Imphal, January 01: The second phase of the UNIDEP (Unity, Development and Peace) Campaign kicked off today at Tangjeng Khunjao Tera Lampak in Thoubal district.

Under the year long campaign inaugurated on November 18 last year at THAU ground, several public discussion programmes were held at different places of Bishnupur district.

With today's programme at Tangjeng Khunjao, the campaign was also launched in Thoubal district with many more such programmes scheduled in the coming days.

Speaking on the occasion R Yangsosong said that the UNIDEP campaign was launched particularly in view of the ever diminishing bond of unity, the meaningless modernisation and the extensive unrest in Manipur.

Saying that UNIDEP Campaign is not exclusively for the Meiteis, he reiterated that the Campaign is aimed at fostering unity, development and peace among all the 36 ethnic groups of the State.

Stressing on the moral responsibility of the majority community (Meiteis) to shoulder the greater share of such a campaign, the AMUCO president acknowledged the various initiatives undertaken by the Meiteis to bring unity and progress all over the State.

Noting that it is unthinkable to separate the hills and valley of Manipur which are bound by a filial cord since ages, he cautioned that any attempt to bifurcate the State would be suicidal for both the hills and valley.

With regard to civil unrest visible everywhere in the State, Yansosong observed that peace would remain a far fetched dream regardless of whether the Union Govt pumped in crores of rupees every month to the State as long as there is no social, political and economic justice.

Addressing the gathering, AMESCO vice-president LS Guite emphasised on the heavy responsibility of the Meiteis to make unity, development and peace a reality in the State.

He noted that inter-community marriages and exchange of ideas, culture and tradition among the indigenous peoples of the State would go a long way in making the UNIDEP Campaign a success.

The gathering was also addressed by NRC president Sunilkanta, AMESCO secretary organisation L Nando, ex-president NRC S Bhubon and AMUCO secretary NC Khuman.

Today's programmes organised by the UNIDEP Organising Committee constituted by AMUCO, AMESCO, MEPWAK, Poirei Leimarol Meira Paibi Apunba Manipur and other social organisations was graced by AMUCO president R Yangsosong Koireng, advisor of All Thoubal District United Clubs Organisation Khaidem Bijoy, president of Poirei Leimarol Meira Paibi Apunba Manipur Memchoubi, president of the Khunai Kanba Apunba Meira Paibi W Maipakpi and Pradhan of Pangaltabi Gram Panchayat A Dhiren as presidium members.

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