Manipur

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For other uses, see Manipur (disambiguation).

Manipur
ꯃꯅꯤ ꯄꯨ ꯤꯨꯔ

State of India

Kangla Sha

Seal
 Location of Manipur

Map of Manipur high

Coordinates (imphal):  24.817°N 93.95°ECoordinates:  24.817°N

93.95°E

Country  India
Region Northeast India

Formation 21 January 1972†

Capital Imphal
Districts 9

Government
 • Governor V. Shanmuganathan[1]
 • Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh(INC)
 • Legislature Unicameral (60 seats)
 • Parliamentary constituency Rajya Sabha 1
Lok Sabha 2
 • High Court Manipur High Court

Area
 • Total 22,327 km2(8,621 sq mi)
Area rank 24th

Population (2011[2])
 • Total 2,570,390
 • Rank 24th
 • Density 120/km2 (300/sq mi)

Time zone IST (UTC+05:30)

ISO 3166 code IN-MN

HDI  0.707 (high) I

HDI rank 5th (2005)

Literacy 79.21% (2011 Census)[2]

 Official language Manipuri

Website [Link]

†
 It elevated from the status of Union-Territories by the North-Eastern Areas
(Reorganisation) Act 1971

State symbols of Manipur

Animal Sangai

Bird Nongyeen

Flower Siroi lily

Tree Uningthou

Manipur (English pronunciation:  /ˌmənɪpʊr/) is a state in northeastern India, with the city of Imphal as

i

its capital. Manipur is sometimes called alternative names such as Kangleipak or Sanaleibak.

[3]
 It is bounded by Nagaland to the north, Mizoram to the south, and Assam to the
west; Burma lies to its east. The state covers an area of 22,327 square kilometres (8,621 sq mi).
Its people include the Meetei, Kuki, Naga, and Pangal peoples, who speak Sino-Tibetan
languages.
Manipur has been at the crossroads of Asian economic and cultural exchange for more than
2,500 years.[4] It has long connected the Indian subcontinent to Southeast Asia, enabling
migration of people, cultures and religions. [5]
Hinduism, the most widely professed religion in Manipur has declined from its peak share of
61.7% of the population in 1971 to 41.4% in 2011. [6] The second most widely professed religion
is Christianity, whose membership has increased from 19.5% in 1971 to 41.3% in 2011. If current
trends continue, Manipur is expected to join the list of Christian majority states of India by 2021.[6]
During the British Raj, the Kingdom of Manipur was one of the princely states.[7] Between 1917
and 1939, the people of Manipur pressed for their rights against the British Rule. By the late
1930s, the princely state of Manipur negotiated with the British administration its preference to be
part of India, rather than Burma.[8][page  needed] These negotiations were cut short with the outbreak of
World War II. On 21 September 1949, Maharaja Budhachandra signed a Treaty of Accession
merging the kingdom into India. This merger is disputed by groups in Manipur as having been
completed without consensus and under duress.
The dispute and differing visions for the future has resulted in a 50-year insurgency in the state
for independence from India, as well as in violence between ethnic groups in the state. [9] Over
2010–2013, the militant insurgency was responsible for the violent death of about 1 civilian per
100,000 people, each year.[10] The world average annual death rate from intentional violence has
been 7.9 per 100,000 people. [11]
The Meetei ethnic group,[12] represents 53% of the population of Manipur state. The main
language of the state is Meeteilon (Manipuri). By comparison, indigenous tribal
peoples constitute 20% of the state population; they are distinguished by dialects and culture that
are often village-based. Manipur's ethnic groups practice a variety of religions. [13]
Manipur has primarily an agrarian economy, with significant hydroelectric power generation
potential. It is connected to other areas by daily flights through Imphal airport, the second largest
in northeastern India.[14]
 Manipur is credited with introducing polo to Europeans.

Contents
  [hide] 

 1Etymology
 2History
 3Geography
o 3.1Flora
o 3.2Climate
 4Demographics
o 4.1Population
o 4.2Tribes
o 4.3Languages
 4.3.1Languages of hill people
 5Religion
o 5.1Hinduism
o 5.2Christianity
o 5.3Meeteism and Sanamahi
o 5.4Islam
 6Government
o 6.1Districts
o 6.2Security and insurgency
 7Economy
o 7.1Electricity
o 7.2Agriculture
o 7.3Transportation infrastructure
o 7.4Tourism
 7.4.1Imphal (capital)
 7.4.2Lakes and islands
 7.4.3Hills and valleys
 7.4.4Eco tourism
 7.4.5Waterfalls
 7.4.6Natural caves
 8Education
 9Culture
o 9.1Manipuri dance (Ras Lila)
o 9.2Chorus Repertory Theatre
 10Sports
 11Festivals
o 11.1Ningol Chakouba
o 11.2Kut
o 11.3Yaosang
o 11.4Khuado Pawi
o 11.5Gaan-Ngai
 12Media
o 12.1Film
 13Notable people
 14See also
 15References
 16External links
Etymology[edit]
Manipur has been known throughout the ages as Kangleipak or Meeteileipak [15][page  needed] as well as
by other names.[16][page  needed]Sanamahi Laikan wrote that officials during the reign of Meidingu
Pamheiba in the eighteenth century adopted Manipur's new name.
According to Sakok Lamlen, the area had different names in its history. During
the Hayachak period, it was known as Mayai Koiren poirei namthak saronpung or Tilli Koktong
Ahanba; in the Khunungchak period it was Meera Pongthoklam. During the Langbachak era, it
became Tilli Koktong Leikoiren, and finally Muwapali in the Konnachakepoch.[17][page  needed]
Neighbouring cultures each had differing names for Manipur and its people.
The Shan or Pong called the area Cassay, the Burmese Kathe, and the Assamese Meklee. In
the first treaty between the British East India Company and Meidingu Chingthangkhomba
(Bhagyachandra) signed in 1762, the kingdom was recorded as Meckley. Bhagyachandra and
his successors issued coins engraved with "Manipureshwar", or "lord of Manipur", and the British
discarded the name Meckley. Later on, the work Dharani Samhita (1825–34) popularised
the Sanskrit legends of the origin of Manipur's name.[18]
The term Kanglei, meaning "of Manipur/Kangleipak", is used to refer to items associated with the
state where the term Manipuri is a recent given name.

