The 69th birth anniversary of Irengbam Chaoren was commemorated at the Auditorium Hall of Manipur University, Canchipur, with a programme organised by the Irengbam Chaoren Memorial Trust (ICMT) to honour his memory and legacy.
Prof. Naorem Joykumar Singh, Vice-Chancellor of Khongnangthaba University, attended the programme as the Chief Guest, while noted social scientist Dr. Dhanabir Laishram delivered the memorial lecture as the main speaker.
Speaking at the programme, Prof. Joykumar highlighted the historical and political evolution of Manipur, tracing its journey from the Loiyumba Shinyen of the early 12th century to the Manipur State Constitution Act, 1947. Stressing the need for unity among the people of Manipur, he appealed to the indigenous communities to remain united in safeguarding the state’s identity and future.
The programme was attended by several distinguished guests, including Dr. Y. Premananda Singh, Head of the Department of Law, Manipur University; Sani Alexander Mao, Advisor of the Mao Council, Manipur; Trimson Saka, Convenor of the Working Committee of the Chandel Naga People’s Organisation (CNPO); Dr. L. Phaomei, Convenor of the United Zeliangrongpui Co-ordination Committee (UZCC); Dr. Syed Ahmed, Associate Professor and Head of the Department of History, DM College of Arts, Imphal; and Sober Chingangbam, Vice-President of the Manipur University Students’ Union (MUSU) for 2026–2027.
The commemorative function was presided over by Irengbam Bilashini, President of the ICMT.
The programme began with ceremonial lamp lighting, followed by a minute’s silence and floral tributes in memory of Irengbam Chaoren. It also featured a welcome address, keynote address and the memorial lecture by Dr. Dhanabir Laishram.
Prizes were also distributed to the winners of the Irengbam Chaoren Essay Writing Competition, an initiative of the Trust to promote intellectual engagement and academic pursuits among students while keeping his legacy alive.