Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh today attended the State-Level Teachers’ Day Celebration, 2026, and make a strong appeal for peace and dialogue, saying that Manipur’s prolonged crisis can be addressed only through negotiations and warning that bandhs, agitations and blockades ultimately deepen public hardship.
The State-level celebration, organised by the Department of Education at the City Convention Centre, Palace Compound, Imphal, brought together teachers, education officials and government representatives.
Speaking at the function, the Chief Minister said Teachers’ Day was a reminder that teaching is not merely a profession but a noble responsibility and a national duty. He said a teacher’s greatest responsibility lies in treating every student with the same care, concern and commitment as a member of one’s own family.
Touching on the prevailing situation in Manipur, Khemchand said the State had gone through multiple crises but there were signs that peace was gradually returning. He particularly appreciated students of T.G. Higher Secondary School and C.C. Higher Secondary School for maintaining restraint during the recent controversy surrounding the census.
Recalling his recent interaction with student leaders, he said the students had demonstrated responsibility by refraining from agitation and choosing not to participate in the bandh called over the issue.
The Chief Minister said such disruptions ultimately affect ordinary people and cause setbacks to the economy and education. He maintained that lasting peace could not be achieved through confrontation, asserting that issues must be resolved through dialogue and negotiation.
Khemchand also paid floral tribute to Dr Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan and recalled his contributions as an educationist, philosopher and former President of India.
Chief Secretary Rajeev Singh Thakur stressed that education remains fundamental to shaping individuals, families and society, saying quality education opens the way for a better future across generations.
During the celebration, seven teachers received the State Teachers’ Awards, 2026, each carrying a cash prize of ¹ 50,000. Six awardees received the honours in person, while M Mangkhoneng Haokip of Tengnoupal district received the award through the ADC via video conferencing.
The Chief Minister’s Educational Award for Educational Excellence was also presented to eight colleges. Nambol L. Sanoi College, Standard College and Liberal College received Rs. 5 lakh, Rs.3 lakh and Rs.2 lakh respectively, while five colleges received consolation prizes of Rs.1 lakh each.