Examples using the term "Kanglei" Translation

Kanglei of Kangleipak/Manipur

Kangleicha People of Kangleipak/Manipur

Kanglei foods Foods of Kangleipak/Manipur

Kanglei style Style of Kangleipak/Manipur

History[edit]
Main articles: History of Manipur and Manipur (princely state)

The Kangla Sha, the state emblem

Anglo-Manipur War of 1891

Kangla Gate, the west entrance to the Kangla Fort

The Kingdom of Manipur was one of the many hundreds of kingdoms in south and southeast
Asia.[citation needed] Ancient Manipur dates to 50 BC.[citation needed]. There is no recorded data about the early
history of Manipur. Legendary chronicles claim that Ningthou Kangba, the first King of Manipur,
ruled from Kangla at Imphal in 33 AD. He is also known as Meidingu Nongdaa Lairen
Paakhangba.[citation needed]
Manipur came under British rule in the eighteenth century as a princely state (Kangleipak).
Europeans first observed local people playing polo here and were taken by the game.
Captain Robert Stewart and Lieutenant Joseph Sherer [19] of the British colonial era first watched
locals play a rules-based pulu or sagolkangjei (literally, horse and stick) game in 1859. They
adopted its rules, calling the game polo, and playing it on their horses. The game spread among
the British in Calcutta and then to England.[20][21]
During World War II, Manipur was the scene of many fierce battles between the Japanese
invaders and the British Indian forces. The Japanese were beaten back before they could
enter Imphal, which was one of the turning points of the war.
After the war, the Manipur Constitution Act of 1947 established a democratic form of government,
with the Maharaja as the executive head. In 1949, Maharaja Bodhchandra was summoned
to Shillong, where he signed the instrument of accession to merge the kingdom into India.
Thereafter the legislative assembly was dissolved, and Manipur became part of the Republic of
India in October 1949.[22] It was made a Union Territory in 1956. [23] and a fully-fledged State in
1972.[24]
A separatist movement has been active in Manipur since 1964, when United National Liberation
Front was founded. Several groups have used violence toward achieving their goal of a
sovereign Manipur. In addition, tribal peoples have demanded division of the present state into
two or three Indian states along ethnic lines. This is considered one of India's "sensitive areas",
due to its political troubles and isolated geography. Foreign travelers must gain permission from
the government to enter the state. [25]
Manipur has had a long record of insurgency and inter-ethnic violence. [26][27] The first armed
opposition group in Manipur, the United National Liberation Front (UNLF), was founded in 1964,
which declared that it wanted to gain independence from India and form Manipur as a new
country. Over time, many more groups formed in Manipur, each with different goals, and deriving
support from diverse ethnic groups in Manipur. For example, in 1977 the People's Revolutionary
Party of Kangleipak (PREPAK) was formed, the People's Liberation Army (PLA) was formed in
1978 whichHuman Rights Watch states as having received arms and training from China. In
1980, the Kangleipak Communist Party (KCP) was formed. These groups began a spree of bank
robberies and attacks on police officers and government buildings. The state government
appealed to the central government in New Delhi for support in combating this violence. [9]
In 1980, the central government brought the entire state of Manipur under the Armed Forces
(Special Powers) Act, 1958 (AFSPA) because its state government claimed that the use of the
Armed Forces in aid of the state and local police is necessary to prevent violent deaths and to
maintain law and order.[citation needed]
Since 1980, the application of AFSPA has been at the heart of concerns about human
rights violations in the region, such as arbitrary killings, torture, cruel, inhuman and degrading
treatment and enforced disappearances. Its continued application has led to numerous protests,
notably the longstanding hunger strike by Irom Sharmila Chanu.[citation needed]

Geography[edit]

Loktak Lake, the largest lake in the state.

The state lies at a latitude of 23°83'N – 25°68'N and a longitude of 93°03'E – 94°78'E. The total
area covered by the state is 22,347 square kilometres (8,628 sq mi). The capital lies in an oval-
shaped valley of approximately 700 square miles (2,000 km2) surrounded by blue mountains and
is at an elevation of 790 metres (2,590 ft) above sea level.[28] The slope of the valley is from north
to south. The mountain ranges create a moderated climate, preventing the cold winds from the
north from reaching the valley and barring cyclonic storms originating from the Bay of Bengal.[citation
needed]

A tree amid Manipur hills.

