED WITHIN THE PREMISES OF THE EXAMINATION CENTRES.
11.	CANDIDATES MAY SEND/SUBMIT APPLICATION IN THE PRESCRIBED FORMAT TO THE CONCERNED REGIONAL OFFICE OF SSC AS MENTIONED IN PARA-7 OF THE NOTICE OR APPLY ON LINE. FACILITY OF ON-LINE APPLICATION WILL BE AVAILABLE FROM 20.08.2011 TO 14.09.2011. CANDIDATES APPLYING ON-LINE SHOULD RETAIN THE REGISTRATION NUMBER ASSIGNED TO THEM ON LINE FOR FURTHER CORRESPONDENCE WITH THE COMMISSION. THEY ARE NOT REQUIRED TO SUBMIT PRINT OUTS OF THEIR APPLICATION TO THE COMMISSION.

Save Sharmila solidarity campaign to kickoff across India

Newmai News Network

Imphal | September 3 : A joint initiative of various organizations and movements, Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign, is launching a two-month nationwide signature campaign from October 2, 2011 to create awareness and generate public support for Sharmila and her fight against AFSPA.

Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign have been working on the issue of Irom Sharmila Chanu since a long time. Now we have decided to start a nationwide signature campaign from 3pm of October 2 till December 10, 2011 in all state capitals and major cities of India, informed a statement issued by the joint initiative.

The campaign aims at spreading awareness in public about Irom Sharmila Chanu, a Manipuri poet and activist who is on a hunger strike since 2000, and to generate public support for the cause she is fighting in repealing AFSPA, added the statement.

Through the initiative, the signature campaign will demand the initiation of positive talks with Irom Sharmila and to listen to her demand seriously and to send a special team of doctors to examine her health. It will also demand sending of all party delegates and members of national women commission and national human rights commission to visit and take interest in the demand she has raised by fasting for over one decade now.

“We believe that non violent protest of Irom Sharmila Chanu should not be ignored. Non violence is the key to a peaceful and humanitarian society. Its time for all of us to come forward, regardless of our ideological differences, to strengthen her for democratic and peaceful society,” said the statement from the initiative.

The campaign will culminate with the handing over of the signatures to the president of India on International Human Rights Day on December 10, 2011 followed by a fast and peace march from India gate to Rastrapati Bhawan in New Delhi.

The signature campaign will travel to major Indian cities like Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Bihar, Chhatisgarh, Gujarat, Haryana, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu Kashmir, Jharkhand, Karnataka, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Orissa, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, West Bengal, Delhi and Puducheery.

The indomitable Irom Sharmila Chanu began her fast-unto-death stir following the “Malom massacre” in which personnel of Assam Rifles gunned down 10 civilians at Malom near Tulihar Airport in Imphal on November 2, 2000. She clocked ten years of continuous fasting, demanding the repeal of the draconian AFSPA, late last year and has been kept in a high security ward in Jawaharlal Nehru Institute of Medical Sciences (JNIMS) in Imphal where she has been nasal fed since. AFSPA gives unrestraint power to army men to shoot and kill at will.

Source: zolengthe.net

Trending: The North East

By Hoihnu Hauzel

Think football and what comes to mind is Baichung Bhutia. Instantly and naturally. And what comes to mind when you hear Mary Kom’s name? Boxing, of course. Now, think of where both these sports stars come from. Not many would know that Bhutia and Kom come from two different states in the North East of India.

The North East comprises eight states: Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Manipur, Nagaland, Tripura and Sikkim. And often people from this region are mistaken for Chinese! But for those who know them, people from that part of India are a lively bunch who love the good life like everyone else. And if you are GK Pillai, the former Union home secretary, you might like to add that they are “a talented lot.” (Make that “very very talented!”)

North EasternersPillai should know. He has had a long stint as a government official in charge of the region. “There is immense potential in the people and the land. I have been impressed by their talent and creativity. Today, their talents are partly recognised, but they need to be fully recognised,” says Pillai.

To writer and filmmaker Jahnu Barua this recognition of North East talent is just “the beginning of a long journey.” Nonetheless, he says: “The driving force of these people is immense since they know that they have come from so far away to make something out of themselves. So you cannot ignore them anymore.”

Indeed, you can’t. Whether it’s sports, music or fashion, we’re seeing a lot of North Easterners out there. Their food too is preparing to compete with other cuisine in the market. And their unexplored and virgin land is drawing tourists like never before.

So is it time to look East? We think so.

Fashionably yours
FashionThe innately stylish don’t need a big brand to make that statement. Even a simple export surplus off-shoulder top teamed with a label-less made-in-China skirt can give them a diva look. “Brands do not spell style. I am not brand conscious but quality conscious. And we have the ability to understand what looks good on us,” says well-known model from the North East, Esther Jamir. So is being well-dressed part of the North East culture?

