The Federation of Civil Society Organisations (FOCS), Manipur, celebrated Ningol Chakkouba (IDPs & Ching-Tam) on Thursday at IMA Khunthok Hanbi Shanglen, Thangmeiband, inside the DM University Campus, Imphal. The event highlighted cultural unity and compassion for internally displaced persons (IDPs), symbolising togetherness and solidarity across communities.
Organised by FOCS, the celebration brought together prominent women representatives and members of various civil society groups. The presidium featured BM Yaima Shah, Acting President of FOCS; M Sorojini Leima, President of the Universal Mother’s Organisation; L Mema, Secretary of Manipur Keithel Nupi Marup; Dr Khullakpam Sapana, Lecturer at Presidency College; and W Nabakumar, Retired Professor of Manipur University, among others.
The programme commenced at 9:30 a.m. with the arrival of dignitaries, followed by formal chairing and felicitation. It included a welcome address, keynote speeches on the cultural and emotional significance of Ningol Chakkouba in uniting displaced families, and speeches by invited guests. The event concluded with a vote of thanks, community lunch, and the traditional Khudol Tamba (presentation of gifts).
This year’s Ningol Chakkouba celebration carried a special message of inclusion and harmony, as FOCS dedicated the event to IDPs and the spirit of Ching-Tam (hill-valley unity). The gathering reaffirmed communal harmony and underscored the vital role of women’s groups and civil society leaders in fostering peace, compassion, and collective resilience in Manipur.