Unity and Resilience: International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples Ignites Unity at Imphal

Unity and Resilience: International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples Ignites Unity at Imphal’s City Convention Centre

NILIM KASHYAP BARTHAKUR

August 11, 2025 – On August 9, 2025, the City Convention Centre in Imphal transformed into a vibrant hub of culture, dialogue, and solidarity as indigenous leaders, political figures, and community representatives from across Northeast India gathered to celebrate the International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples.

Organized by the Indigenous People’s Forum, Manipur (IPFM) under the esteemed guidance of the North East Indigenous People’s Forum (NEIPF), the event embraced the another powerful theme “Indigenous People’s Right to Self-Determination: A Pathway for Food Security and Sovereignty.”

With the United Nations’ support, this gathering brought together delegates from all seven Northeastern states, weaving a tapestry of shared struggles, aspirations, and unwavering commitment to preserving the region’s rich indigenous heritage.

The International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples, observed annually on August 9, is a global call to honour the contributions, rights, and resilience of indigenous communities. Established by the United Nations in 1994 to commemorate the first meeting of the UN Working Group on Indigenous Populations in 1982, the day highlights the pressing need to safeguard ancestral lands, promote self-determination, and ensure cultural and environmental sustainability.

For Northeast India’s diverse indigenous groups, who face challenges like illegal immigration, demographic shifts, and the scourge of illicit drugs, this day is a powerful reminder of their collective strength and the importance of unity in safeguarding their identities and futures in a rapidly evolving world.

The event kicked off with a stirring flag-hoisting ceremony at the Adimjati Girls Hostel. A soulful welcome song followed, its melodies echoing the deep-rooted traditions of the region and setting a tone of warmth and togetherness.

From the captivating presentations by Kasom Khullen Village and the Needy Home Academy to the soulful folk songs by Mangka Laihui and Chiru artistes, each act celebrated the region’s diversity.

A “Sundry Cultural Assortment” brought together a medley of dances and music, while special appearances by the Manipur Ningols Ministry and other guests added a heartfelt touch, drawing applause from the audience.

At the heart of the event was a powerful keynote address by Chief guest Pradyot Manikya Deb Barma, Head of the Royal House of Tripura and founder of the Tipra Motha Party. His words resonated deeply, urging the people of Manipur to take ownership of resolving the state’s ongoing conflicts.

Speaking with passion, he cautioned against letting national political parties manipulate local emotions, saying, “The Government of India has done a lot, but they need to do more with sincerity. A healing touch is required. Manipur’s people must not let national parties exploit their emotions for political gain. Brothers and sisters must sit together to find solutions.”

Barma highlighted the neglect faced by smaller states, noting, “Delhi’s priorities are driven by states with more Lok Sabha seats. Meghalaya, Manipur, Tripura, Nagaland, Mizoram, or Sikkim don’t get the same attention as Uttar Pradesh, Bengal, or Gujarat.” He added, “It’s easy to divide us by religion, language, or politics, but these are artificial divides. Outside the Northeast, our identity is often unrecognized, and we face discrimination. Our unity is our strength.”

Guests of Honour, including NPF Legislature Party leader Kuzholuzo (Azo) Nienu, former UNLF leader RK Meghen alias Sanayaima, Amrit Singh Pahwa,ex-commissioner,Imphal Municipality, and Ranjit Debbarma, enriched the discussions with their insights on regional challenges.

A recurring theme was the threat of illegal immigration, which speakers described as a danger to ancestral lands, cultural identities, and demographic balance. They also addressed the devastating impact of illicit drugs on youth and communities, calling for urgent action to curb this growing crisis.

Signatories, including NEIPF Chairman Anup Chetia, NIPF President Dr. Lima Jamir, and leaders from Meghalaya, Mizoram, Tripura, and Manipur, pledged to protect ancestral lands and cultural heritage under the guiding principle of “one Indigenous people, one voice, one movement.”

Anup Chetia’s remarks struck a firm tone, as he declared, “We will not accept a single person who came after February 24, 1826, in Assam” as indigenous. He clarified that their stance was not against any tribe or group but against post-colonial settlers, particularly those who arrived between 1910 and 1930 from East Bengal, rejecting 1951 as a base year for indigeneity.

Chetia acknowledged internal differences among indigenous groups but urged resolution through dialogue, emphasizing that conflicts in states like Assam and Manipur over who qualifies as indigenous must be addressed by governments with clarity and fairness.

IPFM President in Charge Rohan Philam delivered a stirring message, framing the event as more than a celebration; it was a rallying cry for unity, resilience, and sustained advocacy. He called on governments to formally recognize indigenous rights and support grassroots initiatives that preserve cultural identity while fostering sustainable livelihoods, such as community-led farming and traditional knowledge-based enterprises. “This day is a call to action,” Philam said, “To stand together, protect our heritage, and build a future where our children can thrive as proud indigenous peoples.”

The event’s cultural richness was matched by its intellectual depth, as delegates engaged in discussions about food security, land rights, and the role of indigenous knowledge in addressing modern challenges. The declaration’s focus on food security highlighted how self-determination enables communities to control their resources, ensuring sustainable access to traditional foods and livelihoods. By blending these serious conversations with vibrant performances, the event struck a balance between reflection and celebration, leaving attendees inspired and connected.

The program concluded with a moving closing song that echoed the spirit of solidarity, followed by heartfelt words of gratitude from organizers. Special thanks were extended to the volunteers who worked tirelessly behind the scenes, ensuring the event ran smoothly. As the crowd dispersed, the sense of unity lingered, with participants carrying forward a renewed commitment to their shared cause.

This celebration of the International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples was a testament to the resilience and vibrancy of Northeast India’s indigenous communities. By addressing critical issues like self-determination, cultural preservation, and social challenges, the event underscored the global significance of the day.

It served as a powerful reminder that indigenous voices, often sidelined, are essential to shaping a just and sustainable future. As these communities continue their fight for recognition, rights, and justice, the Imphal gathering stands as a beacon of hope, calling for unity and action to ensure their heritage and aspirations endure for generations to come.

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