Kos Zhasa, former board of governors member of the National Institute of fashion Technology (NIFT), says: “Ours is a very effortless, natural style. I would attribute it to our culture and partly to Western influence because of our faith, Christianity.” Churchgoers in Nagaland often look as though they’re in a fashion show, she says, when they’re dressed in their Sunday best.

Youngsters Winnie Sangtam and Imsu agree that style is a personal thing. “I mix and match and follow my instinct,” says Imsu, a fashion blogger. And Sangtam the student doesn’t dress in the college uniform of salwar kameez or jeans. She stands out in her dress or spaghetti top with jeans.
Naturally, when innate style goes commercial, looks and cuts are bound to be different. Look at designer Atsu Sekhose whose Western sensibility has an impressive client list across India and a niche market overseas. Since he started his own line in 2006, he has never looked back.

Kos Zhasa, a fashion and textile designer from NIFT, started her career as designer for embassy clients. She sold her label, Personal Touch, at up-market stores around the country. Zhasa is now back in Nagaland researching textiles of the North East for book she plans to compile. And as a student at NIFT, Devson Yengkhom, a designer from Manipur, made news when he invented a machine that would produce garments without seams.

Fashion 2Designer Raghavendra Rathore was one of the first designers to experiment with fabrics from the North East. “It was one of the most successful collections that we had ever done and that was purely because of the range of fabrics,” he says. “They had a tremendous recall value and we did exceedingly well where this collection retailed.”

Musically tuned
Give them a guitar and you’ll get a song. While this may be slightly exaggerated, you’ll always find music in North Easterners. Three consecutive winners of the Indian Idol contest were all from the region. Prashant Tamang, Amit Paul (runner up) and Sourabhee Debbarma proved that music is part of their life. And last year, Divine Connection, a gospel band from Nagaland, won the Kurkure Desi Bests Rock show on MTV.

Quietly unnoticed, Abiogenesis, a fusion Naga rock band comprising a husband and wife duo, has been making international waves. In 2008, the band released their album, Rustic Relish, worldwide and made it to the 51st Grammy Awards. Easily the most popular choral group in India is the Shillong Chamber Choir led by Neil Nongkynrih. The choir members sing in foreign languages and Hindi, have won television reality show India’s Got Talent; they also sang for US President Barack Obama on his maiden visit to India.
SourabheeShillong-based music legend Lou Majaw continues to draw crowds from the farthest corners of the world when he celebrates Bob Dylan’s birthday year after year. “I have been singing with the deepest devotion since the 50s,” he says. And every state in the North East boasts multiple musical bands.

But in Nagaland, there is a slightly different approach to music. The state government has set up a Music Task Force that organises India’s biggest rock festival, the Hornbill National Rock Contest, every December. “We see music as an industry and we are focusing on every aspect, including sound, visual media and recording,” says Gugs Sema, director of the Music Task Force.

In Patkai Christian College, a premier college in Dimapur, music is part of the curriculum. And every year, 20 to 30 music graduates pursue higher degrees in music in the state. With over 66 home-grown bands in 11 districts in 2008, the number has only increased over the years. In Shillong, Majaw estimates that Meghalaya has about 15 to 20 local bands who sing in English. Mizoram is not far behind with its own rock band, Magdalene, releasing well-made music videos for local audiences. And Albatross, Frisky Pints and others have performed in metro cities as well.
No wonder then, international stars would rather play in the North East than in India’s big cities. On his maiden trip to India in 2007, Eric Martin, the voice of Mr Big, headed straight to Shillong where other bands like Firehouse and White Lion have played. Pradyot Manikya Deb Burman, the current king of the royal house of Tripura and the man who brings international acts to Shillong, says: “It’s purely for the love of music. There is also a need to show that our region is capable of hosting world class shows. Also, the perception that the region is unsafe had to be removed, and what better way to do it than with packed stadiums?”

Strictly business
If there is a will, there is a way. And when Raja Sithlou and his wife Ahoi returned from a holiday in Thailand in 2006, they were decided. They would start ‘the McDonald’s of spas’. In 2008, the dream came true. The couple now run Oriental Senses at Select Citywalk mall in Delhi, a spa that offers luxurious services at affordable prices. “We saw a great business opportunity in introducing commendable services at affordable rates,” says Raja.

Ahoi trained in Asian massage therapies in Thailand and Indonesia, and now personally trains her staff who are mostly from the interiors of Manipur. “We wanted to do something which will directly help build skills and create employment opportunities for our people,” says Raja. And it helps that most of his staff are from the North East. “A lot of customers do come in thinking that the spa is run by Thais. It does make a difference if the therapist ‘looks’ like a Thai!”

