Denominational Migration - 10.10.10

The 10.10.10 event of KBC (No.1) has not come as a big surprise to many of us. As this was already written on the walls. (walls - local newspapers, kukiforum, etc.). This is what I would like to christen as the "denominational migration" - a rare characteristics of Christianity among the Kukis.

10.10.10 is rather the result of what was churning and storming within KBC in last few months/years. In military parlance this was nothing short of a mutiny though liberationists will view this as victory/liberation. Bottomline is change; change is taking place in our Churches as well and if we go by history, no force ever withstood the brute force of change.

The recent most denominational migration occurred early this year within the fold of ECA when ECA Tuinom unanimously embraced KCC. Enabling factors and forces for this one probably has some resemblances with that of 10.10.10. This may interest some of our future doctorates as a researchable thesis.

Though some yardsticks behind or ahead of the larger society, Kuki community today is experiencing change at the grassroots. This permeates religion, tradition and relations within and around us.

At the Christianity front the Kuki Worship Service (KWS) has already piloted a potential alternative as a sustainable model for a community affected by violent conflicts, poverty stricken population less than 10 lac grappling to overcome internal divides and differences that threatens our identity and any effort of nation-building.

Probably, time is ripe to seriously consider initiating KWSs in our own backyards -Manipur, Assam and Nagaland.

KWS (Guwahati) CHURCH DEDICATED

Oct 3 (Sunday): Rev.Dino L TouthangChairman, AIKWSCC dedicated the beautiful KWS Church at Chachal, VIP Road in the august presence of leaders and representatives of KSWs, local Churches, members and other invitees.

Established on the 4th of January, 1998, KWS(G), a non-denominational Fellowship initiated by Kuki Students Organisation Guwahati, grew from strength to strength by the grace of God. In 12 years time, the membership has grown from 120 in 1998 to 400 in 2010, and 4(Four) missionaries are being sponsored by the Church as on date. The Church Building construction which started with the turn of the new millennium in 2000, received continuous outpouring of contributions and prayer support from various quarters and God’s amazing work unveiled magnificently for all of us to rejoice and celebrate on the 3rd of Oct., 2010, when the Church was rightly dedicated to the glory of God.

An election of a different kind in KSO history...

IMPHAL, Nov 18: The Kuki Students Organisation has elected Peter Holkhomang Mate and Lalrobul Pudaite as president and general secretary respectively for the students body for the term 2009-11 in its election held today at the Kuki Inn Imphal.

A press release of the KSO said the election was participated by electorates from seven students organisations namely the Gangte Students Organisation, Mizo Zillai Pawl, Zillai, Zoumi Sangnaupang, KOREM Students Union, Hmar Students Association, Khangthah Zun Pawl, Thadou Kuki Students Organisation and KSO branches and blocks.

In an election of the students' body held today at Kuki Inn here, Jangkhomang Baite and Semhao Khongsai were also elected as the vice-president and finance secretary respectively.

The standing committee of the KSO has entrusted elected members of the students' body to appoint other vacant posts of the organisation within the end of this month.

The apex Kuki students' body was formed in 1963 with the motto, 'learn, unite, and march.' The election held today was the 28th general election of the students' body.

68 voters have cast their votes today.

A radical musing on some Root Causes, Ice Berg and Problem Tree of The Kuki Society; by Mangneo Lhungdim

A radical musing on some Root Causes, Ice Berg and Problem Tree of The Kuki Society; by Mangneo Lhungdim

“I am delighted to read “Kuki Nampi Ekhehsuhnao” a very rarely discussed topic such as this has featured after a long time in the forum” Note: I wrote this small article in response to the discussion initiated by Mangboi Haokip on “KUKI NAMPI EKHEHSUHNAO..!!” on kukiforum

What Is Our Favorite past Time?
Politics has constantly topped the topics discussed in the kukiforum for last 1-2 years and while many of us are trigger-happy netters reacting instantly on issues of politics, of accusations, of counter-accusations and even stressing the discussions over personal trifle issues, but sadly whenever any discussion is initiated on socio-economic (poverty dynamics, village governance, NGOs, role of the Church, role of village chiefs, etc.) there are no takers.

With due respect to the sentiments of the forum members and the objectives guiding the forum founders; I would suggest we start addressing/discussing some of the common root causes of all the ‘problems’ we today live with. Experiences (history) tell us that many of our present problems are actually mere effects of the core or the tip of the iceberg. We should try understanding the “core” or the “iceberg” rather than struggling at the “effects/tips.”

Mangboi Haokip has started on the right note by listing/analyzing some of the causes - Corruption, lack of honest leaders, public mindset, and education. And mind you, this is not the entirety of the iceberg yet. If we are to construct a tree/iceberg using all the issues/problems afflicting our society as building blocs, ours will be no different from many counterparts in South Asia.

Be Grounded
My personal orientation is in redirecting all our efforts in identifying the micro-issues and thereby tackling them through micro level solutions and it does not take a Nobel laureate, social scientist/economist or a bigwig politician to do this. All it needs is the village women/men coming together in Self Help/Cooperative platforms to manage their local issues. There are handful of examples “success stories” in India and neighboring South Asian countries where communities have come out from the vicious cycle of abject poverty, conflicts/insurgency and, from all the forces Mangboi Haokip and Jesse John mentioned.

Once we are able to manage our micro level problems, most of the larger issues will find appropriate solutions through a spiraling effect. Well, few contentious macro issues such as the Kuki identity, Kuki autonomy or unification, re-unification do not really affect immediately the rozi roti (daily bread) of the common Kuki householder, while the family has to survive every single day on these basic needs.

Whose Issues and Whose Priority?
What issues/needs/aspirations would top if a common Kuki householder was asked to rank his priorities today? The householder who mortgaged his only livelihood (pension book, plot of land) away to the money lender, the widows of Naga-Kuki/Paite-Kuki conflict whose entire struggle is to feed her virtually-orphaned kids, the faceless Eimi boys in various Manipuri Hotels serving you mira mirch (Vegetarian dishes), the marginal Eimi farmer whose harvest is destroyed by Mautam, the thousands of landless Kukis who still languish under the dictates of whimsical hereditary ‘village chiefs’, the above average child in every family whose only dream is to study in a good college away from the killing field, etc….

