IT News
Imphal, Nov. 2:
The ZRO/ZRA is the first armed Organisation amongst the Zo people in Manipur to sign SoO with Government of India in 2005. Subsequently, tripartite SoO was signed in 2008 under the banner of KNO & UPF. Sadly, the inordinate delays in political solution and irregular payments of Stipend by the Government compelled the ZRA cadres in their designated Camps to explore ways and means for their living.
As reported by Camp Commander, ZRA and Director, ZRO Lt. Col. Nathan, the Cadres at Muvanlai Designated Camp first grows spices(ginger and turmeric), then planted Agri-horticulture plant/crops like mango, banana, jack-fruits, etc whose fruits have been harvested and sold for some time now. Some take up piggery, poultry, fishery and their women folks take up weaving, handloom and handicrafts for their livings
This year, as many as 15 Cadres and their families take up paddy cultivation in the plot identified for them by Teikot Chief. Ironically, the COVID 19 pandemic and subsequent lockdown gave them the opportunity to work in the field with their children. All together, the 15 family harvested around 1000 tins i.e 1000x 8kgs = 8000 kgs(approx). On Nov 1, 2020 they held Thanks Giving for the bounty harvest and hosted feast, inviting Zomi leaders, Chiefs and Public leaders from neighboring Villages. The Chaplain of the Organisation offer Thanks Giving and Offertory Prayer for the harvest.
The delay in yearly payment of SoO Cadre’s monthly stipend by the government severely affected their living conditions as well as maintaining strict discipline in the Camp, says Nathan. He is also apprehensive of the Governments’ sincerity in bring political solution in near future.
