An official ceremony was held today to inaugurate a Japanese Memorial at Nungshigum Ridge in Keibi Khullen, a historic site linked to the intense fighting during the Battle of Imphal.
The memorial project was initiated by the 2nd World War Imphal Campaign Foundation in collaboration with Japanese expatriate volunteers in India and the Keibi Khullen Village Development Committee.
Nungshigum Ridge was one of the strategically significant battlegrounds of 1944, witnessing fierce combat between Japanese and Allied forces during the Second World War. The newly established memorial honours the soldiers who lost their lives in the conflict and acknowledges the suffering endured by countless individuals during that period.
Organisers stated that the memorial is not only a tribute to those who perished but also a symbol of reconciliation and shared humanity. It reflects a collective resolve to promote peace, mutual respect and stronger ties between nations, while preserving the historical legacy of the site for future generations.
The ceremony was attended by Tadashi Asazuma, Vice President of Toyota Kirloskar Motor, Arambam Angamba Singh, President of the 2nd World War Imphal Campaign Foundation, representatives from Japan, community leaders of Keibi Khullen and members of the public.
The programme featured floral tributes, commemorative speeches and a moment of silence in honour of those who fell during the battle.