All that the majority Kuki populace would list will be an overwhelmed BASIC NEEDS. And that’s it!

DFID’s paper on “Ending Poverty in India” categories the country into three Indias: The Global India, the Developing India and Poorest India. (http://www.dfid.gov.uk/consultations/three-indias.pdf) Whether one likes it served hot or cold, the Kuki society today is categorized into these similar classes in which more than 90 % population would fall under the third category. What is more appalling unfortunately is that few privileged Kukis have become so insensitive to the grassroots issues of Kuki village and are blatantly hogging the limelight with perceived ‘Kuki Issues/problems’ that do not touch-base with the priorities of the majority.

At the Church’s front
The Church in Kuki society has always stood behind the society during thick and thin and more than once rose to the occasions even in situations where civil administration, politicians, and social scientists failed miserably to dispense their legal duties. The first Theology College, the first Christian hospital, (KCC) the first state level development NGO, the first Peacebuilding institute (KBC), and so on and so forth…. though we can further improve by a thousand yard on this front. We may have a number rather too many denominations for a below 8 lakhs population in which most of the smaller denominations are overshadowed by bigger biggies like the KCC, KBC, ECA, TBA etc.

In other local churches like the Presbytery, Roman Catholic, Salvation Army, Seventh Day Adventists etc., social services /community development is given equal importance to that of evangelism. As such, through their social development departments these congregations create community assets, livelihoods, responds to humanitarian relief, health, education, all the way winning though both hearts and bodies.

All is not lost; but nothing is there
Yes, all is not lost if we survived thus far. Many Kuki development initiatives have been put in place at the micro level innovative and clusters approach that are working steadily and stealthily in improving access, livelihoods, create models, and motivate communities as strongly as the strong current blowing against such initiatives. Mentionable leading grassroots workers are Pu Thangsei, Pu Lamkhomang, Pu Thongsei, Pu Sem Haokip, Pu Zamlal & Pu Jamhen, Pu Thenkhogin, Pu Paojalen, Sangamuon Inn mothers, and hundred more women and men The yeoman’s’ services contributed by the above persons through their various not-for-profit organizations deserve to be acknowledged by the larger society. They can be role models for the younger generation for a sustainable Kuki nation.

We are said to be inflicted with the Bihari delima, Bihar like the NE is notoriously famous for all the wrong reasons - daylight murder, violation of rule of law, goondagiri, caste wars, corruptions etc. and at the same time is the janma bhoomi (breeding ground) of the bestest of civil servants, diplomats, politicians, scientists, and freedom fighters. Similarly the Kukis, despite being a minority (with not even a single ‘Kuki district’) in Manipur, Assam, Nagaland, Tripura or even in Myanmar, Bangladesh has produced the largest civil servants, diplomats, police officers, central servicemen, doctors, engineers, nurses, researchers and pastors.

While the society has also produced a surprisingly silent tribe of ‘development professionals’ whose expertise and resources remained under utilized both human and financial and they includes Rev. Dino Touthang, Paul Touthang, Hethong Haokip, Thongmang Kipgen, Kim Kipgen, Jamkholal Lhungdim, and few more names including the author himself.

What is not there?
Coordination, willingness to leave aside personal ego and saying in unison: “let’s do it for the nation/society”
For further reading:• Two Myths that keep the world poor: http://www.awakenedwoman.com/shiva_poverty_myths.htm
• Mountains Common: changing space & status at community levels in Himalayas (ICIMOD) http://www.indiana.edu/~iascp/bali/papers/Jodha_Narpat.pdf
• The Asia & Pacific Forum on Poverty: http://www.adb.org/Documents/Presentations/Health/AP-Forum-on-Poverty-J-Hunt.pdf
• The Kuki People; By PS Haokip http://www.kukiforum.com/whatsnew/the_kuki_people_march2005.htm
• http://www.kukiforum.com/whatsnew/the_kuki_people_march2005.htm
• http://www.karunacenter.org/reports/indiadec05.pdf
• Stagnant Development in NE http://www.manipuronline.com/Features/May2003/stagnantdevelopment31_3.htm
• An Ethnic Audit of Selected Poverty Reduction Strategy http://www.ilo.org/dyn/declaris/DECLARATIONWEB.DOWNLOAD_BLOB?Var_DocumentID=5776
• PRI V/S Traditional Governance by Mangneo Lhungdim

Christianity under fire

I recently visited a new site www.christianaggression.org expecting some fresh testimonials but was rudely shocked to discover www.christianaggression.org is a well disguished attack on Christianity.

No background information of the webmaster or organisation is available which strongly suggests a case of a propaganda by some well organised Hindu fundamentalist group.

Though I personally find the articles (all negatives side of Chistianity) a very good points for introspection.

Read on and do check the website on your own risk...


What Aggression?

You are probably wondering what is the aggression caused by Christians in India. You may wonder how can a minority religion that is only 3% of the population cause aggression in a nation of over 1,000,000,000 people. In the press, the aggresion and "persecution" of Christians is often publicized. However it is never publicized how Christian Fundamentalists often incite this cycle of violence and aggression.

The root cause of Christian aggression in India is caused by the fact that Christianity believes that Jesus Christ is the only son of god. He is supposed to have been sent to earth to wash away the sins of the people, and so redeem them. Of course, this happens only to those who accept him as the only son of god. All the others do not get the benefit who do not have this shared belief will be burnt in hell for all eternity.

Christianity says that it has a unique path to salvation, and all the other paths are false. While there is supposed to be some modification in these views, the acceptance is that all the other paths may at most be second best. Therefore, it is better if people accept Christianity and not take a chance.

Christians believe that they have been commanded by Christ to go and “save” (convert) the people of this world. This is also supposed to give them special merit when it comes to the day of final judgment.

While there are many Christians who today do not believe in this exclusivity, there are a still large number of misguided Christians who still believe that in the exclusivity of Christianity and the concept of saving souls.

It is this misguided belief that causes breeds a hatred and intolerance for other religions. and from this hatred, these Christian Fundamentalists begin their aggression to convert. And often they will go to any means to convert even if it means violence.

This website seeks to educate the world about the atrocities that conversions bring and to bring this aggressive nature of Christianity to an end.

I am back from self exile

It has taken me some reviews and redesigning of the blog to come back again. I found the contents and issues discussed on my blog too far away from me and hence went for this change. I hope you like it.

