The Indo-Japan Friendship Association, Manipur (IJFAM) today observed the 80th Hiroshima Day at Loktak Hall, Manipur Press Club, Majorkhul, Imphal, with a solemn function aimed at promoting peace and commemorating the victims of the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki in 1945.

The event was graced by Kh. Ibomcha, MLA of Lamlai Assembly Constituency, as the Chief Guest. Retired IPS officer Sarangthem Manaobi (Khoiranthaba) attended as the Guest of Honour, while IJFAM Vice-President Ningthoujam Kumar Meetei presided over the programme. Rajeshwar Yumnam was present as the Special Guest.

The observance began with the arrival of dignitaries, a brief cultural presentation, and a two-minute silence held in memory of the atomic bombing victims and the martyrs who sacrificed their lives for the integrity of Manipur.

Addressing the gathering, MLA Kh. Ibomcha underscored the devastating impact of nuclear warfare and emphasised the urgent need for global disarmament and peaceful coexistence. He lauded IJFAM’s ongoing efforts in strengthening cultural and people-to-people ties between Manipur and Japan.

Other speakers included Khoisnam Tokyo Meetei, a member of IJFAM and International Book of Records holder; Irungbam Mangan Singh, Secretary of IJFAM and Principal of the Centre for Japanese Language Studies; and Dr. Ksh. Subadani Devi, Sahitya Akademi Bal Sahitya Puraskar awardee. They collectively stressed the importance of educating younger generations about the horrors of war and the value of peace.

Special Guest Rajeshwar Yumnam also addressed the gathering, advocating for deeper cross-cultural understanding and sustained peace-building efforts.