The state has four major river basins: the Barak River Basin (Barak Valley) to the west,
theManipur River Basin in central Manipur, the Yu River Basin in the east, and a portion of the
Lanye River Basin in the north.[29] The water resources of Barak and Manipur river basins are
about 1.8487 Mham. The overall water balance of the state amounts to 0.7236 Mham in the
annual water budget.[30] (By comparison, India receives 400 Mham (million hectare meters) of rain
annually.[31])
The Barak River, the largest of Manipur, originates in the Manipur Hills and is joined by
tributaries, such as the Irang, Maku, and Tuivai. After its junction with the Tuivai, the Barak River
turns north, forms the border with Assam State, and then enters the Cachar Assam just
above Lakhipur. The Manipur river basin has eight major rivers: the Manipur, Imphal, Iril,
Nambul, Sekmai, Chakpi, Thoubal and Khuga. All these rivers originate from the surrounding
hills.[citation needed]
Almost all the rivers in the valley area are in the mature stage and therefore deposit their
sediment load in the Loktak lake.[28] The rivers draining the Manipur Hills are comparatively
young, due to the hilly terrain through which they flow. These rivers are corrosive and assume
turbulent form in the rainy season. Important rivers draining the western area include the
Maku, Barak, Jiri, Irang and Leimatak. Rivers draining the eastern part of the state, the Yu River
Basin, include the Chamu, Khunou and other short streams. [citation needed]
Manipur may be characterised as two distinct physical regions: an outlying area of rugged hills
and narrow valleys, and the inner area of flat plain, with all associated land forms. These two
areas are distinct in physical features and are conspicuous in flora and fauna. The valley region
has hills and mounds rising above the flat surface. The Loktak lake is an important feature of the
central plain. The total area occupied by all the lakes is about 600 km2. The altitude ranges from
40 m at Jiribam to 2,994 m at Mt. Iso Peak near Mao Songsong.
The soil cover can be divided into two broad types, viz. the red ferruginous soil in the hill area
and the alluvium in the valley. The valley soils generally contain loam, small rock fragments,
sand and sandy clay, and are varied. On the plains, especially flood plains and deltas, the soil is
quite thick. The top soil on the steep slopes is very thin. Soil on the steep hill slopes is subject to
high erosion, resulting in gullies and barren rock slopes. The normal pH value ranges from 5.4 to
6.8.[32]
Flora[edit]

Flowers lining up the Foothills

Natural vegetation occupies an area of about 14,365 square kilometres (5,546 sq mi), nearly
64% of the total geographical area of the state.[citation needed] Vegetation consists of plants ranging
from short and tall grasses, reeds and bamboos, to trees. Broadly, there are four types of forests:
Tropical Semi-evergreen, Dry Temperate Forest, Sub-Tropical Pine and Tropical Moist
Deciduous.[citation needed]
There are forests of teak, pine, oak, uningthou, leihao, bamboo, and cane. Rubber, tea, coffee,
orange, and cardamom are grown in hill areas. Rice is a staple food for Manipuris. Rice and cash
crops make up the main vegetation cover in the valley. [citation needed]
Climate[edit]
The Dzuko Valley lying on the border of Manipur and Nagaland has a temperate climate

The climate of Manipur is largely influenced by the topography of this hilly region. Lying 790
meters above sea level, Manipur is wedged among hills on all sides. This northeastern corner of
India enjoys a generally amiable climate, though the winters can be a chilly. The maximum
temperature in the summer months is 32 °C (90 °F). In winter the temperature often falls below
0 °C (32 °F), bringing frost. Snow sometimes falls in hilly regions due to the Western
Disturbance.[citation needed] The coldest month is January, and the warmest July.
The state is drenched in rains from May until mid-October. It receives an average annual rainfall
of 1,467.5 millimetres (57.78 in). Rain distribution varies from 933 millimetres (36.7 in)
in Imphal to 2,593 millimetres (102.1 in) in Tamenglong. The precipitation ranges from light
drizzle to heavy downpour. The normal rainfall of Manipur enriches the soil and helps in
agriculture and irrigation. The South WesterlyMonsoon picks up moisture from the Bay of
Bengal and heads toward Manipur, hits the eastern Himalaya ranges and produces a massive
amount of rain. The climate is salubrious with approximate average annual rainfall varying from
933 millimetres (36.7 in) at Imphal to 2,593 millimetres (102.1 in) at Tamenglong. The
temperature ranges from sub0 to 36 °C (32 to 97 °F).[citation needed]

Demographics[edit]
Population[edit]

[show]Population Growth 

Manipur has a population of 2,721,756. Of this total, 58.9% live in the valley and the remaining
41.1% in the hilly regions. The hills are inhabited mainly by the Kuki, Naga, and Zomi, and
smaller tribal communities and the valley mainly by the Meetei Sanamahi,Meetei Hindu,Meetei
Christian, Meetei Brahmin and Meetei Pangal (Meetei Muslim).Naga and Kuki settlements are
found in the valley region. Racially, Manipuri people are unique; they have features similar
toSoutheast Asian.[34]
The Nagas are the second largest people in population next to the Meetei. Few of them live in
the plain area; most of them live in the hill area from generation to generation. [citation needed]
The distribution of area, population and density, and literacy rate as per the 2001 Census
provisional figures are as below: [citation needed]

