The Manipur State Commission for the Scheduled Tribes (MSCST) today celebrated its 2nd Foundation Day at Sangai Hall, Hotel Imphal by The Classic, under the theme “Promoting Unity in Diversity.”
Gracing the event as Chief Guest, Chief Secretary Prashant Kumar Singh proposed that next year’s Foundation Day be held in one of the hill districts to enable wider participation from tribal communities. He expressed optimism that with the improving situation in the state, future celebrations would see representation from all tribal communities of Manipur.
Speaking on the occasion, Singh emphasised India’s unique diversity and praised Manipur’s vivid cultural mosaic, where each district showcases distinct languages, traditions, and art forms.
Additional Chief Secretary, Tribal Affairs and Hills, Anurag Bajpai, described the Foundation Day as a reaffirmation of Manipur’s commitment to tribal welfare and inclusive growth. He termed the establishment of MSCST in 2014 a significant milestone in empowering tribal communities and stressed the need for continued cooperation between the Commission, government bodies, and civil society to address pressing issues like education, livelihoods, and cultural preservation.
Delivering the keynote address, MSCST Chairperson T. Mathieu Rongmei highlighted the Commission’s efforts despite financial constraints. He cited key initiatives such as district-level tours, legal awareness drives, and health and skill development programmes, all funded through limited grant-in-aid support.
The Chief Secretary also released the Commission’s Annual Report, detailing MSCST’s achievements and ongoing activities over the past year. An accompanying art exhibition reflecting the cultural richness of tribal communities in Manipur was also inaugurated.
Cultural highlights of the event included performances by Silentliu Kamei and Jeena Pamei, as well as a vibrant display of traditional tribal attire.
The celebration was attended by several dignitaries including Shri Vivek Dewangan, Additional Chief Secretary (Finance), and Thumlip Tiningpham Monsang, Chairperson of the Manipur State Commission for Women (MSCW).
