Khashim recalls humble beginning

Mungchan Zimik
Ukhrul, Nov 23 : The Chingai AC MLA and the Minister for Animal Hus-bandry & Veterinary and Transport Khashim Vashum, who started his career as a sub-contractor under PHED, Manipur with a work order amount of just Rs 5226, fondly recalled his humble beginning as his venture KVS Group celebrated 40 incredible years of service at Community Recreation Centre, Lanaitang, Ukhrul.
Notably, his journey from a mere sub-contractor to a Cabinet Minister has set an excellent example for the younger generation to never give up to achieve their dreams.
Speaking at the anniversary programme, Khashim Vashum, who is the founder of KVS Group said he began his journey in 1984 after graduation as a sub- contractor under PHED with a purpose to serve his people at the best level.
Gradually, he diversified into small-scale ventures and invested his available resources to reselling steel plates, audio cassettes, woolen yarns, cow rearing and milk distribution, he said.
Khashim, born in 1964 in Tusom village and raised by Lungrei Vashum and mother Phamila Vashum,  further said he committed to his work and embraced the mantra- 'No job is too big nor too small, every opportunity is a chance to learn and earn'.
Although he went through many challenges, his vision and perseverance propelled him to the establishment of KVS group. The group expanded into diverse sectors such as KV Traders, KV Construction, KV Earth Movers, KV Oil Services, KV Stationery and KV Hotel, he said while glorifying the almighty God for the wonderful blessing upon his family.
From being a poor village boy of a remote village in Ukhrul district to representing his people in the Manipur State Legislative Assembly is an incredible journey, said Khashim who had not even owned a bicycle during his high school days.
"My dream has come true and I will serve my people at the best to ensure sustainable life for all," said Khashim, who is the eldest among 8 siblings (five brothers and three sisters).
Remembering the economic hardship faced by the family, he said he fortunately was awarded a scholarship for clearing the Middle School Leaving Certificate and it paved a way to progress in his educational studies.
"And, in spite of all odds and difficulties in life, I decided to live in a humble way with modesty, abiding by the teaching of Jesus Christ being a Christian", he said.
This has enabled him to make friendships with people of all economic backgrounds without indulging into bad habits, he said.
The bountiful blessing upon him was confined to his family and could not satisfy him. As such he was compelled to join electoral politics out of his passion to serve the people, he said.
"I was elected as an MLA for the first time in 2017 from 45- Chingai Assembly Constituency, again re-elected in 2022 and was given the charge of Minister for Veterinary & Animal Husbandry and Transport Department," he said.
The Minister graciously stated that he hosted the programme to thank for the wonderful blessing bestowed upon him and his family and to show his gratefulness to his parents for raising them in the best way.
Khashim, the father of three daughters and one son, also credited his success to his Primary School teachers ( Thikatei, Samuel and others ) for their marvelous role in moulding him in his early days.
Meanwhile, one of his closest friends Ringkahao Horam noted that Khashim Vashum is a man of destiny with strong determination and a generous person willing to serve needy people.
The celebration was attended by officials of the Transport Department, Veterinary, DC Ukhrul, SDOs, DLOs, UNC and TSL team, headmen, chairmen, party workers, supporters and well wishers.