[hide]Demographics of Manipur (2001)

Total Population 2,388,634

Male Population 1,207,338

 Female Population 1,181,296

Rural Population 1,818,224

Urban Population 570,410

Child Sex Ratio 978 female to 1000 male

Density (per km2) 107

Literacy 1,429,656 (68.87%)

Towns 33

Tribes[edit]
The Meetei[12] constitute a majority of the state's population. According to 1891 census Meetei
were recorded as a forest tribe. In 1901 Meetei were listed as main tribe of Manipur. [35] They live
primarily in the state's valley region. [citation needed]
Kukis and Nagas are the major tribe conglomerates. The Nagas are further sub-divided into sub-
tribes: Tangkhul, Maram,Poumai
Naga, Sumi, Angami, Ao, Chakhesang, Chang, Khiamniungan, Konyak, Liangmai, Lotha, Pochur
y, Rongmei, Zeme, and Mao.[36]
Languages[edit]

Languages of Manipur in 2001[37][38][39]

  Manipuri (53.00%)
  Thado (7.48%)
  Tangkhul (5.86%)
  Kabui (3.68%)
  Paite (2.02%)
  Hmar (1.8%)
  Bengali (1.13%)
  Others (25.03%)

The official languages are Manipuri (Meeteilon) and English.

The term Meetei includes Meetei Sanamahi, Meetei Christians, Meetei Hindus and Meetei
Brahmins (locally called "Meetei Bamons"). The language of Meetei
people, Meithei (or Manipuri), is the lingua franca in Manipur and is one of the languages listed in
the Eighth Schedule of the Indian Constitution. Manipur has a diverse group of ethnic groups
speaking different languages and dialects, practicing Hinduism, Christianity, Sanamahism,
Buddhism, Islam and other folk religions. [13]
The languages spoken in Manipur are Manipuri (1,266,098), Poumai
language/Poula (1,79,189), Thado (178,696), Tangkhul (139,979),Kabui (87,950), Paite (48,379), 
Hmar (43,137), Vaiphei (37,553), Liangmei (32,787), Bengali (27,100), Tamil (25,000), Hindi
(24,720), Maring(22,154), Anal (22,187), Zou (20,626), Kom (14,558), Gangte (13,752), Kuki
(12,900), and Simte (10,028).
Languages of hill people[edit]
There are 29 dialects spoken in Manipur. The six main hill dialects recognised by Government of
Manipur for the medium of instruction and examination up to class XII (12th grade) are: [40][clarification
needed]

1. Mizo, dialect of the Mizo people

2. Zou, dialect of the Zou people
3. Poula, dialect of the Poumai Naga
4. Thadou, dialect of Thadou people, the second language in the state after Meeteilon
during the Colonial Period.
5. Vaiphei, dialect of Vaiphei people
6. Tangkhul, dialect of Tangkhul people
7. Paite, dialect of Paite people
8. Hmar, dialect of Hmar people
9. Mao, dialect of Mao people
10. Lianglad, dialect of Liangmai Naga People
11. Rongmei, dialect of Rongmei people
12. Maring, dialect of Maring Naga/Maring, Maring Khoibu, Maring Narum-saibol people
13. Maram, dialect of Maram Naga
14. Gangte, dialect of Gangte people
15. Uipo, dialect spoken by Khoibu people
16. Monsang dialect spoken by Monsang
17. Anal dialect spoken by Anal
18. Chothe dialect spoken by Chothe
19. Kom dialect spoken by Kom
20. Lamkang dialect spoken by Lamkang
21. Thangal dialect spoken by Thangal

Religion[edit]
Religion in Manipur (2011)[13]

  Hinduism (41.4%)
  Christianity (41.3%)
  Islam (8.39%)
  Sanamahism (8.18%)
  Buddhism (0.24%)
  Sikhism (0.05%)
  Jainism (0.05%)
  Not religious (2.98%)

Hinduism[edit]

Ningthoukhong Gopinath Temple

About 41.4% of Manipuri people are Hindus. Hinduism is mostly professed by Meetei people,
who are majority in the state. However, a large minority of Meetei people practices Sanamahism
(traditional Meetei religion) and Christianity. Vaishnavism school of Hinduism became a dominant
force in Manipur in the eighteenth century when the king, Garib Niwas (1708–48), declared it as
the officialState religion. This was the Vaishnavism of Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, the Bhakti
preacher of Bengal, which stressed Krishna Bhakti. The Hindu population is heavily concentrated
in the Manipur valley among the Meetei people. The districts of Bishnupur, Thoubal, Imphal East
and Imphal West are all Hindu majorities averaging 67.62% (range 62.27–74.81%) according to
the 2011 census data.[41]
Christianity[edit]
[Link]'s Cathedral at Imphal

Main article: Christianity in Manipur

Christianity is the religion of 41.3% of the people in the state. It was brought by missionaries to
Manipur in the 19th century. Christianity brought a marked change towards the civilization of the
hill people.[citation needed] In the 20th century, a few Christian schools were established, which
introduced Western-type education. Respected schools in Manipur are Little Flower School in
Imphal, Don Bosco High School in Imphal, St. Joseph's Convent, and Nirmalabas High School,
which are all run by Catholic priests and nuns. The overwhelming majority of the population in
the Hill districts are Christian.[41]
Meeteism and Sanamahi[edit]

