Land of Jewels (Sana Leibak)

Dr Sidhu greets people: Imphal, Dec 31: On the occasion of New Year's Day 2008, Governor Dr SS Sidhu has conveyed best wishes to the people of Manipur. In his message, the Governor said that New Year's Day is not only an occasion for introspection but also for searching and evolving new resolutions for the coming year. Dr Sidhu also wished every one a new year full of peace, happiness, contentment, progress and prosperity. Greeting the people on the occasion of New Year's Day, Chief Minister O Ibobi called upon all to make a firm resolution to fight and defeat the evil designs of divisive and disruptive forces. The Chief Minister further appealed to the people to join hands in the noble task for restoring peace and prosperity in Manipur. MPCC president Gaikhangam wished that the New Year may bring about peace, harmony and prosperity for all. "Let violence and conflict give way to love and peace in the State with the arrival of 2008," said Lok Sabha MP Dr T Meinya ...

Manipur-posted soldiers gain experience: Guwahati, Dec. 27: Four decades after Thuingaleng Muivah led a team of Naga National Council (NNC) members to China for training in guerrilla warfare, the Chinese army is helping India deal with militancy. Brig D.S. Dadwal, the head of the Indian contingent that participated in the first joint military exercise between the two countries -- Hand-in-Hand 2007 -- said on his return today that the common aim of the neighbours was to eliminate the “scourge of terrorism”, The contingent, drawn from the Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry unit posted in Bishnupur district of Manipur, believes the experience of a joint exercise with China will help it conduct counter-insurgency operations better. “Such exercises definitely help you to hone your skills and use them at Ground Zero,” Brig. Dadwal said. The five-day drill was conducted at the Kunming Military Academy in Yunnan province of China. Battalion commander Col J.S. Budhwar said a mock hostage rescue d...