AMUCO observes 30th foundation day

By Our Staff Reporter
IMPHAL, Feb 12 : The All Manipur United Clubs’ Organisation (AMUCO) celebrated its 30th foundation day with its president, Pheiroijam Nando Luwang hoisting the organisation’s flag at Kwakeithel Akham Leikai Community Hall today.
Speaking at the event, Pheiroijam Nando Luwang said the drug problem is a major issue and Manipur is beginning to be known for illicit poppy cultivation.
“Manipur was once known for Shirui Lily and Dzuko Lily, but now she is beginning to be known for illicit poppy cultivation,” he said.
The Government’s War on Drugs is destroying acres and acres of poppy plantations in the State. Even as the drive is on, the Government should be vigilant and it should take up steps to curb and control any violent incidents that may happen due to its war against illicit poppy cultivation. There may be some powerful persons with connections behind the poppy cultivation and as such the Government should be ready to face any eventualities, he said.
On the other hand, poppy cultivation must require chemical fertilizer in huge quantities.
When ordinary farmers are not getting enough fertilizer, how are the poppy cultivators getting the kind of fertilizer they need, he asked and added that MLAs and Ministers should properly monitor the supply and use of fertilizer in their respective Constituencies to check their usage in the poppy fields.
Also, the State is facing impacts of climate change including shortages of water. Only the people of the hills cannot be blamed for this. The people of the valley are also responsible, he said.
Artificial drought is one among many issues the people of Manipur are facing at present.
As development comes, many wetlands, rivers and hills have been exploited and destroyed, he said.
On the many civil bodies in Manipur, he said the State has 34 communities and all the civil bodies should not devise or encourage any policy and programme that may benefit their community but harm the others.
AMUCO will not tolerate any rhetoric or action that may harm the united structure and integrity of Manipur, he said urging every community based organisation to be liberal in their functioning and strengthen the bond of love between the communities.
He also called on all communities for peaceful coexistence of all and collective prosperity.
Further taking note of incidents of gun violence, he urged the Government to curb such crimes and called for stricter gun licensing.
As part of the event, AMUCO members and the gathering observed a 3-minute silence and paid floral tributes to departed members.
Cultural programmes and felicitation of leaders and representatives of different organisations marked the foundation day.
AMUCO advisor Ito Tongbram, Poirei Leimarol Apunba Meira Paibi Lup president L Memchoubi and All Manipur Meetei Pangal Club's Organisation president Manawar Ali attended the event as presidium members.