Sanamahi temple at Kangla

Folk religions are practiced by about 8% of the state's people. These religions have a long
history in Manipur. Sanamahism is the ancient indigenous religion. Sanamahi worship is
concentrated around the Sun God/Sanamahi. The early Manipuri worshiped a Supreme deity,
Lainingthou Soralel, and followed their ancestors. Their ancestor worship and animism was
based on Umang Lai – ethnic governing deities worshiped in sacred groves. Some of the
traditional deities (Lais) whom Manipuri worship are Atiya Sidaba, Pakhangba, Sanamahi,
Leimaren, Oknarel, Panganba, Thangjing, Marjing, Wangbaren, and Koubru.
The religious life of the people, even when they adopted non-mainstream Hinduism, retained
many characteristics inherited from their prehistoric ancestors. The essentials remain
recognisable to the present day[42] but did not win widespread adoption until relatively recently.
Even so, every Manipuri following Hinduism has a sacred abode in the southwestern section of
their homes where they worship Lainingthou Sanamahi. [citation needed]
According to the 2011 population census the "Other religions and persuasions" category, which
included minor Indian religions (other than Hinduism, Islam, Christianity, Sikhism, Buddhism and
Jainism), accounted for 8.19% of the population. Like the Hindu population they are concentrated
in the Manipur valley districts, where the Meetei people are dominant and account for 14% of the
valley population (range 10–16% of the population). [41]
Islam[edit]
See also: Muslims of Manipur and Meetei people
Manipuri Muslims, known locally as Meetei Pangal, constitute about 8.3% of the state population
as per 2011 census. Sufi saint, Shaikh Shah Jalal d-Dīn al-Mujarrad al-Turk al Naqshbandi,
came to Sylhet in 1303 AD,[citation needed] and Hazrat Azan Fakir Baghdadi arrived in 1690 AD
in Assam.[citation needed] They influenced Manipuri Muslims. They belong to the Sunni group
of Hanafi school of thought and there are Arab, Bangladesh, Turani, Bengali and Mughal or
Chaghtai Turk sections among Manipuri Muslims.[43]
The literacy rate among Muslims is 58.6 percent (male 75 percent and female 41.6 percent)
below the state's average of 70.5 percent (male 80.3 percent and female 60.5 percent). In 1995,
out of 135,000 Muslims, 5,704 had matriculated from secondary school. There was a total of
1,822 who had graduated in addition to 86 technical and professional graduates. There were
51 Class I Muslim officers including three women, 101 Class II officers and 1,270 and 1,663
employees belonging to Class III and IV categories respectively.[44]

Government[edit]
This section requires expansion.
(January 2015)

Districts[edit]

Map of the districts of Manipur

Manipur has currently nine administrative districts.

Area Populatio
District Headquarters Map code
(km2) n

Bishnupur 496 237,399 Bishnupur BI

Churachandpu
4570 274,143 Churachandpur CC
r

Chandel 3313 144,182 Chandel CD

Imphal East 709 456,113 Porompat EI

Imphal West 519 517,992 Lamphelpat WI

 Area Populatio
District Headquarters Map code
(km2) n

Senapati 3271 193,744 Senapati SE

Tamenglong 4391 140,651 Tamenglong TA

Thoubal 514 422,168 Thoubal TH

Ukhrul 4544 183,998 Ukhrul UK

Security and insurgency[edit]

PREPAK insurgents are one of many groups in Manipur seeking independence from India.

The violence in Manipur extend beyond those between Indian security forces and insurgent
armed groups. There is violence between the Meeteis, Nagas, Kukis and other tribal groups.
[9]
 They have formed splinter groups who disagree with each other. Other than UNLF, PLA and
PREPAK, Manipuri insurgent groups include Revolutionary Peoples Front (RPF), Manipur
Liberation Front Army (MLFA), Kanglei Yawol Khnna Lup (KYKL), Revolutionary Joint Committee
(RJC), Kangleipak Communist Party (KCP), Peoples United Liberation Front (PULF), National
Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN-K), National Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN-I/M),
Kuki National Front (KNF), Kuki National Army (KNA), Kuki Defence Force (KDF), Kuki
Democratic Movement (KDM), Kuki National Organisation (KNO), Kuki Security Force (KSF),
Chin Kuki Revolutionary Front (CKRF), Kom Rem Peoples Convention (KRPC), Zomi
Revolutionary Volunteers (ZRV), Zomi Revolutionary Army (ZRA), Zomi Reunification
Organisation (ZRO), and Hmar Peoples Convention (HPC).[9]
The Kuki insurgent groups want a separate state for the Kukis to be carved out from the present
state of Manipur. The Kuki insurgent groups are under two umbrella organisations: Kuki National
Organisation (KNO) and United Peoples Forum.[45] The Nagas wish to annex part of Manipur and
merge with a greater Nagaland or Nagalim, which is in conflict with Meetei insurgent demands for
the integrity of their vision of an independent state. There were many tensions between the tribes
and numerous clashes between Naga and Kukis, Meeteis and Muslims. [9]
According to SATP, there has been a dramatic decline in fatalities in Manipur since 2009. In
2009, 77 civilians died (about 3 per 100,000 people). [10] From 2010 onwards, about 25 civilians
have died in militants-related violence (about 1 per 100,000 people), dropping further to 21
civilian deaths in 2013 (or 0.8 per 100,000 people). However, there were 76 explosions in 2013,
compared to 107 explosions in 2012. Different groups claimed responsibility for explosions, some
claiming they were targeting competing militant groups, others claiming their targets were state
and central government officials.[46] The average worldwide violent unnatural death rate between
2004 and 2009 was 7.9 per 100,000 per year.[11]