As the head designer for an export house, Dodou Tunglut always wanted to start something of his own. In 2006 he chucked up his job and set up a studio manufacturing home furnishings. Today he caters to high-end boutiques in America and Europe. “People who are familiar with my work keep ordering more,” says Tunglut. As of now, he is researching the textiles of the North East. Mary Claire dived into designing out of sheer passion.

The Mizo, married to an Italian restaurateur, the owner of Delhi’s Flavors, is already making many trips to Europe to meet clients. But for someone who made her own dresses at the age of 12, this is only expected. Claire fuses North East handlooms with frills and adds stones and beads on table runners, mats, and head boards. “They are all sold out in Europe,” she says.

Lost and found
RhinoA few years ago, heading to the North East for a holiday would have been unthinkable. Forget the insurgency problems. There weren’t enough hotels! It was also difficult to get there. Now, there are more direct flights to the region than ever before. And accommodation? You are spoilt for choice. So tourist traffic to the North East has really taken off. Assam, for instance, had 36.7 lakh domestic arrivals in Assam in 2008. In 2010, it was 40.51 lakh.
“The region is clearly poised for a growth in economic activity, linked both to the huge tourism potential and the availability of resources, natural and human. Hence, we anticipate that the region will see a greater presence of branded hotels, going forward,” says Prabhat Pani, CEO & director, Roots Corporation Limited.

Locals are also doing their bit. Take for instance Pradyot Manikya Deb Burman, the current king of the royal house of Tripura, who opened a heritage resort by converting his family’s summer home into a hotel, Tripura Castle, in Shillong. He is now adding a few more rooms, another restaurant and a spa.

“The market is growing. There is a definite demand for high-end hotels in places like Kaziranga,” says Subrto Sharma who invested in a luxury resort in a tea garden in Kaziranga. Says Rakesh Mathur, president of Welcomheritage which has a slew of properties in Jorhat, Sikkim, Arunachal and elsewhere, “It was only a question of time for us to promote the North East as a destination. The doors have opened and the time is ripe.”

Mayfair Hotels & Resorts has opened the region’s first luxury resort in Gangtok, complete with spa, helipad and casino. And ITDC, which owns two hotels in the region, is open to proposals for new hotels.

New star on the Culinary map
North east kitchenWhen 12-Michelin star chef Gordon Ramsay came to India to shoot a Great Escape episode, he headed to Nagaland and Assam. Two recipes, fish tenga, a sour fish curry from Assam, and Majuli fish cakes with tomato, another local dish, made it to his 100 favourite recipes from India. And when Italian slow food icon Carlos Pertini came to India, it was in Meghalaya that he bonded with locals over sumptuous pork curry and herbs and spices that he was surprised to see. “I have never had such delicious food,” said Pertini.

There is something about the flavour from this region. Considered exotic anyway by gourmet gurus, the simple but healthy and flavourful food that uses natural spices and little oil is slowly finding takers. Celebrated chef Bill Marchetti for one, thinks the cuisine has huge potential.

So it’s no surprise to see Nagaland’s Kitchen, a 48-cover fine dining eatery right in the middle of Green Park Extension market in Delhi, vying for attention and customers with more established neighbourhood restaurants. Chubamanen Longkumar, all of 29, and his two sisters, owners of the restaurant, are more than confident that this venture will work. Why not? The siblings from Nagaland have already felt the pulse of locals with more than a decade of successfully running the buzzing Nagaland Kitchen at Delhi’s arts and crafts junction, Dilli Haat. They know that soon, their sumptuous smoked pork curry, Naga thali and other authentic dishes will find more converts. Since they first opened last October, their restaurant has attracted 60-70 diners a day.

So it’s not surprising that even five-star kitchens are intrigued by North Eastern cuisine. Take the Park in Delhi. It has incorporated a dish from Manipur in its coffee shop menu after a North East food promotion was held in the hotel. At the Oberoi in Gurgaon, executive chef Ravitej promises that their multicuisine restaurant threesixtyone will soon feature a smattering of North Eastern dishes too.

Ravitej was prompted to do this when one of his chefs, Siamsang from Manipur, asked him to sample a Manipuri dish. “It was tasty and different and I felt I could take it up to a commercial level,” he says. It will need initiation, though, he adds. Just like the Japanese and non-Schezwan Chinese food that were introduced in small doses. “We will use the same approach to promote North Eastern food,” he says.