Much water has flown down river Brahmaputra ever since I wrote my last blog. I am committed to catch up with lost grounds by posting some very interesting articles and writings. I have also moved on from CRS to IGSSS.

Cheers

What is so particularly black about 14th Sept

Please share your thoughts directly here!

The Spirit of Christ according to Swami Ranganathananda

The Spirit of Christ according to Swami Ranganathananda

Recently I was browsing through some books in a Gita Press Bhandar, which sells Hindu religious books. Surprisingly I noticed amidst them a booklet ‘The Christ we adore’ with a picture of Christ, written by a Hindu monk. It was originally the text of a special lecture given by Swami Ranganathananda, a former vice-president of Ramakrishna Mission, on their Christmas Eve meeting in 1954. Published by Advaita Ashrama, Kolkata, the booklet was in its eleventh edition.These days when religious fundamentalists fight against other religions, the revered swami teaches how we all can appreciate and learn from one another’s religion. “The reader will be struck by the depth of knowledge shown by the author and his fine perception of the inner subtleties of the teaching of Jesus which touch the chord of universal Truth present in every heart,” says the publisher. The teachings of Jesus Christ are viewed from the Vedanta background.Let me give here the substance of what Swami Ranganathananda says of Christ. At the outset the swami says: “We, in India, have learnt through our religion to look upon the great teachers with a heart open to the inspiration which they hold for all humanity. The approach of our people to the lives of all teachers has something refreshingly beautiful about it; it is hard for non- Hindus to understand how we professing a different religion, can open our hearts, with equal fervour, to receive the inspiration of this great Son of Man, Jesus.India’s approach to religion is experimental and not dogmatic. It is spirituality that India seeks in its religious quest and not a creed or a dogma. This is also the approach of Jesus Christ to religion. It is this approach that explains the spiritual hospitality of the Indian mind. This broad, all inclusive approach will be increasingly appreciated and accepted by the thinking people of the world in the coming years.“According to the swami, “We are familiar in our country with the idea that at the birth of divine personalities there is joyous cooperation of man and nature to welcome them: for it is an event heralding universal joy.” He quotes Narada Bhakti-Sutra, V.5: “Modante pitaro, nrtyanti devatah,sanatha ceyam bhurbhavati.” Very similar is the description of the birth of Christ as given in the four Gospels, he adds. We have enough indication, he says, to show that Jesus, very early in life, had become aware of the great purpose of his advent and set about it with a thoroughness that nothing could thwart. “He must have also spent long hours in silence and loneliness in the nearby mountains and communed with himself.”

KUKI ENTREPRENEURS IN GUWAHATI

This evening, Nengcha and I were successful in tracking down the much hyped "ELIZABETH All About Eve" the latest and fourth venture enterprises by Guwahati Kukis. Situated at the ever growing upmarket area of Beltola this speciality women garments showroom by Pui and Gary offers for the fashion-conscious citizens, latest designer women apparels, kids wears, latest gizmoz/Nikel, and some very innovative stickers.

With the launch of ELIZABETH, Kukis in Guwahati now can boast of four different enterprises (there are three general shops in Sachal VIP area).

Congrats to all the future Birlas and Tatas of Guwahati Kukis.

GUWAHATI TRIBALS AND SOME CRUCIAL SAFETY TIPS

GUWAHATI TRIBALS AND SOME CRUCIAL SAFETY TIPS
Mangneo Lhungdim®

There is an alarming increase of motivated crimes – robberies, robbery related physical assaults including rape, drugging cases in train and bus journeys, etc. The trend unmistakably suggests such crimes are being perpetuated against a particular ‘vulnerable’ target group of persons or communities. And the Chin-Kuki-Mizo groups perfectly come within this bracket.

The recent case where a pastor from Manipur was drugged early in the morning apparently by the rickshaw driver in connivance with the tea stall owner at Paltan Bazar, the two Kuki youth coming back from Diphu found unconscious at Guwahati railway station, the day-light gold snatching incidence of Beltola last Friday, the unfortunate and gory ambush at Dr. Niangngaihlians’ residence behind Down Town hospital, the lucky escape from near death of my cousin Hemkhomang Lhungdim (a lecturer with Changlang College AP) at Mariani Railways station, and many such more unknown/unreported cases every day.

On average 100-150 CHIKIM persons from the twin hills districts of Assam, Manipur, Nagaland and Mizoram commute to & from Guwahati for various reasons related to hospitalization, scholarship/study related business, religious/NGO duties, government duties, etc. around 25% are always first-timers and more than 85% do not speak/understand Assamese, Hindi or English. Around 15-20 % is with family or relative. (Sources: roughly estimated from Downtown Hospital, CBCNEI Guest House register)

There is also an increasing population of the above conglomerate residing in Guwahati rather as a push factor from the uncertainties of law & order situation in Manipur. The student-family population ratio in 1998-99 probably was 75:25 which, today has reversed virtually to the opposite. Guwahati is one major destination for similar migration involving other communities from different other parts of the country and across the border has not made the city a safer place to live in.

Vulnerability of adjusting to fast track metro life Guwahati:
Guwahati today as the fastest growing cities in South Asia is struggling to keep pace with changes that come along as collateral with metro-culture. While the so-called locals (read Assamese) would subtly resent the assimilation, the changing face of the city, the divides between Assamese and non-Assamese seem to have been exploited to the hilt by gangsters, goons and some small time criminals in the city by targeting the ‘non-Assamese speaking’ communities and particularly those hailing from Manipur, Nagaland and Mizoram.

Though law and order is the responsibility of the police a person/community needs to take all precaution in crime prevention by identifying vulnerable aspects and doing something about these vulnerabilities.

While not writing off the primary responsibility of an individual for his/her personal security/safety, the various students and welfare organizations need to come together on few common issues and challenges including on this occasion. No body may come with a ready-made solution to the issue but by sharing solidarity and concerns there are few advantages; first, it provides solace to the victim family/individual, secondly it is a show of strength to the would-be perpetuator/criminal and lastly, it provides all concern an opportunity to prevent similar crime committed against her/him.


