Imphal, March 12, 2010: The memorial stone of Ngulkhup Haokip, a revered Kuki figure associated with the 1917-1918 Kuki War of Independence has been unveiled at Lonpi (Mombi) village of Chandel district today.

Enshrined in the Kuki history among the 'Heroes of Kukis, Ngulkhup is said to had been the Kuki militia's commander in-chief during the 1917-1918 conflict with the then powerful British empire.

It is said that in recognition for his acts of valour against the awa (now Myanmar) invaders ngulkhup, then chief of Lonpi village, was awarded by Maharaja Chandrakriti with the presentation of gifts.

Ngulkhup, was the son of Ngulsong Haokip, also chief of Lonpi village.

In honour of the exemplary bravery displayed by Ngulkhup during the Kuki War of Independence the memorial stone was erected at his birth-place.

Gracing the memorial stone inauguration as the chief guest, Chairman of State Planning Board Bijoy Koijam hailed Ngulkhup Haokip as an outstanding individual whose contribution to safeguard Manipur's integrity would ever remained etched in the minds of the people.

His acts of valour had set the trend for the Kukis' continuous contribution in the protection of interest of Manipuris, he opined while pointing out that soldiers of the all-conquering British force for the first time fought guerilla warfare battles in Manipur against the Kuki legions.

The MLA further confided that State Government is very keen to expand the memorial site with the establishment of a park and cultural complex or a guest house in the name of Ngulkhup Haokip.

He also informed the gathering that plans are afoot to black top Chakpikarong-Joupi route besides inauguration of Tora bridge in Chakpikarong sub-division within May this year.

Bijoy Koijam also highlighted that the State Government had already released Rs 50 crore for development activities in Chandel district.

The memorial stone unveiling programme held with Chandel AC MLA Thangkholun Haokip as the hosts, was presided by former Minister Ngamthang Haokip.

Among others Commanding Officer of 6 Assam Rifles along with his sub-ordinate staff, district level officials, village chiefs and social activists also attended the programme.

The Chief Minister was actually supposed to grace the occasion as the chief guest but due to another important engagement, MLA Bijoy Koijam attended in his place.

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