Economy[edit]

Bamboo is common in Manipur, and an important contributor to its economy as well as cuisine. Above
is soibum yendem eromba, a bamboo shoot cuisine of Manipur.

The 2012–2013 gross state domestic product of Manipur at market prices was about ₹10,188
crore (US$1.5 billion).[47] Its economy is primarily agriculture, forestry, cottage and trade driven. [48]
Manipur acts as India's "Gateway to the East" through Moreh and Tamu towns, the land route for
trade between India and Burma and other Southeast Asian countries.
Manipur has the highest number of handicrafts units and the highest number of craftspersons in
the northeastern region of India.[49]
Electricity[edit]
Manipur produced about 0.1 gigawatt-hours (0.36 TJ) of electricity in 2010 with its infrastructure.
[50]
 The state has hydroelectric power generation potential, estimated to be over 2 gigawatt-hours
(7.2 TJ). As of 2010, if half of this potential is realized, it is estimated that this would
supply 24/7 electricity to all residents, with a surplus for sale, as well as supplying the Burma
power grid.[51]
Agriculture[edit]
Manipur's climate and soil conditions make it ideally suited for horticultural crops. Growing there
are rare and exotic medicinal and aromatic plants. [49] Some cash crops suited for Manipur include
litchi, cashew nuts, walnuts, orange, lemon, pineapple, papaya, passion fruit, peach, pear and
plum.[48]
The state is covered with over 3,000 square kilometres (1,200 sq mi) of bamboo forests, making
it one of India's largest contributor to its bamboo industry. [49]
Transportation infrastructure[edit]

Imphal airport is the second largest airport in India's northeast.

Tulihal Airport, Changangei, Imphal, the only airport of Manipur, connects directly
with Delhi, Kolkata, Guwahati, and Agartala. It has been upgraded as an International airport. As
India's second largest airport in the northeast, it serves as a key logistical centre for northeastern
states.[14] National Highway NH-39 links Manipur with the rest of the country through the railway
stations at Dimapur in Nagaland at a distance of 215 km (134 mi) from Imphal. National Highway
53 (India) connects Manipur with another railway station at Silchar in Assam, which is 269 km
(167 mi) away from Imphal. The road network of Manipur, with a length of 7,170 km (4,460 mi)
connects all the important towns and distant villages.
In 2010, Indian government announced that it is considering an Asian infrastructure network from
Manipur to Vietnam.[52]
The proposed Trans-Asian Railway (TAR), if constructed, will pass through Manipur,
connecting India to Burma, Thailand, Malaysia andSingapore.
Tourism[edit]
Main article: Tourism in North East India
The tourist season is from October to February, when it is often sunny without being hot and
humid.[citation needed]
The culture features martial arts, dance, theatre and sculpture. Greenery accompanies a
moderate climate. The seasonal Shirui Lily plant at Ukhrul (district), Dzukou valley at
Senapati, Sangai (Brow antlered deer) and the floating islands at Loktak Lake are among the
rarities of the area. Polo, which can be called a royal game, originated in Manipur.
Imphal (capital)[edit]

A view of Imphal City

The city is inhabited by the Meetei, who predominate, also Pangals (Manipuri Muslims) and other
tribes.
The city contains the Tulihal Airport.
The district is divided into East and West. The Khuman Lampak Sports Complex was built for the
1997 National Games. The stadium is used for a sports venue. It also contains a
cyclists' velodrome. Most of the imported goods are sold here at its Paona Bazaar, Gam-bir Sing
Shopping Complex, Ningthibi Collections and Leima Plaza.
Shree Govindajee Temple, Andro village, and the Manipur State Museum are in the city.
Lakes and islands[edit]
Rare birds and flowers include:Nongin[53] is the state bird (top) and Siroi Lily[54] is its state flower (middle).
Leimaram falls, bottom, is a local attraction.