SAFETY OF RAIL PASSENGERS

During the period January to September 2006 in comparison to the corresponding period of the previous year. According to entry No. 2 of the State List of the Constitution of India, ‘Police’ (including Railways and village Police), is a state subject. Registration of cases, their investigation and maintenance of law and order in Railway premises as well as on running trains are, therefore, the statutory responsibility of the State Police. The State Police have a separate wing called Government Railway Police (GRP) for dealing with all matters relating to law and order on the Railways. So, Railways have to depend largely on state police (GRP) for control of crime on Railways. Regular coordination meetings are being held by RPF and Railway officials with their counterparts in GRP and police of concerned states to highlight this problem and find out effective strategy to tackle the menace. To effectively supplement the efforts of the State Governments in controlling crime on the Railways, the Railway Protection Force (RPF) staff are being deployed to escort many trains and also on access control duties in the passenger area to augment the efforts of the State Governments. RPF has also been empowered to deal with minor offences affecting train operations such as alarm chain pulling, roof travel, touting, ticket less travel, unauthorized entry into coaches earmarked for ladies etc. (except sabotage related offences under Sections 150 to 152) with the amendment to the Railways Act, 1989 w.e.f. July 2004. During the year 2006, RPF have apprehended 49 offenders responsible for looting of passengers after drugging them and forwarded to the concerned GRP for further legal action.

The following preventive measures are also being taken to combat such menace: -

• Repeated announcement is made at Railway Stations to create awareness amongst the passengers not to take any food / drink / tea from unknown passengers.

• Wide publicity in the local and leading newspapers as well as TV is also being given.

• Signages in local language are being displayed in trains as well as on station platforms.

• Pamphlets are also being distributed among the passengers to create awareness.

• Close coordination with GRP and local police are being maintained to exchange information regarding criminals indulging in such act.

• Photographs of habitual offenders are pasted at Stations platforms in Rogue’s Gallery.

New Positions notesworthy

Helen Keivom elected Deputy Chair in NZ

Helen Keivom, second daughter of L. Keivom, IFS (Retd.) was elected Deputy Chair to the City Council (District) elections in New Zealand on October 17, 2007. Helen Keivom is not just the first Hmar woman (Zo hnathlak) to hold this rank but the first ever among Asian women. The Council and their decisions have a very high profile impact at the National level. There are 4 districts in New Zealand.

Lamhao Doungel is Dy. Supeperintendent of Police (DSP) HQR - Karbi Anglong, Assam

Much to the respite of the eimis of Singhason, Manja and Diphu areas affected by recurring conflicts and marginalisation in the volatile district of Karbi Anglong, Assam Gl. L. Doungel APS has taken over the very crucial posting as DSP (HQR) at Diphu since Sep 2007.

This blogger had the previlegde of being invited over for a sumptous dinner at the swanky DSP quarters at Diphu last week and was boggled by the no-nonsense Police Officer with a mission and vision. Pu L. Doungel is a brave, honest and committed police officer whose mere presence in the district is enough assurance for justice and protection for the marginalised poor citizens of KA district.

Barbarianism in Beltola

Barbarianism in Beltola

The unfortunate violence at Beltola (Guwahati) last Saturday has sent a tremor of shocks and disbelief to all of us in Guwahati. The atrocities meted out to the protesting tribal (adivasis) by a mad public in full daylight and under the very nose of security personnel have left me freezing numb. Never in my life have I seen such gross violation of humanity against the tribal, their women and young persons.

The gory incident took place so close to me (I stay at Beltola so are many tribal families) that shook my entire foundation of self respect, dignity, right to life and freedom of expression as a tribal and as a citizen of this great country.

What ever the immediate cause for the violence does not bother me more than the suspicious indifference attitude of the law keeper, administration that allowed the violence for more than 2 hours and silently watched tribal women and men being torn apart, abused, violated upon and butchered like they were not human. No excuse can justify the fact that the administration on Saturday miserably failed to protect its own citizens.

I still cannot digest that the vandalism ‘was a spontaneous violent reaction’ of the locals considering the timing, and execution of the 'reaction' as the protesting tribals were all cornered. The fleeing tribals were also intercepted even in adjoining areas of Betapara, 6th Mile and Khanapara gullies which suggests the entire reaction could have been pre-planned by anti-social elements.

The Government of Assam though belated has eventually acted by transferring the SSP and DC and also brought the individual goons who mercilessly stripped a tribal girl to book. The inquiry instituted by the Government is expected to pint point the action and inactions of the concerned authorities and to recommend exemplary punitive legal action against all the culprits.

The Government has also begun the healing process by announcing various ‘plans and decisions’ to address the long-pending demand of the Adivasi communities of Assam.

Lets all join hands together to condemn the vandalism and remind the administration of its primary function: protection of lives and properties of citizens. Saturday, it was the helpless Adivasi brethren and unless a strong message is sent across, it could be anybody next.

Mangneo Lhungdim
26th Nov 07

Are We Vision led or activity led?

Are We (KSO) Vision led or Activity led?
Mangneo Lhungdim, Advisor KSO (G)
E-mail him at: mlhungdim@gmail.com

Dear leader, vision is it: without vision the people perish. A vision is a future reality seen now. It is a portrait of a future that grabs. Are you a leader--a CEO? Then you aren't appointed simply to maintain the status quo and ensure the wind blows on as usual. You are to dream, dare and do.- Kumuyi, William F. “Goliah Business Knowledge on Demand”.


Many of the surviving institutions that are in our prized possession today are largely white elephants[1] and we often struggle to define these elephants no better than the famous five blind men. In the modern world, those who do not go forward fast enough go backwards. The Kuki Students’ Organisation is at a standstill, looking around, debating and thus going backwards.

Without vision, we are blind – and without a vision, an organization is liable to be stumbling around, lost in the blizzard. As Joel Barker suggested in his work on The Power of Vision, “Vision without action is a dream. Action without vision is simply passing the time. Action with Vision is making a positive difference.”

Use your vision to focus
Why does our organization exist? What business are we in? What values will guide us?
Great wealth, a roaring enterprise, a man on the moon, brother and sisterhood among the races of the globe... what is your organization's vision? "What will success look like?" In trying to answer these questions, one would rather begin with an individual introspection. Why am I here in Guwahati? Of course, each one of us have set a target or two or, too many for that matter. How many years do I give myself to achieve or attain it/them? And for the simple reason that KSO (G) and/or the society are a construct of individuals (including you and me) with different aims/targets, allotted timeframes and resources at his/her disposal, we are not expected to advance the KSO’s interest at the personal cost or loss.

