The Manipur University Working Women’s Association (MUWWA) observed the 86th Nupi Lan Ningsing Numit on December 15 at the Women’s Facility Centre of Manipur University.
The event was attended by Prof. N. Lokendra Singh, Vice-Chancellor of Manipur University, as chief guest, while Prof. Sumitra Phanjoubam, Dean of the School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences, was present as guest of honour. The programme was presided over by Prof. Memcha Loitongbam, President of MUWWA and Dean of the School of Social Sciences.
Nupi Lan Ningsing Numit commemorates Nupi Lan, or the “Women’s War,” a historic movement led by Manipuri women against British colonial policies. The uprisings in 1904 and 1939 protested forced labour and exploitative rice export policies that caused widespread hardship and food shortages. The day honours the courage and leadership of Manipuri women in shaping the state’s social and political history.
Speaking at the event, Prof. Lokendra Singh highlighted the historic role of Manipuri women as peace-builders and mediators. He described MUWWA as the “conscience keeper” of the university and acknowledged the strong presence of women in administrative and academic leadership roles. He also noted that women make up nearly 51 per cent of the student body and referred to their prominence in Meitei mythology and literary traditions such as Numit Kappa.
Guest of honour Prof. Sumitra Phanjoubam paid tribute to the women who resisted British repression, saying Nupi Lan continues to remind society of the power of collective women’s voices. She also stressed the importance of women’s mental and physical well-being to enable them to contribute effectively to society.
In her presidential address, Prof. Memcha Loitongbam highlighted the continued relevance of Nupi Lan in contemporary Manipuri society.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. K. Sobita Devi, General Secretary of MUWWA, and was compered by Prof. Toijam Tampha Devi of the Department of Manipuri. Members of MUWWA, women research scholars, and students attended the event.