Asem Bhakta, Special Correspondent North East
Imphal:
The national calendar event of the 77th Army Day parade was held on 15th Jan 2025 at BEG centre, Pune, Maharashtra. The Chief of Army Staff, General Upendra Dwivedi, reviewed the smart parade. On the occasion of the 9th Veterans’ Day, he also presented the Prestigious “Veteran Achievers’ Award” for two retired Army Officers from Manipur. These two awardees have been selected for their tireless efforts & valuable contribution to Nation building, service to their States & Society, besides bridging the communities in times of calamity. They are the sole recipient from North East India, of this newly established prestigious national level award. They are – Lt Col L. MANONGBA (Retd), of 11 Gorkha Rifles. He has made silent but remarkable efforts in reaching out to the Ex Servicemen of the state, specially those residing in the remotest corners of hill & valley of the state. He has helped many Ex Servicemen families to avail financial aids & guidance from the Army. The “Wings of Hope7 Charitable Trust”, (www.thewingsofhope.in) captained by him & supported by a highly committed team, has been giving continuous financial support for the year long education to 60 orphan students. The Trust has embarked successfully on alternative Livelihood support to many widows. These orphans & widows are all unfortunate victims of the recent clashes in Manipur. – Subedar Major (Honorary Lieutenant) P. PIJU MAO (Retd), of 2nd Naga Regiment. He has been instrumental in establishing a private basic pre recruitment training facility in the lovely Misty Hills of Makhan Village, Senapati District.(YUEI – Youth Upliftment & Empowerment Institute). With his tireless efforts, almost 100 young boys have passed recruitment tests & joined the Indian Army as Agni Veers & many joined the CAPF vacancies. Almost 300 boys have been trained successfully at bare minimum affordable costs. He continues with this Selfless service to the youth of the state. Lt. P. Piju Mao, is a 3rd generation soldier. The Wings of Hope Charitable Trust is a pan India registered body. It is a Non-religious, apolitical, not-for-profit organisation. The idea of “Wings of Hope Charitable Trust” was born in Sep 2023 (amidst the current crisis) with a conscious decision to reach out and help those in our society who need a helping hand. Our Vision is – To ameliorate & improve the lives of any citizen of India, who have become IDPs (Internally Displaced People), Children, Orphans & Widows affected by any natural disasters, conflicts & ethnic or communal clashes.