Echoing a recent Sunday message of Pastor Marak, A vision statement should be realistic, focused and credible, well articulated and easily understood, appropriate, ambitious, and responsive to change. It should orient the KSOs’ energies and serve as a guide to action. It should be consistent with the organization's values. In short, a vision should challenge and inspire the group and every member to achieve its mission. African proverbs – “a monkey who tried to get three mangoes from different branches in a tree at the same time fell on its back”.

Students with Vision
In an amazing longitudinal study on goal setting, Yale University surveyed the graduating class of 1953 on commencement day, to determine if they had written goals for what they wanted their lives to become. Only three percent had such a vision. In 1973, the surviving members of the class of 1953 were surveyed again. The three percent who had a vision for what they wished their lives would become had accumulated greater wealth than the other 97 percent combined.
This tells us that without a vision, success is impossible. We cannot pretend that it is possible to take a second step without taking the first or to implement the vision without efficient organisation.

The power of organisational vision
Championing a clear, shared vision of where we as a group or organisation are going has always been seen as a key part of the leader’s role. In fact, the vision might be seen as the leader’s statement of their leadership goals – where is it that I am leading us to? This visionary role is never more important than in the increasingly complex and chaotic business environment we live in today.

Organisationally, research indicates that a clear vision that aligns strategic direction does indeed improve a number of performance measures, with those companies that are powered by vision outperforming the market by up to 15 times. We have all seen teams and individuals languish without a clear sense of purpose and direction, and thrive with clarity and shared purpose.
As an African proverbs says, ““When spider webs unite, they can tie up a lion”

This is, of course, never more true than when that sense of shared purpose resonates strongly with the individual’s own personal purpose and value system. Your vision serves as a statement to all members, both current and potential, of where the organisation is going, and allows them to choose whether they wish to undertake that journey or not.

There is one universal rule of planning: You will never be greater than the vision that guides you. No Olympic athlete ever got to the Olympics by mistake; a compelling vision of his or her stellar performance inevitably guides all the sweat and tears for many years. The vision statement should require the organization's members to stretch their expectations, aspirations, and performance. Without that powerful, attractive, valuable vision, why bother?

There is much hard work ahead for the KSO. But it is worthwhile being part of a process of changing the description of the White Elephant if not so for elephant herself.

Martin Luther King, Jr. said, "I have a dream," and what followed was a vision that changed a nation. That famous speech is a dramatic example of the power that can be generated by a person who communicates a compelling vision of the future

For further reading on setting Goal, Vision and please visit

http://www1.freewebs.com/consultneindia/
http://guwahatieimi.blogspot.com
[1] A white elephant is a supposedly valuable possession whose cost (particularly cost of upkeep) exceeds its usefulness, and it is therefore a liability.

GUWAHATI SPIRIT??

“Guwahati Spirit” – a magical word for Guwahati Kukis apparently finds close resemblances with the popular Mizo spirit tlâwmngaih, (noun) self-sacrifice, unselfishness, etc; or being self-sacrificing, being unselfish, etc (as under the verb tlawm " ngai above). Also meaning (verb) to practise self-sacrifice, unselfishness, self-denial, etc (as above tlâwm " ngai above).

spirit (spir′it) noun - the life principle, esp. in human beings, originally regarded as inherent in the breath or as infused by a deity may also mean (1) the thinking, motivating, feeling part of a person, often as distinguished from the body; mind; intelligence, (ii) life, will, consciousness, thought, etc., regarded as separate from matter , (iii) a supernatural being, esp. one thought of as haunting or possessing a person, house, etc., as a ghost, or as inhabiting a certain region, being of a certain good (or evil) character, etc., as an angel, demon, fairy, or elf , (iv) an individual person or personality thought of as showing or having some specific quality the brave spirits who pioneered , (v) frame of mind; disposition; mood; temper in high spirits , (vi) vivacity, courage, vigor, enthusiasm, etc. to answer with spirit , (vii) enthusiasm and loyalty school spirit , (viii) real meaning; true intention to follow the spirit if not the letter of the law , (ix) a pervading animating principle, essential or characteristic quality, or prevailing tendency or attitude the spirit of the Renaissance , (x) a divine animating influence or inspiration , (xi) strong alcoholic liquor produced by distillation

Spirit according to Dictionary Of The Lushai Language, is eng ti-thâwl, (p. 128) [ eng ti-thâwl, ] v 1. to behave in a carefree unconstrained manner; to be cheery, jovial, irrepressible, buoyant, bubbling over with good spirits, light-hearted; to throw aside one's cares, burdens, worries, etc and enjoy oneself. 2. to be pompous, consequential, pretentious, affected, conceited, selfsatisfied, to put on airs. adj. cheery, etc (as above); pompous, etc

I do not claim to posse here a complete definition of Guwahati spirit, but this is how I can best put it based on my limited exposure and orientation in Guwahati eimi society since 1998. That the idiom or you may call it phrase is used interchangeably to refer to the unique characteristics of the organized Kukis of Guwahati where responsibilities irrespective of the weight and volume is a shared duty for both young and old alike, male and the female. And also refers to a society which is grounded and based all its initiatives largely on the sheer might of participation and ownership.

I would not be surprised if the term rings altogether different bells to you and others people. I first heard the term being used in the KWS (Guwahati) Sunday services by Pu L.L. Khongsai and also with punches by Pu D.P. Haokip and felt for it instantaneously. It sounded so captivating and turned out to be a very infectious vocabulary as I invariably begun using it in my after-service discussions.

Very lately I wondered if Pu T.S. Agou also noticed what is going through me. I wanted a translation in Thadou-Kuki but could not find it in the Suongmantam Dictionary. Exploration for an appropriate definition of Guwahati Spirit became an enigma and threatened to engulf me once again with its reference fast becoming an officially accepted norm. Probably, it is time for a second edition of Suongmantam Dictionary to hit the stand and give me some rest.

In Guwahati Spirit!

Mangneo Lhungdim

Rich Dad Poor Dad

I recommend this must-read for all eimis especially the students while for the general eimis I wish if somebody can translate the book in Thadou-Kuki.