48 km (30 mi) from Imphal, lies the largest fresh water lake in the North East India, the Loktak
Lake, a miniature inland sea. There is a Tourist Bungalow atop Sendra Island. Life on the lake
includes small islands that are floating weed on which live the Lake people, the blue waters of
the lake, and colourful water plants. There is a Sendra Tourist Home with an attached cafeteria in
the middle of the lake. Floating islands are made out of the tangle of watery weeds and other
plants. The wetland is swampy and is favourable for a number of species. It is in the district
of Bishnupur. The etymology of Loktak is "lok = stream / tak = the end" (End of the Streams).
[28]
 Sendra park and resort is opening on the top of Sendra hills and attracting the tourist.
Hills and valleys[edit]
Kaina is a hillock about 921 metres (3,022 ft) above sea level. It is a sacred place for Manipuri
Hindus. The legend is that, Shri Govindajee appeared in the dream of his devotee, Shri Jai Singh
Maharaja, and asked the saintly king to install in a temple, an image of Shri Govindajee. It was to
be carved out of a jack fruit tree, which was then growing at Kaina. It is 29 km (18 mi) from
Imphal.
The Dzükou Valley is in Senapati district bordering with Kohima. There are seasonal flowers and
a number of flora and fauna. Dzükou derives its meaning from the Angami/Mao word that
translates to "Cold Water", referring to the cold stream that flows through the valley. It is at an
altitude of 2,438 metres (7,999 ft) above sea level, behind the Japfü Peak in Nagaland. The rare
Dzükou lily is found only in this valley.[citation needed]
Eco tourism[edit]
Sangai, the state animal, at Keibul Lamjao National Park. In the wild, it has a habit of waiting and looking
back at viewers.[55]

Keibul Lamjao National Park, 48 km (30 mi) away from Imphal is an abode of the rare and
endangered species of brow antlered deer. This ecosystem contains 17 rare species of
mammals.[28] It is the only floating national park of the world.[citation needed]
Six kilometres (3.7 mi) to the west of Imphal, at the foot of the pine growing hillocks at Iroisemba
on the Imphal-Kangchup Road are the Zoological Gardens. Some brow antlered deer (Sangai)
are housed there.
Waterfalls[edit]
Sadu Chiru waterfall is near Ichum Keirap village[56] 27 km (17 mi) from Imphal, in the Sadar hill
area, Senapati district. This consists of three falls with the first fall about 30 metres (98 ft) high.
Agape Park is in the vicinity. It is owned and managed by Kamlun Telien of Ichum Keirap. [citation needed]
Natural caves[edit]
Thalon Cave (around 910 metres (2,990 ft) above sea level) is one of the historical sites of
Manipur under Tamenglong district. It is around 185 kilometres (115 mi) from the state capital
and around 30 kilometres (19 mi) from Tamenglong district headquarters in north side. From
Thalon village, this cave is 4–5 kilometres (2.5–3.1 mi).[57]
Khangkhui Cave is a natural limestone cave in Ukhrul district. The big hall in the cave is the
darbar hall of the Devil King living deep inside while the northern hall is the royal bedroom,
according to local folklore. During World War II, villagers sought shelter here. This cave is an
hour's trek from Khangkui village. [58]

Education[edit]
See also: List of institutions of higher education in Manipur
Manipur schools are run by the state and central government or by private organisation.
Instruction is mainly in English. Under the 10+2+3 plan, students may enroll in general or
professional degree programs after passing the Higher Secondary Examination (the grade 12
examination). The main universities are Manipur University, Central Agricultural University.

Culture[edit]
Main article: Manipuri dance
Pena is an ancient Manipuri musical instrument, particularly popular among the Meetei people.

Secular theatre is mostly confined to themes that are not religious; it is performed in the secular
or profane spheres. In these areShumang lila and Phampak lila (stage drama). Shumang lila is
very popular. Etymologically Shumang lila is the combination of "Shumang" (courtyard) and "Lila"
(play or performance). It is performed in an area of 13×13 ft in the centre of any open space, in a
very simple style without a raised stage, set design, or heavy props such as curtains, background
scenery, and visual effects. It uses one table and two chairs, kept on one side of the performance
space. Its claim as the "theatre of the masses" is underlined by the way it is performed in the
middle of an audience that surrounds it, leaving one passage as entrance and exit. [citation needed]
The world of Phampak lila (stage drama) performed in the proscenium theatre is similar, in form,
to the Western theatrical model and Indian Natyasastra model though its contents are
indigenous. The so-called modern theatre descended on Manipuri theatre culture with the
performance of Pravas Milan (1902) under the enthusiastic patronage of Sir Churchand Maharaj
(1891–1941). The pace of theatrical movement was geared up with the institution of groups such
as Manipur Dramatic Union (MDU) (1930), Arian Theatre (1935), Chitrangada Natya Mandir
(1936), Society Theatre (1937), Rupmahal (1942), Cosmopolitan Dramatic Union (1968), and the
Chorus Repertory Theatre of Ratan Thiyam (1976).[citation needed] These groups started experimenting
with types of plays apart from historical and pauranic ones. Today Manipuri theatre is well
respected because of excellent productions shown in India and abroad. Manipuri plays, both
Shumang lila and stage lila, have been a regular feature in the annual festival of the National
School of Drama, New Delhi.[citation needed]

The Chorus Repertory Theatre,Imphal, founded by Ratan Thiyam

Iskcon led by Bhaktisvarupa Damodara Swami started a network of schools in Northeastern

India, where more than 4000 students receive education centred on Vaishnava spiritual values.
In 1989 he founded "Ranganiketan Manipuri Cultural Arts Troupe", which has approximately 600
performances at over 300 venues in over 15 countries. Ranganiketan (literally "House of Colorful
Arts") is a group of more than 20 dancers, musicians, singers, martial artists, choreographers
and craft artisans.[citation needed] Some of them have received international acclaim.
Manipuri dance (Ras Lila)[edit]

