IMPHAL | March 8, 2025: The Tangkhul Shanao Long Imphal (Tangkhul Women league Imphal) joined the rest of the World in observing the International Women’s Day cum Tangkhul Shanao Long Day today at MBC Recreation Centre, Imphal.
At the backdrop of this year’s international theme “Accelerate Action”, TSLI celebrated the event under the theme “Respect Cultural Rights of Women” to emphasize the urgent need of respecting cultural rights and ensure that no one is left behind in the movement for equality. According to TSLI, “Respecting cultures of different sections of society is an important part towards creating social harmony and it strengthens our social fabric, where women plays a crucial role in preserving our culture. The society and the State needs to accelerate their role towards eliminating the existing societal system, biases, barriers, custom, laws etc. that are detrimental towards bringing equality of women.”
In his keynote address, Dr. Ringkahao Horam, Principal Pettigrew College Ukhrul, emphasized on the significant position of women in the Tangkhul society. He also called on the people to accelerate the progress of women by lifting them up at par with men. Grace Shatsang, first TSLI President shared the history of the TSLI and stated that the core values of the league is to help bring peace and unity where there is conflict.
Other eminent speakers included Rev. F. Robert Somi, Parish Priest, Dr. IK Muivah, IPS, ADGP, Govt of Manipur, Luckyson Ngamsha Kashung, IAS, Joint Secretary (Textile Commerce & Industries) shared their different perspective on the Role of Tangkhul Shanao Long (Tangkhul Women League) and women in conflict situation.
Later, TSLI facilitated Ql. Zuringla Kengoo Chalhang on winning “the Indian Express Excellence in Governance Award (e-Governance category)”. Guru Reuben, Padmashree Awardee presented folk song through his talented musical instruments.
This year the event saw, for the first time, competition events including Declamation contest on Tangkhul Shanao, and Painting competition on Haoshim with an aim to encourage emerging young painters towards preserving our cultures.
In the Painting competition, Ningshiyin Ngashangva was adjudged the winner, while Yurkhan LS and Ungsem Chithung were second and third respectively. 8 others were given consolation prizes for their outstanding pieces. Well known Tangkhul artist Sorei Keishing mentored and judged the competition that saw 42 participants.
Meanwhile for Declamation contest, the first position went to Semmichon Precious Ngalung followed by Sobina Zimik and Worlei Sarou in second and third position.
The event showcased Tangkhul indigenous cuisines, traditional attires, folk song, folk music and local food stalls by young women entrepreneurs.