Rich Dad, Poor Dad is Robert Kiyosaki's first best-selling book. In it, he advocates financial independence by means of investing, real estate, owning businesses, and the use of finance protection tactics.

Rich Dad, Poor Dad is written in what is meant to be an entertaining anecdotal manner to make finances interesting. [citation needed] The most central element stressed by Kiyosaki is the advocacy of owning the system or means of production, rather than being an employee of someone else.

Summary
The book takes the form of a story. It is largely based on Kiyosaki's own upbringing and education in Hawaii, although the degree of fictionalization is disputed. Because of the heavy use of allegory, some readers believe that Kiyosaki created Rich Dad as an author surrogate (a literary device), discussed further in the criticism section below. Many readers believe that the "Rich Dad" in the book, is actually the founder of the "ABC convenient stores" which are found in the most populated areas of a number of the islands of Hawaii.

The Poor Dad in the story is based on Kiyosaki's real father, a PhD holder and graduate of Stanford, Chicago, and Northwestern University, all on full scholarship, who was the head of the Education department of the state of Hawaii. In the book, he is greatly respected until he decides, late in his career, to take a stand on principle against the governor of Hawaii. This leads directly to Poor Dad losing his job, and his inability to find comparable work ever again. Because he has never learned to handle money, instead depending on the government (his employer) for support, he dies in severe debt.

In contrast to this character is Rich Dad, his best friend Michael's father. Rich Dad dropped out in 8th grade, but became a self-made multi-millionaire regardless. He teaches Kiyosaki and Michael a variety of financial lessons, and insists that the boys learn to make money work for them to avoid spending their whole lives working for money, like Rich Dad's employees, as well as Poor Dad, and indeed most of the people in the world.

Anthony Robbins holds a seminar called 'Wealth Mastery' and one of the keynote speakers is a gentleman called Keith Cunningham. During the seminar Cunningham claimed to be Kiyosaki's Rich Dad. This is highly unlikely not only because of the similarity in age between Cunningham and Kiyosaki, and Kiyosaki had stated in his books that Rich Dad had died in 1994. Some have claimed that Rich Dad was a person named Richard Kimi, the deceased founder of Sand and Seaside Hawaiian Hotels.

The book highlights the different attitudes to money, work and life of these two men, and how they in turn influenced key decisions in Kiyosaki's life.

Topics
Among some of the book's topics are: the value of financial intelligence that corporations spend first, then pay taxes, while individuals must pay taxes first that corporations are artificial entities that anyone can use, but the poor usually don't know how Kiyosaki says the rich think differently in how they define simple words like assets and wealth, and how they fund their luxuries. He explains that he defines an asset as any item which produces income (such as rental property,stocks or bonds), and a liability as anything which produces expense (such as one's own home, new widescreen TV, exercise machine, new garden tractor, motorcycle, computers, processed foods, swing sets, barbecue grill, tools, letting your property rundown and a new car every two years).

No one disputes that the rich buy "income-producing assets". Kiyosaki argues that the poor buy worthless items that they think are assets, which clearly do not earn anything, and may have no market value.

According to Kiyosaki, wealth is measured as the number of days the income from your assets will sustain you, and financial independence is achieved when your monthly income from assets exceeds your monthly expenses. Each dad had a different way of teaching their sons.

Quotations
"Physical exercise improves health, mental exercise improves wealth, laziness destroys both."
"A true luxury is a reward for investing in and developing a real asset."
"The only way to get out of the "Rat Race" is to prove your proficiency at both accounting and investing, arguably two of the most difficult subjects to master."

"I have mentioned before that financial intelligence is a synergy of accounting, investing, marketing and law. Combine those four technical skills and making money with money is easier."

“Most people are poor because when it comes to investing, the world is filled with Chicken Littles running around yelling, ‘The sky is falling. The sky is falling.’”

“Many of today's youth have credit cards before they leave high school, yet they have never had a course in money or how to invest it, let alone understand how compound interest works on credit cards.”

The book has been also read and recommended by Pu. L.L. Khongsai for all Kukis. A local version of the book is available with me and if you want to borrow please book your date:
mlhungdim@gmail.com
9864047091

Haopu Khongsai back to business

They say true leaders choose to suffer hardships unnoticed - out of the public view. Haopu, the General Secretary-KSO (G) experimented this recently, last Sunday.

Soon after the Lottery Committee (Gl. Helun, Nl. Lalkim, Gl. Hengoumang, Pu Mangneo and Gl. Haopu) finalized the ticket design, prizes, budget etc. for the Grand Lottery - 2008, we all went back to our gilbems and gilzoms and thought we had a good start. Around 11 pm I was finishing up the minutes of the meeting and about to join the warm company of my loved ones in bed when the phone buzzed. It was Haopu in his weakest voice asking me to rush (with Hengoumang) to his residence as he had become very weak after 10 consecutive motions.

He was taken to Downtown Emergency ward where the doctors kept him under observation for few hours before we all decided on his hospitalization. Later on we moved him to the 4th floor for the next 2 days.

Yesterday evening (Tuesday) Pu L.L. Khongsai led us in thanksgiving as Haopu was discharged and taken to Pu. L.L. Khongsais' residence.

Few interesting things during the brief hospitalization:

• The first complaint notes of the attending doctor read "gastro,..after pork in KUT festival"
• Hours after we moved Haopu on the 4th floor, Sangboi (sports secretary) assured us he will join us in an hour but managed to reach the room next afternoon. The KSO boss (Hengoumang) found out later that Sangboi had thought it was only a bad dream he had.
• The KSO president made the highest sacrifice on monday as he watched helplessly the Indo-Pak ODI on TV in the hospital as the Nehru Stadium ticket flipped by his side. He had looked forward to enjoying the once in a lifetime live cricket match that on the sunday evening after he dropped Haopu, he drove to the stadium to ensure the match was on.
• Funny was the attitudes of the doctors and attendents on emergency duty who kept pestering Hengoumang for his Indo-Pak ODI lone ticket.

