Deputy Chief Minister Losii Dikho inaugurated the newly constructed Tribal Market at Mayophung village in Ukhrul district on Thursday, calling it a boost to local livelihoods and self-reliance.
The market, located along National Highway 202 (Imphal–Ukhrul road), was built by the Nashira Area People’s Organisation (NAPO) with funding from the 4th State Finance Commission through the Autonomous District Council (ADC), Ukhrul. NAPO organised the inauguration function, with Dikho attending as chief guest.
Addressing the gathering, Dikho said the market would create fresh economic opportunities for farmers in the area and strengthen their livelihoods.
He noted that its location on the national highway would make it easily accessible not only to residents of Mayophung but also to travellers from Imphal and other parts of the state, enabling them to buy local produce.
He stressed that the facility would help boost local production and contribute to making Manipur more self-reliant. The deputy chief minister also assured that the State Environment Department would extend necessary assistance for the beautification of the market and its surroundings.
During the programme, NAPO representatives submitted a memorandum to Dikho seeking construction of a new shed for Ava (New) Tribal Market, a public sanitation facility and a borewell at the NAPO headquarters in Mayophung. Dikho assured them of necessary support. Members of the All Foothills Tribal Auto Association, Yaingangpokpi, Ukhrul district, also submitted a memorandum to the deputy chief minister.
MLAs Khashim Vashum (45-Chingai ST), Leishiyo Keishing (43-Phungyar ST) and Ram Muivah (44-Ukhrul ST), along with NAPO convenor Ngaranmi Kasar and Rev Samuel Zimk, pastor of Ngarumphung Baptist Church, were among those present.
