Imphal : The Manipur Press Club on January 6 celebrated its 51st foundation day, marking over five decades of service to journalism in the state and paying tribute to journalists who continue to report under challenging circumstances.

The programme began with senior journalists offering floral tributes at the Memorial Pillar within the Press Club complex to honour departed members of the fraternity. During the event, veteran journalists who played key roles in establishing and sustaining the institution were felicitated for their contributions.

MLA Yumnam Khemchand, the chief guest, underscored the vital role of media in a democratic society, highlighting that the contribution of journalists assumes greater significance in a conflict-affected state like Manipur. “Journalists in Manipur have continued to discharge their duties with dedication and sacrifice. The public must support and encourage them for the services they render under challenging circumstances,” he said.

Speaking on the ongoing ethnic and political unrest in the state, Khemchand called for continued peace-building efforts by all sections of society. “Initiatives aimed at fostering peace should be encouraged rather than undermined, as people from all communities continue to bear the brunt of prolonged conflict,” he added.

The event was attended by MLAs Kh Ibomcha and Sapam Kunjakeshor, Director of Information and Public Relations Ngamgom Uttam, as well as executive members of the All Manipur Working Journalists Union and the Editors’ Guild of Manipur, among others.

The 51st anniversary celebration served as both a recognition of the Press Club’s enduring role in Manipur’s journalistic landscape and a reminder of the resilience of media professionals working amid ongoing unrest.