The 6th Anniversary of the Imphal Peace Museum (IPM) and the observation of Hiroshima-Nagasaki Day were held today at Maibam Lotpa Ching in Bishnupur district. The event was jointly organised by the Imphal Peace Museum, the Nippon Foundation, and The Sasakawa Peace Foundation.
The programme was attended by the Ambassador of Japan to India, Ono Keiichi, Chief Secretary of Manipur, Dr. Puneet Kumar Goel, Puja Elangbam, Deputy Commissioner, Bishnupur and Vice-Chancellor of Dhanamanjuri University, Prof. W. Chandbabu, among other dignitaries.
The day’s programme commenced at the India Peace Memorial, where participants offered floral tributes at the Japanese Army memorial stone, followed by a minute’s silence in honour of the victims of the atomic bombings and those who lost their lives during the Second World War.
Later, Ambassador Ono Keiichi released fish into the pond at the Peace Museum Complex before inaugurating the newly built Harmony House by cutting a ribbon. He also opened a special exhibition showcasing artefacts sent from Japan.
A video message from Nippon Foundation’s Programme Director, Makato Wada, and a video address by The Sasakawa Peace Foundation President, Atsushi Sunami, were also presented. The event witnessed the release of a publication titled Visual Journey of IPM 2025 under the READ Project.
Speaking at the occasion, Ambassador Ono Keiichi expressed deep appreciation for the close ties between the people of Manipur and Japan, noting that historical bonds have paved the way for continued cooperation in promoting peace. He emphasised Japan’s commitment to further strengthening these relations.
Chief Secretary Dr. Puneet Kumar Goel, in his address, described the Imphal Peace Museum as a “living room of history,” preserving significant memories for future generations. He stressed its role not only in safeguarding history but also in fostering a spirit of peace among people.
The programme concluded with a reaffirmation of the shared commitment between India and Japan to uphold peace, mutual understanding, and cultural exchange.