The storm has almost blown over; this time also, we have shown to the world the might of the Manipuris. But the real battle lies ahead; we have to restore the lost glory of our motherland Manipur and should divert this recent tide of unity to flush out lawlessness, corruption and the other evils that have besieged our society.

First, We have to weed out the sheeps in wolf’s clothing, saboteurs, provocateurs and Judases who have revealed their true colors in the recent upheavals. We also have to do away with this present breed of silly, power hungry opportunistic and highly corrupted politicians and leaders. With elections being planned in the very near future, we do have a great opportunity to have a final say in this matter.

Second, we have to deal with the lawlessness and reign of fear brought about by mushrooming faceless groups. Who, with their lost ideals and misplaced patriotism, are just rebels without a cause and are out to just make a fast buck for them-selves.

Third, we have to deal with the burning problem of drugs, HIV and AIDS on a war footing instead of just paying lip service or else we will all be consumed in this terrible epidemic which is spreading like wildfire.

Fourth, we should look into how best to utilize our resources in Agriculture, horticulture, sericulture, floriculture, tourism, Manpower, IT, trade with the S-E Asian countries etc. or whatever may be best so that we can at least become a self-sufficient economy first and then follow the Asian tiger’s road to prosperity.

Fifth, we should encourage sports and the arts like never before, for they have done us proud and made us hold our heads high even in the bleak recent past.

Nothing short of a revolution will help to stem the rot that has eaten into the very fabric of our society and economy. We need far-sighted leaders who can selflessly look beyond narrow personal and political gains and usher our motherland into this new millennium. We, the public too have to make many sacrifices to reach this goal, only a collective and concerted effort can lead us to the road of peace and prosperity that have eluded us for so long. There is no need to cry hoarse for outside help, we have to help ourselves

I dream of the day when we can hold our heads high as Manipuris, see the golden sheen return to the domes of the sacred Shree Shree Govindajee Temple, watch a languid game of polo at the Mapal Kangjeibung, Appreciate the nuances of a Ras leela at the Shree Shree Govindajee Mandap or experience the sheer power of the colorful procession of the Lai Haraoba, snaking its way through the streets of Khwairamband Bazaar.

We are now at the crossroads of an important juncture, it may be make or break for the Manipuri race. In the past too, we have stood against all odds and have won, this time is no different. Leaving petty differences aside, let us all join hands to achieve this dream of a golden Manipur.