The Irabot Foundation Manipur (IFM) marked its 29th Foundation Day at the Manipur Press Club today with a searing indictment of both the Central Government and security forces over their alleged failure to protect farmers and uphold their right to cultivate. The observance was followed by a public discussion on the theme “Climate Action and Economic Regeneration through Agricultural Activities”, attended by key state officials and agricultural experts.
Director of the Department of Environment and Climate Change, Tourangbam Brajakumar, graced the event as Chief Guest. Kh. Gopen Luwang, President of Irabot Foundation Manipur, presided over the programme, while Kh. Nimaichand, Nodal Officer, MOVCDNER, Department of Agriculture, was the Guest of Honour.
Delivering a strongly worded address, IFM President Kh. Gopen Luwang lashed out at the silence and inaction of the Indian security forces in the face of continued threats to Meitei farmers. Referring to the June 15 incident at Pukhao Leitanpokpi, where Meitei farmers were blocked from ploughing their fields by armed Kuki individuals despite the presence of central forces, Gopen Luwang declared, “Now it is clear who our enemies are. The presence of heavy security deployment has done nothing to safeguard the farming community.”
He said the people of the state are no longer confused about who stands with them and who stands against them. “If the Government of India is sincere, stretch out your hand and befriend the people. If you consider us enemies, jail us all — including the farmers — and rule the land as you wish,” he said in a direct challenge to the Centre.
Citing the devastating consequences of climate change — alternating floods and droughts that have hit Manipur annually in recent years — Gopen Luwang emphasized the urgency of expert-backed agricultural planning. “Farmers must now understand what to grow and when, based on climate patterns and scientific advice,” he said.
He also pointed out that while farmers have been barred from cultivating for nearly three years due to ongoing unrest, compensation remains woefully inadequate. “for 2023, a meagre amount was paid for kharif crops, but who will compensate for rabi crops? No support has been extended for poultry, piggery, or other animal husbandry losses. And for 2024, not a single rupee has been paid so far,” he added.
Making a forceful demand, he said the Government of India must compensate not less than Rs.1 lakh per sangam for the continued loss of livelihood and harvest. He further urged that the government guarantee unhindered cultivation rights for farmers in 2025. “If you can’t ensure that, then let the security forces leave Manipur. We will handle our affairs in our own way,” he concluded.
The event concluded with experts discussing practical strategies for climate-resilient agriculture and income regeneration, as the Foundation vowed to continue its fight for agrarian justice and environmental security in the state.