JAB WE MET - KUT 2007

JAB WE MET - KUT 2007

On the 31st Oct I was transported to New Delhi, spent the KUT eve in a not so popular economy hotel at East of Kailash and the next morning (KUT) dedicated service to my employer (Catholic Relief Services). Luckily for me Enakshi (my boss) and Deepa (TISS classmate) suggested we all go out to join common friends Mangboi Kipgen and Kikim Kipgen at the much more popular Delhi Haat for KUT special dinner. The out-of-the-world Naga Pork gourmet there completed the KUT celebration.

Mangboi played the NRH (Non-resident Host) and billed the food expense and we unanimously declared him the KUT PA (Chief Guest) of the night out.

The next day after office business, I joined old friends Tongmang and Chochong at #320 DDA Flats, Dwarka and spent the night catching up on family, kids, professional fronts, etc. Both their kids enjoyed my intrusion as they went about displaying all the antics our friends (the couple) taught their kids.

In the morning of 3rd Nov, my host drove me to the domestic airport in his faithful under nourished milky white four seaters all the while seemingly worried on driving back ASAP and packing up the entire family for the Chavang Golseh at JNU stadium where as usual Kukis of Delhi would flock together to sing Li li li li.!. Ho ho ho ho ho….. soon after my lailleng took off (lailleng = airplane as is called in N.C. Hills) as I reclined to take a quick nap my CPU tried reasoning why my host rather strangely ran off immediately after reaching me and suddenly, the truth struck me and I could not empathize with him more (his only motivation was to avoid the volleys of Greek words from the showman -event main organizer). Minutes before I doze off, a tinge of nostalgia sipped in of the early 90s parties the Showman most efficiently organized and how much we all enjoyed them. Till today after a good 15 years, whenever the word party crossed me I am reminded of the original showman of Delhi with those wild nights he put together for us in Outram Lines, Satya Niktan, Vijay Nagar, KMC etc. and those intentionally toned muscles of Tahchapas glued around the most slender waists of Tahchanus dancing through the night under the spellbound slokas of Bryan Adams, Elton John, Celine Dion ….

It was fate that took me back to old time Delhi this KUT and I will treasure the moments spent with Enakshi, Kim, Mangboi, Deepa at Delhi Haat, the reassuring phone talk with Hethong, and the quality time spent with Tem, Chong and their lovely (read cute) boys. One very funny fourth also is that I missed KUT celebration for the fourth consecutive years in Guwahati while very much a resident of Guwahati.

May God bless all of you!

Mangneo Lhungdim -the KUT misser

Empowerkukisociety e-group online ahitai!

The limited space we have for discusing issues of sustainable development in the midst of political and religious discourses available to us online today, few individuals engaged or having keen interest in NGO and community development sector among have formed a forum;

Group home page: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/empowerkukisociety

Group email address: empowerkukisociety@yahoogroups.com

Egged on by Chongboi Haokip (Australia), Jamkholal Lhungdim (Guwahati) and inspired by the milestones and innovations achieved by many like-minded development professionals namely; Hethong Haokip (Consultant), Rev. Dino Touthang (EFICOR-Delhi) Christopher Lun (Director GWF, Mizoram), Lamkhomang Kipgen (CEO, WSDS-Manipur), Konthang Touthang (Under Secretary-RD, GOI), Bro Haupu, (Director Agape-Manipur), Holkhomang Haokip (RAIDS), Paojalen Haokip (BADOM) and many more... the forum has been launched on 12th october 2007.

Main issues the group will discuss shall revolve around sustainable development of Kuki community. And issues related to politics will be avoided so far as it does not directly form part of the main discusion on sustainable development.

Key words common would include;

• Sustainablity
• Participation
• Governance and democracy
• Gender
• equity
• Agriculture
• Health
• Education
• Alternative development designs and process
• etc.

Guwahati Eimi Lomgol (GEL/GELOM) launched

The innovative idea of breaking some socio-economic barriers impregnated from informal after-sunday services discussions of like-minded persons spearheaded by Helun Hangshing, Manglet Haokip, Lalboi Lhungdim, Haupu Khongsai, Khaipao Haokip, Mangneo Lhungdim and few others finally has seen the light of the day on 7th October 2007 when representative members officially launched the Guwahati Eimi Lomgol (GEL/GELOM) at the residence of Mangneo Lhungdim, Beltola.

The 10 founder members includes, Helun Hangshing, Haoneo Hangshing, Mangneo Lhungdim, Manglet Haokip, Khaipao Haokip, Lhingboi Tuboi, Chonneo Haokip, Jamkholal Lhungdim, Haopu Khongsai and Kailen Singson.

GEL Articles of Association (Drafted by Jamkholal Lhungdim)

1. Proposed Name: Guwahati Eimi Lomgol (GEL)/(GELOM); any other suggestion….etc

2. Temporary office: Residence of Mr. Mangneo Lhungdim at 104, Gourikund Aprts, Ranibagan Housing Estate, Tiniali, Beltola, Guwahati-28

3. Purpose: Sustainable SAVING through group approach

4. Objectives: (Primary)

(a) To render financial assistance to the group member with nominal interest
(b) To augment the income of the members through the lending of its corpus fund (see Art. No. )
(c) To extend financial assistance to other needy members of the community with nominal rate of interest as far as possible.
(e) To create a forum where issues relating to the Kuki community in Guwahati in particular and the whole Kuki community in general can be discussed.
(f) To experiment & explore the possibility of further expansion and upgration of the group for all practical purpose.

5. Membership:

(a) Initially the nos. of member will be restricted to 10 (ten) [see Art. 9] till further agreement is made otherwise by the founder members.
(b) All the members are expected to contribute their share and retain their membership till the last member gets it share of the group contribution
(c) After all the members get their share, any willing member may withdraw his/her membership, and he/she will be entitled to receive ½ of his monthly contribution (Lets review this)
(d) Any newly inducted member shall have to pay the same amount of the contribution made by the other members till the time of induction;
(e) The amount contributed by the new member shall be incorporated as the corpus fund and his/her entitlement and liability will be the same as the other members subsequently.

6. Monthly contribution & distribution:

(a) Each member shall have to contribute & submit a sum of Rs. 1000 (one thousand) on every 1st Sunday of the month starting from the 7th Oct. 2007
(b) The amount thus brought together by the members will be given to one lucky member by draw of lot and only the remaining members will be entitle to the subsequent monthly LUCKY DRAW
(c) Each recipient of the Lucky draw shall contribute a sum of Rs. 1000 (one thousand) only to the corpus fund
(d) For the subsequent month, each recipient of the Lucky draw shall contribute an additional amount of Rs. 50 (fifty) only over and above his/her normal monthly contribution.
(e) Incase of a member draw winner not willing to take the distribution, the GEL will decide to pass it on to a willing member who is yet to be a draw winner.