The Shrine – the main theatre

A classical form of Manipuri dance based and inspired by the theme of Lord Krishna and his
beloved Radha's love story and the devotion of the Gopis (companions) toward Lord Krishna.
This graceful and slow movement makes it one of the most acclaimed classical dances of India.
The costume is elegant, as there are nicely embroidered clothes that give lustre to the beauty of
the art. This dance is very [Link] led by Bhaktisvarupa Damodar Swami has put
Manipuri Rasa Leela on the global map with its performance in many prestigious events like
many World Conference on science and religion, United Religions Initiative conference, Kumbha
Mela and many more.[citation needed]
Chorus Repertory Theatre[edit]
The auditorium of the theatre is on the outskirts of Imphal and the campus stretches for about 2
acres (8,100 m2). It has housing and working quarters to accommodate a self-sufficiency of life.
The theatre association has churned out internationally acclaimed plays
likeChakravyuha and Uttarpriyadashi. Its 25 years of existence in theatre had disciplined its
performers to a world of excellence. Chakravyuhataken from the Mahabharat epic had won
Fringe Firsts Award, 1987 at the Edinburgh International Theater Festival. Chakravyuha deals
with the story of Abhimanyu (son of Arjun) of his last battle and approaching death,
whereas Uttarpriyadashi is an 80-minute exposition ofEmperor Ashoka's redemption.[citation needed]

Sports[edit]
Main article: Sports in Manipur

Traditional Polo in Manipur

Manipur is home to many sports personnel. Outdoor sports include Mukna, Mukna

Kangjei (or Khong kangjei), Sagol Kangjei (Polo), Yubi lakpi (Coconut Rugby), Oo-Laobi,
Hiyang-Tannaba (Boat Rowing Race), and Arambai Hunba.[citation needed]

Festivals[edit]
Lai Haroaba Manipur festival dance folk dance of manipur

The festivals of Manipur are Lui-ngai-ni Ningol Chakouba, Yaoshang, Gan-ngai, Chumpha,
Cheiraoba, Kang and Heikru Hidongba, as well as the broader religious festivals Eid-Ul-Fitr, Eid-
Ul-Adha and Christmas. Most of these festivals are celebrated on the basis of lunar calendar.
Almost every festival celebrated in other states of India is observed here, and it makes Manipur a
mini metropolis.[citation needed]
Ningol Chakouba[edit]
Held in November,[59] this is a social festival of the Meeteis and many communities of Manipur
where married women (Ningol) are invited (Chakouba, literally calling to a meal; for dinner or
lunch) to a feast at their parental house with their children. Besides the feast, gifts are given to
the women/invitees and to their children. It is the festival that binds and revives the family
relations between the girls married away and the parental family. Nowadays, other communities
have started celebrating this kind of a family-bonding festival. It is held every year on the 2nd
lunar day of Heyangei (mostly during the month of November; sometimes it falls in October). [citation
needed]

"Ningol" can mean a family's woman or a girl child and is not necessarily married. [citation needed]
Kut[edit]
Held after the Harvest festival in November, [60][61] this festival predominantly celebrated by Kuki-
Chin-Mizo tribes in Manipur has become one of the leading festivals of the state. Kut is not
restricted to a community or tribe — the whole state populace participates in merriment. On 1
November of every year the state declared holiday for Kut celebration. The festival is marked by
cultural events such as traditional dances, folk dances, songs, sports and the Miss Kut contest.
[citation needed]
 It is a festival of peace and thanksgiving to the Almighty for the harvests. [citation needed]
Yaosang[edit]
Main article: Yaosang
Held in February or March,[62] Yaosang is one of the biggest festivals of Manipur.
Khuado Pawi[edit]
Khuado Pawi is the harvest festival of the Tedim people who were recognised
as Sukte and Zomi in India and Myanmar respectively. The word Pawi means festival in Tedim
Zomi language. It is celebrated every year in the month of September–October after harvesting is
done.[63][63][64]
Cheiraoba is the celebration of new year during the Spring season. People feast (top), then climb up a hill
together later in the day to signify overcoming hurdles and reaching new heights in the new year. [citation needed]

Gaan-Ngai[edit]
Gaan-Ngai is the greatest festival of the Zeliangrong people. It is a five-day festival and is usually
performed on the 13th day of the Meetei month of Wakching as per the Meetei calendar of
the lunar year.[citation needed]

Media[edit]
Film[edit]
Movie theatres were first introduced in Manipur in 1920. The first theatres in the state were
established in Imphal after the First World War.[citation needed]
Filmmaking in Manipur was pioneered by Shree Govindajee Film Company (SGFC) founded
between 1946 and 1947.[citation needed] Mainu Pemcha (1948) was the first locally produced film. [citation
needed]

The first feature-length film, Matam-Gi Manipur, was screened 9 April 1972 at three Manipuri
theatres.[citation needed]
With the establishment of the Film Society in 1966, Imphal Cine Club in 1979, and the Manipur
Film Development Council (MFDC) in 1980, Manipuri cinema achieved national and international
attention.[citation needed]

Notable people[edit]

Mary Kom, Indian boxer from Manipur - India

 Mary Kom
 Armstrong Pame

See also[edit]
 Human rights abuses in Manipur
 Tourism in North East India
 Manipuri dance
 Manipuri cuisine