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Report: 67,000 Displaced by Violence in Manipur


1. Conflict in South Asia caused 69,000 displacements in 2023, with Manipur at 67,000.
2. The Geneva-based IDMC report highlights the highest displacement numbers in India since 2018.
3. Manipur’s situation underscores the significant impact of conflict and violence in the region.


Imphal, May 15: In 2023, conflict and violence in South Asia caused 69,000 displacements, with Manipur alone accounting for 67,000, as per a report by the Geneva-based Internal Displacement Monitoring Centre (IDMC).

This marks the highest number of displacements triggered by conflict and violence in India since 2018.

The triggering event was a ‘Tribal Solidarity March’ held on May 3, 2023, in Manipur’s hill districts, protesting the Meitei community’s demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status.

Ethnic clashes between the Meitei and Kuki communities ensued, resulting in over 200 casualties.

The Manipur High Court’s call in March of the preceding year for recommending the recognition of the Meitei community as a “scheduled tribe” faced opposition from other local scheduled tribes, particularly the Kukis, citing concerns over marginalization.


Also Read: Arunachal: First Sighting of Rare Giant Shrike in Tawang

Additionally, underlying land disputes exacerbated tensions.

Violent protests erupted in Churachandpur district on May 3, spreading to Imphal East, Imphal West, Bishnupur, Tengnupal, and Kangpokipi districts, leading to approximately 67,000 displacements, as stated in the report.

While the majority of displacements occurred within Manipur, nearly one-fifth were to the neighboring state of Mizoram, with smaller numbers to Nagaland and Assam.

As violence escalated, the central government implemented curfews, and internet shutdowns, and deployed security forces to restore order.

Arunachal: First Sighting of Rare Giant Shrike in Tawang


1. Mumbai physiotherapist Kalyan Kapdi identifies a rare giant shrike in Tawang, the first sighting in India.
2. A giant shrike was spotted during a family holiday to Bumla Pass and Sangetsar Lake in late March.
3. Despite challenges, Kapdi captured clear photos of the bird flying near the Chinese border.


Tawang, May 15: In a groundbreaking discovery, Mumbai-based physiotherapist Kalyan Kapdi identified a rare giant shrike bird species in the Tawang district, marking the first recorded sighting of this species in India.

Kapdi spotted the giant shrike during a family holiday to Bumla Pass and Sangetsar Lake in late March.

Despite the narrow roads and heavy military presence near the Chinese border, Kapdi managed to capture clear photographs of the bird as it flew alongside their vehicle.


Also Read: MSME Development Forum, West Bengal Inaugurates Kolkata Office

Initially resembling the great gray shrike, common in India, Kapdi’s identification was later confirmed as the giant shrike, previously only found in China.

After sharing her findings with birder Salehin Md Habib from Kolkata, who consulted with Sandeep Biswas, it was confirmed that the bird was indeed a giant shrike, marking its first recorded presence in India.

Kapdi expressed her astonishment at the discovery, emphasizing her dedication to birdwatching despite her profession as a physiotherapist.

The sighting has generated excitement within the birdwatching community, highlighting the importance of continued exploration and documentation of bird species in the region.

This unprecedented discovery enriches India’s avian records and encourages birdwatchers to remain vigilant for other rare species in the country’s diverse habitats.

MSME Development Forum, West Bengal Inaugurates Kolkata Office


1. The MSME Development Forum inaugurates the Kolkata office on May 14, 2024.
2. Vivek Gupta, CMD of Sanmarg, attends as chief guest.
3. Rajnish Goenka and PC Khurana honored guests at the MSME Growth Conclave.


Kolkata, May 15: The MSME Development Forum inaugurated its office in Kolkata, West Bengal, on May 14, 2024. Vivek Gupta, CMD, Sanmarg, was the chief guest at the event.

Rajnish Goenka, Founder Chairman of MSME Development Forum, and PC Khurana, Zonal Head of the Central Bank of India, were the guests of honor at the MSME Growth Conclave.

