Lamka, May 28: The Thadou Kuki Students' Union, Manipur (TKSUM) today organised its 47th General Assembly cum Award distribution function at Tuibuong community Hall here.

More than 80 awards of different categories were given out during the function which started at 10: 30 am.

They include 36 class X first divisioners, 40 Class XII first divisioners and five graduate/ post graduate awards apart from awards for outstanding service in various trades.

Most of the awardees were absent though, and prizes were given out in absentia.

Speaking as chief guest at the occasion, Chief Minister O Ibobi Singh stressed on the great role of the youth in moulding the society and said that channelising their potential for constructive purpose is of utmost importance in today�s world.

"We have no choice but to live together in harmony if we want to survive and it is regrettable that while other States have left insurgency behind for development, Manipur is still a thriving ground for gun culture," he said.

The Chief Minister also donated Rs 50, 000 to the TKSU.

While TN Haokip, Speaker- Manipur Assembly was the functional president on the occasion, Ministers Phungzathang Tonsing, Dr Chaltonlien Amo and T Manga Vaiphei also attended the function as guests of honour.

In their speeches, the Ministers urged the upcoming youths to shun violence and gun culture and strive instead for academic excellence.

They also highlighted the various projects planned for the beautification and development of the Lamka town.

Power Minister Phungzathang Tonsing promised that another 5 MVA transformer would be installed will be installed at Khengzang sub-station within this year.

Phungzathang and TN Haokip donated Rs 10, 000 each to the TKSU and Dr.Chaltonlien Amo also presented Rs 5000 to the students body.

The TKSU also submitted a memorandum to the CM.

In the memorandum, it urged for the early installation of another 5 MVA transformer at Khengjang in view of the acute power shortage in Lamka and for setting up of a primary health centre (PHC) at Tuibuong.

They also asked for the implementation of Lanva Catchment Area Development Project.

Requests were also made to expedite payment of ex- gratia and compensation to the remaining victims of the Zomi�Kuki clashes.

The visiting team left around 2: 30 pm after lunch at the DC Office complex.

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