7. Lending of the corpus fund:

(a) The corpus fund thus collected from the members can be given as loan to the other non-recipient members or even to person outside the group on priority basis with nominal rate of interest
(b) The rate of interest for the members will be 2% and 3% for others
(c) Any one member of the GEL will have to stand as surety for those loan to other
(d) All monetary transaction has to be decided/approved only during the monthly meeting of the members
(e) Charitable contribution may be accepted or given according to the circumstances and availability of resources

8. Accounting & Bookkeeping:

(a) A separate bank account is to be opened at SBI by Pu Manglet & Pu Khaipao (jointly/ individually)
(b) A Finance record of the income, interest earned, loan disbursed, repayment, expenditure etc is to be maintained on rotation within the membership and shall be updated every meeting. For the first few months the same will be maintained by Pu. Mangneo
(c) Since all or most members have access to internet and computer, the updates will be done through email and also simultaneously in the blog: http://guwahatieimi.blogspot.com/

9. List of Founder members:
(1) Gl. Helun Hanghing Education
(2) Gl. Haoneo Hangshing PNB
(3) Pu Mangneo Lhungdim NGO
(4) Pu Manglet Haokip SBI
(5) Pu Khaipao Haokip SBI
(6) Pu Jamkholal (Lalboi) NGO
(7) Haopu Khongsai NEEPCO
(8) Gl. Kailen Singson Railways
(9) Ng.Chonneo Haokip Business
(10) Ng. Lhingboi Tuboi Medical

Guwahati Eimis: 1998-2007

Guwahati Eimis: 1998-2007, a personal account

Since which year have the Kukis lived in Guwahati, is rather a difficult one but not necessary to answer. But if we try dating the history of Kukis vis-a-vis timelining the KSO, KWS and KWA you will also agree that KSO constituted 1996 was followed by KWS and KWA in matters of years.

Kukis are a little older than a decade in the upcoming mega-city of the NE and much muddy flood water has flowed down Brahmaputra, the only male river.

I first tasted the dust of Guwahati in 1990, my onward journey to Delhi for 'higher studies' the city then was still struggling to keep pace with development. My second inning in the Guwahati maidan (after eight years) happened in 1998 and since then I have neither looked back nor beyond the city. Interestingly, most of my 'firsts' happened in Guwahati - my first job, first salary, first tithe, first house rent, first flight journey, first visit to other NE states, and my first Tahchanu Eimi girlfriend who later on consented to become my life partner. Thus, in more ways than I can count, I am a Die-hard guwahatian!

Ever since I have landed in Guwahati few wonderful people have touched my life and changed my perspectives. Many Kukis have come and moved out, some even come back again and again. Though there has been a sea change in the last 3-5 years in the city landscape, Guwahati used to be a poor second choice when it comes to choice of posting for Kuki employees, and for wannabe students as well. It was understandable as the facilities did not measure up even half of what you and I enjoy/access today. Today, over 20 Eimis have created assests (land, flats, houses) we can be proud of.

Models of Guwahati Eimis:

I would like to single out few individuals/families who have set exemplary models for all of us who are still struggling, and the list naturally begins with Heni Hoipha Haokip, the survivor-entrepreneur. Any person who has known her since last 5 years will not contest my judgement. She has tried out almost every possible enterprise from boys hostel, poultry farm, vegetable vendor, shop, petty business to even mobilisng thrift groups. The opportunities she has created for her young wards, relatives and all of us will never be surpassed.

The rich, the not-so rich and even the most vulnerable love her and has been helped by her. Heni is the symbol of Guwahati Kukis/Eimis for eternity.

I have two couples coming straight second in the celebrated list - the ever green couple, envied and aprreciated by all: Pu D.P. Haokip and Pi Ngailhing Haokip. Their mere presence in Guwahati was motivation, assurance and security for the young and old alike. I am yet to come across another more Godly couple ever welcoming, genuine concerns, leading by example like them. When the news of their transfer to Bangalore finally was announced on that fateful KWS sunday, one thing that struck me was: God has answered the prayers of Kukis/Eimis of Bangalore that He delivered Pu D.P. Haokip and Pi Ngailhing to them.

The next couple most deservedly worth give a standing ovation is Pu L.L. Khongsai and Pi Moi Khongsai. A civil engineer turned socio-religio engineer, Gods' own servant and a living proof of blessing in abundance for those who seek first His kingdom.

Very few friends in Guwahati would know U Lunjalen is a family, a brother-figure an example for me since early 1980s when along with peers we used to be ardent fans of the melodious gospel numbers the "Peace Chanters" belted out. In fact one more of my firsts in Guwahati also includes Pu L. L. Khongsai & family, the day I landed in Guwahati to join my first job I put up with the family and U Moi gave me warm delicious food while U Lunjalen prayed for me.

Because Pu L.L. Khongsai & family tested God by surrendering to His Mercy, The Good Lord has not ceased blessing them till today. The latest gift from God - a cosy brand new, state of the art GETZ.

Pu J. Lhungdim and Pi Kim Lhungdim are in another leaque as they have toiled wider soil, sowed more varieties of seeds in cities of Delhi, Shillong besides Guwahati. Gods' blessing epitomized in the life of Pu J. Lhungdim who candidly acknowledges Gods' blessing at any given opportunity. Pu J. Lhungdim is modest, straight, strong, pro-active and a risk-taker whose preaching-in-actions has influenced many a young struggling lives, motivated and encouraged many students coming from the not-so-well-off background.

Because our leaders looked Gods' way, not only they God blessed but also the followers He also blessed!

The Eimis of Guwahati should rejoice as GODs' one hand takes Pu. D.P. Haokip from us for Bangalore, His other hand installs Pu J. Lhungdim for Guwahati.

to be continued.....

Next four Gods' People - Pu. T. Thangngeo IPS, Pu. S. Thadou IAS, Pu V. Changsan, Gl Lamhao APS

Note: The above documentation is purely based on my personal impression and without any coerce or compulsion