The event featured a panel discussion, a book launch, and an open networking session. Eminent speakers included Sanjib Sanghi, Chairman of EIRC, ICAI; Mamta Binani, President of MSME DF West Bengal; Vinay Jajodia, Associate at GYR Capital Advisors; Dipak H Agarwal, Founder of Love Desi, Vocal for Local; and CA Rajiv Harlalka, CEO of Next Gen Business Support Services.


Also Read: Assam: Former Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi Receives UKILP Lifetime Achievement Award 2024

West Bengal occupies an important position in the country In phrases of improvement of micro, small, and medium enterprises.

Strategic tasks of the State Government taken up within the previous few years for promoting and boom of MSMEs have resulted in astonishing growth of MSMEs in the State in terms of investment, employment, and export.

Several MSMEs and people hired in the zone in the State, in formal and informal segments are one of the maxima within the country.

Apart from the development of business estates/parks using the West Bengal Small Industries Development Corporation (WBSIDC), the Department is likewise encouraging non-public entities to install zone precise and multi-product parks/ mega clusters with lively authorities support.

New Species of Damselflies Discovered in Northeast by Researchers


1. Damselflies captivate with elegance and vibrant hues, enchanting observers with graceful flight.
2. Their slender bodies and intricately patterned wings adorn landscapes with dazzling colors.
3. Colors range from blues and greens to earthy browns, adding beauty to their delicate appearance.


Guwahati, May 15: Damselflies, celebrated for their elegance and vibrant hues, have long enchanted observers with their graceful flight and delicate appearance.

These exquisite creatures, with their slender bodies and intricately patterned wings, adorn the landscapes they inhabit with a spectrum of colors, ranging from dazzling blues and greens to earthy browns.

In a remarkable discovery, researchers from various institutions have identified a new species of damselflies in the Northeast region, aptly named ‘Shade-damselflies’.

These damselflies are characterized by their elongated forms and preference for dimly lit forested areas. The discovery came about during extensive surveys of forests in the Northeast over the past decade.

Adding to the excitement, researchers have recently unearthed two additional species of damselflies in the states of Meghalaya and Arunachal Pradesh.


Also Read: Assam: Former Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi Receives UKILP Lifetime Achievement Award 2024

One of these species was previously known only from Bhutan, marking a significant expansion of its known distribution range into India.

Spearheaded by Dr. Krushnamegh Kunte, the research team includes Shantanu Joshi, Dr. Dattaprasad Sawant, Ujwala Pawar, and Vivek Sarkar.

The identification of these new species presented a unique challenge to the researchers, requiring them to carefully differentiate them from existing species.

To aid in this endeavour, the team collaborated with museums to obtain images that would assist in distinguishing the newly discovered damselflies from their counterparts.

This groundbreaking discovery sheds light on the rich biodiversity of the Northeast region and underscores the importance of continued research and conservation efforts to protect these delicate ecosystems.

The identification of new species not only adds to our understanding of the intricate web of life but also highlights the need for sustained vigilance in safeguarding these natural treasures for future generations to appreciate and cherish.

Assam: Former Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi Receives UKILP Lifetime Achievement Award 2024


1. Former Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi receives the UKILP Lifetime Achievement Award 2024.
2. Recognition celebrates his substantial contributions to the legal profession.
3. Award acknowledges his service in both public and private sectors.


Guwahati, May 15: Former Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi has been selected as the recipient of the prestigious “UKILP Lifetime Achievement Award – 2024” by the UK-India Legal Partnership (UKILP).

This esteemed recognition celebrates his extensive service and significant contributions to the legal profession, spanning both public and private sectors.

The award ceremony is scheduled to be held on May 31, 2024, at the House of Lords, Palace of Westminster, London, during the UKILP Annual Dinner and Awards Ceremony.

Distinguished figures from the legal community, including the President of the Law Society of England & Wales, the President of the Bar Council of England and Wales, eminent counsels, judges, Members of the House of Lords & House of Commons, university representatives, and key stakeholders from leading law firms engaged in India, will grace the event with their presence.


Also Read: Arunachal: NSCN (IM) Militant Apprehended in Changlang District

Justice Gogoi, renowned for his transformative contributions to the Indian legal system, is being honored for his outstanding achievements and exemplary leadership within the legal fraternity.