And chef Praveen Anand of Chennai’s ITC Sheraton will soon hold a long-planned Brahmin Manipuri food festival in his restaurant. “It will be during navratra as I intend to serve only vegetarian dishes that are best prepared by the Manipuri Brahmins,” he says. “There are a number of connoisseurs in Chennai who would love to eat something new. In my research I realised that there is so much to unearth from the North East.”

Chef Sabyasachi Gorai of the Japanese restaurant, Ai in Delhi, knows this. He has been quietly sourcing his ingredients from there for half the price he would have paid in Japan. Organic blackberries, passionfruit, black mushrooms, flat bamboo leaves, black rice and more come from Shillong. Gorai vouches for the quality and freshness. “The North East is home to many interesting ingredients,” says Gorai.

Good sports
BhaichungCircumstances have made them fighters and winners in their chosen fields. Whether it is Mary Kom, three-time world champion, or gold medallist boxer Dhinko Singh or weightlifter Kunjarani Devi or soccer king Baichung Bhutia, they all say hard work was their mantra. “Whether it’s training, cooking or housework, Kom does everything with precision and perfection,” says Kom’s husband Onler.

Soccer star Baichung Bhutia, the first Indian to play for a European team, believes the highest number of footballers in India come from the North East. “Football is bigger than cricket here,” he says. “Also, kids are much more energetic here and the weather is generally good for outdoor games.” To catch that talent, Bhutia’s newly-formed club, United Sikkim, will be perfect. “This is going to be the biggest and most professionally-run club in the country,” he says. “I see a lot of young talent all over India and this can be a platform for them.”

Literally speaking
And now, it seems the “most interesting voice in India” is from the North East. And VK Karthika, chief editor of HarperCollins India, is serious when she says that. Karthika is referring to Kynpham Sing Nongkynrih whose poetry has just been published by HarperCollins India. “He has a sophistication of thought and ideas which is combined with a very dramatic story-telling voice,” says Karthika. “We have not explored voices from the North East before.”

For a long time, writing from the North East remained confined to the region. Sometimes, it was because good writers did not necessarily write in English. Kynpham, 46, for instance, says that he has been writing in Khasi and English for more than two decades. But as translations take off, you’ll read more from the region. Zubaan, for instance, has translations from Assamese in their list.

For more than a decade, a group of writers under the North East Writers’ Forum has been meeting and encouraging its members to write. “And they are committed writers who write for the love of it and not necessarily to be published or with any political agenda,” says Karthika. “We have been getting good manuscripts.”

Preeti Gill, editor of Zubaan, says writing from the North East has a certain freshness and strength that compels the reader. “And to me, it presents a reality that many of us were unaware of till recently,” she says. “I see a certain truth, honesty, a brutal ‘reportage’, retelling of popular myths, of local histories, of community stories. It’s a very exciting area with rich literary traditions and there is much to be discovered.”

Zubaan has in fact held writers’ forums where writers from the North East have interacted with fellow writers from other states. Gill has personally built up Zubaan’s list of titles by travelling in the region and getting in touch with new writers through friends and associates.

Source: Hindustan Times

Chin-Kuki-Zo people are not migrants

By: Dr. L Lam Khan Piang

The Zo people are identified with various names such as Kuki, Chin, Shendu, Khongsai, etc. by the anthropologists, ethnographers and colonial administrators.

However, some of them mention that Zo is the name by which they call themselves. So it is imperative to employ the name Zo, as it has cultural implication and a tinge of primordial element, and to clear the confusion due to the various different names given by their neighbors from whom the colonial ethnographers and administrators picked up.

Asian School of Business Announces Scholarships For Rural Northeast Students

Thiruvanthapuram, Aug 11 : The Asian School of Business (ASB), a leading B-school in India, is proactively encouraging admission of North East students with rural background for its flagship post-graduate programme. Accordingly, in collaboration with the charitable George M Thomas Foundation, ASB will be offering scholarships of up to 50 per cent on the full-term fee for one student from each of the Seven Sisters.

Sadar Hills Strike life; Spikes Prices

Imphal, Aug 9 : Chief minister Okram Ibobi Singh is torn between the Kuki demand for Sadar Hills district and the Naga warning against creation of the district without their consent, as the state reels under the impact of an indefinite strike called by the Sadar Hills District Demand Committee.

While the demand committee has set August 15 as the deadline for announcing the district, the United Naga council (UNC) has cautioned the government against creating it without consent of the Nagas.

Demand for district in Manipur turns violent

Imphal, Aug 8 : Life in Manipur’s Senapati district has remained crippled for the past few days with supporters of an agitation for creation of a separate Sadar Hills district turning violent. Those taking part in the agitation have set afire government offices and vehicles on the national highway.