His legacy has not only influenced the legal landscape in India but has also served as a source of inspiration globally.

Ajit Mishra, Chairman of the UKILP, conveyed his heartfelt congratulations to Justice Gogoi, emphasizing the profound impact of his endeavors on the realm of law and society.

Mishra extended a warm invitation to Justice Gogoi to attend the ceremony and accept the award in person, acknowledging the honor his presence would bestow upon the event.

The selection of Justice Gogoi for the UKILP Lifetime Achievement Award underscores the enduring legacy of his illustrious career and his unwavering commitment to the legal profession.

It commemorates his remarkable influence on the global legal community, affirming his stature as a beacon of excellence in the field of law.

Arunachal: NSCN (IM) Militant Apprehended in Changlang District


1. Security forces successfully apprehended an NSCN (IM) militant near Laktong in Changlang district.
2. A joint operation, involving personnel from the 31 Assam Rifles and state police, was launched.
3. The operation was based on credible intelligence inputs and aimed at ensuring public safety.


Itanagar, May 15: In a well-coordinated operation, security forces have successfully apprehended a militant associated with NSCN (IM) from the vicinity of Laktong in Changlang district.

Acting on credible intelligence inputs, a joint operation was launched by a combined team comprising personnel from the 31 Assam Rifles and state police in the general area of Laktong.

The diligent efforts of the security forces led to the apprehension of the militant, who has been identified as self-styled Sergeant Wangmun Khimhun. Khimhun hails from Yanman village in Khimyong, Changlang district.

The captured militant is known to be an active member of the NSCN (IM) outfit, a notorious insurgent group operating in the region.

Following his arrest, he was handed over to the Changlang police station for further interrogation and subsequent legal proceedings.

This successful operation represents a significant breakthrough in the ongoing efforts to maintain peace and security in the region.


Also Read: Manipur MLA Urges CM Biren Singh to Address Rising Illegal Immigrant Numbers and Advocate for Deportation

It highlights the efficacy of collaborative efforts between various security agencies in combating insurgent activities and ensuring the safety of the local populace.

By swiftly apprehending the militant, security forces have demonstrated their commitment to thwarting threats posed by insurgent groups and upholding law and order in Arunachal Pradesh.

This development underscores the importance of continued vigilance and proactive measures in safeguarding the region against external threats.

Manipur MLA Urges CM Biren Singh to Address Rising Illegal Immigrant Numbers and Advocate for Deportation


1. Manipur MLA Leishiyo Keishing has raised serious concerns about the increasing number of illegal immigrants from Myanmar in the Kamjong district.
2. He has appealed to Chief Minister N Biren Singh to take immediate action against this rising influx.
3. Keishing stresses the urgent need to address the situation to protect local residents and manage the immigrant population effectively.


Imphal, May 15: Manipur MLA Leishiyo Keishing has raised serious concerns about the increasing number of illegal immigrants from Myanmar in the Kamjong district.

In light of this issue, he has appealed to Chief Minister N Biren Singh to take immediate action against the rising influx of these immigrants into the state.

Keishing has suggested two possible courses of action: either deporting the immigrants back to their native country or providing them with proper shelter under stringent supervision.

According to him, the influx of immigrants is threatening to outnumber the local residents, causing significant fear and unrest among the population.

In a letter addressed to the Chief Minister, Keishing, who represents the Phungyar Assembly Constituency, detailed the ongoing political crisis in Myanmar that has led to a continuous influx of illegal immigrants from the neighboring country since November 2023.

The letter, written on May 9, highlighted that the number of immigrants has now exceeded 5800, with the Kamjong district administration having captured the biometrics of 5173 individuals.

The MLA expressed concern that the number of immigrants residing in various shelter homes has now outnumbered the local residents.

Specifically, he noted that there are 1591 immigrants at Phaikoh, 661 at Shangkalok/Khenroram/H Thana, 356 at Skippe, 595 at Pilong, 414 at Aloyo and Choro, 512 at Wanglee, 971 at Namlee, and 357 at K Ashang Khullen Aze.

These shelter homes, established under the supervision of the State Government, provide basic necessities such as food, water, power supply, roofing, and other essential commodities.

Despite these provisions, Keishing reported that many unfortunate incidents have occurred, where local residents were beaten up over disputes related to daily wages and domestic issues.


Also Read: ECI Requests Report on Booth Capturing and Vandalism in Three Arunachal Constituencies

These situations have proven difficult for local law enforcement agencies to manage due to the limited number of police personnel stationed in the border area.

Keishing also pointed out that local customary laws are ineffective in controlling or binding the immigrants due to their foreign practices and beliefs.

There have been incidents of killings and kidnappings of local residents by the immigrants, but apprehending the culprits has been challenging as they often abscond and cross the border, beyond the reach of both customary and Indian law.

The MLA urged Chief Minister N Biren Singh to take necessary steps to deport the refugees to their native country or find a suitable place to shelter them under strict supervision.

He cautioned against granting Indian citizenship to these refugees, citing historical precedents from 1968, and emphasized the need to avoid repeating history that could lead to future unrest or crisis.

Additionally, Keishing called for the strengthening of armed police presence in the border area to enhance security and control.

MLA Leishiyo Keishing’s letter underscores the urgent need for the state government to address the challenges posed by the rising number of illegal immigrants in the Kamjong district, ensuring both the safety of local residents and the proper management of refugee populations.

ECI Requests Report on Booth Capturing and Vandalism in Three Arunachal Constituencies


1. The ECI has requested a detailed report on booth capturing and EVM vandalization in Arunachal Pradesh.
2. Complaints were lodged by the NPP, the Arunachal Democratic Party (ADP), and an independent candidate’s agent.
3. Incidents occurred in three assembly constituencies during the recent simultaneous elections.


Itanagar, May 14: The Election Commission of India (ECI) has called for a detailed report from the Arunachal Pradesh Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) concerning incidents of booth capturing, vandalization of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), and other election-related violence in three assembly constituencies during the recent simultaneous elections in the state.

In a formal communication to the CEO, the ECI noted that multiple complaints had been lodged by various political entities, including the National People’s Party (NPP), the Arunachal Democratic Party (ADP), and an independent candidate’s election agent.

These complaints highlight serious allegations of poll violence, booth capturing, EVM vandalization, and voter intimidation across polling stations in Seppa West, Likabali, and Nari-Koyu assembly constituencies.

The complainants have requested the ECI to conduct fresh polling at the affected stations.

Jumnya Dini, the election agent for an independent candidate in the Likabali assembly constituency, submitted a complaint to the ECI on May 5.

Dini alleged that bogus voting occurred through booth capturing at the 6-Tatamari, 15-Tango, and 13-Sibe polling stations in the Likabali constituency and demanded that fresh polling be conducted at these locations.

Similarly, Tani Loffa, the NPP candidate for the Seppa West constituency, presented a case to the ECI calling for the results from certain polling stations to be declared null and void or excluded from the final count.

The specific polling stations in question are 11/25-Lumdung, 11/26 Pipokoro, 11/17-Watte, 11/7-Silla, and 11/19-Neking. Loffa also filed a complaint against the election observer for East Kameng district, accusing them of inaction regarding alleged vote capturing, poll violence, and EVM vandalization at the 11/7-Silla polling station.

Additionally, the ADP lodged a complaint on May 2, seeking a re-poll at the 6-Kakki, 7-Sipu, 11-Loglu, 14-Tabiripu, and 21-Potte polling stations within the 36th Nari-Koyu assembly constituency.

Alternatively, they have requested the nullification of the EVM vote counts from these stations.

These reported incidents have raised serious concerns about the integrity of the electoral process in these regions.


Also Read: Sikkim’s Transport Department Plans AI-Powered Traffic Management System

The ECI’s request for a factual report underscores the importance of addressing these allegations thoroughly to maintain public confidence in the electoral system.

The response from the CEO will likely play a crucial role in determining the next steps, which may include conducting fresh polls or annulling the results from the disputed polling stations.

The swift action by the ECI in seeking this report reflects its commitment to ensuring free and fair elections.

As the investigation proceeds, stakeholders will be keenly observing how the electoral body handles these serious allegations to uphold the principles of democracy and transparency in Arunachal Pradesh.

Sikkim’s Transport Department Plans AI-Powered Traffic Management System


1. AI-driven Traffic Management System to revolutionize road safety measures.
2. Implementation is slated to commence on May 25, 2024, ushering in a new era of traffic control.
3. Advanced AI algorithms to automate document verification and detect traffic violations seamlessly.


Gangtok, May 14: The Transport Department is gearing up to introduce an Artificial Intelligence (AI)-driven Traffic Management System, marking a significant leap in modernizing traffic control measures.

Scheduled for implementation starting May 25, 2024, the AI traffic management system represents a cutting-edge approach to enhancing road safety and compliance.

Harnessing the power of advanced AI algorithms, the new system will revolutionize document verification processes.

It will automatically scrutinize key documents such as Insurance, Tax, Fitness, Pollution Under Control (PUC), and Permit, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.


Also Read: Report: ‘ModiNomics’ generates 51.40 crore person-years between 2014-24, driving significant economic activity

Additionally, it will actively identify traffic violations, including speeding, signal jumping, and improper lane usage, and issue e-challans accordingly, aligning with the provisions of the CMV Act 1980.

Endorsed by the Competent Authority, the new system is poised to become operational across Sikkim from May 25, 2024, signaling a concerted effort towards leveraging technology for safer and more efficient traffic management.

In light of these developments, all vehicle owners, including those of government vehicles, are urged to ensure the currency and accuracy of their documentation.

Any concerns or discrepancies related to the issuance of e-challans can be promptly addressed by contacting the respective Superintendent of Police (SP) or Regional Transport Officer (RTO) of the district.

Report: ‘ModiNomics’ generates 51.40 crore person-years between 2014-24, driving significant economic activity


1. SKOCH Group’s report highlights ‘ModiNomics’ impact on employment since 2014, averaging 5.14 crore person-years annually.
2. Titled “Employment Generative Impact of ModiNomics: The Paradigm Shifts,” it’s the fifth report in the series.
3. Analysis includes credit-led and government-led interventions, emphasizing micro-loans’ effectiveness in employment generation.


New Delhi, May 14: The SKOCH Group’s report released in New Delhi underscores the substantial impact of ‘ModiNomics’ on employment generation, revealing an average of 5.14 crore person-years of employment annually since 2014.

Titled “Employment Generative Impact of ModiNomics: The Paradigm Shifts,” this report is the fifth installment in the “Outcomes of ModiNomics 2014-24: A Report Card” series. It meticulously analyzes both credit-led and government-led interventions during this timeframe.

According to Sameer Kochhar, Chairman of the SKOCH Group and author of the report, credit-led interventions have contributed an average of 3.16 crore employment opportunities per year, while government-led initiatives have added 1.98 crore employment opportunities annually.

The report’s insights are derived from project-level findings and field research, offering valuable insights into the employment-generative impact of structural credit and government schemes.


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One of the key findings of the study is the dispelling of the myth surrounding the effectiveness of small amounts of credit in generating employment.

The report emphasizes the efficacy of micro-loans in creating sustainable and steady employment opportunities, challenging conventional notions.

Kochhar commented, “The report provides research-based evidence spread over several years on how credit-led employment and government schemes-led employment have both significantly added to employment since 2014.”

SKOCH has long been an advocate of credit-led employment generation, particularly in the realm of financial inclusion.

Kochhar reiterated the importance of credit-linked livelihoods and highlighted the SKOCH Model of Inclusive Growth, which emphasizes the necessity of micro-products, including credit, insurance, and pensions.

Additionally, the report presents case studies showcasing the positive impact of micro-loans on employment generation. Field visits to borrowers across four states revealed that, on average, each loan results in 6.6 direct employment opportunities.

Furthermore, the study evaluates the employment generated by 12 central schemes implemented between 2014-24, including MGNREGA, PMGSY, PMAY-G, among others.

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