A commemorative plaque honouring the Japanese soldiers who sacrificed their lives during World War II at Maibam Lotpa Ching (Red Hill) was unveiled at the old tomb (Ireito) in Maibam Lotpa Ching Nambol, Bishnupur district on Thursday.
Chairman of Indo-Japan Friendship Association (IJFA), Tokyo, Nakajima Keiji, and former union minister of state Youth Affairs and Sports, Thounaojam Chaoba Singh, formally unveiled the plague in the ceremony organised by Indian National Army Japanese Reception Association, Nambol, in association with Indo-Japan Friendship Association, Tokyo & Numit Otentousama Chata.
Speaking on the occasion, Thounaojam Chaoba urged the Japanese authorities to set up a proper Japanese school in Manipur that can help in exposing people of the state to Japanese language and culture.
He also appealed to Japanese authorities to dispense necessary resources required to enact a proper Japanese hospital in the state. Chaoba maintained that construction of such infrastructure would strengthen the deep historical bond between the two countries.
“I have requested the Japanese delegates present at the ceremony to extend their service in ushering world class infrastructure at Maibam Lotpa ching,” he said.
Thounaojam Chaoba stated that the plaque memorialised the selfless sacrifice of numerous Japanese soldiers who laid down their lives in the Battle of Imphal during World War II.
He mentioned that the plaque would stand as a testament for posterity about human courage and determination. It would also teach the future generation about the cruelty and destruction that war can bring, Chaoba added.
He further extended gratitude to the Japanese delegate for coming down to Imphal for the ceremony.
Meanwhile, chairman of Indo-Japan Friendship Association (IJFA), Tokyo Nakajima Keiji pointed out that Manipur and Japan shared a deep historical bond.
He maintained that increasing awareness about the shared historical connection would aid in strengthening this connection.
“Even though it is my first time in Manipur, the warmth and hospitality of the people has exceeded my expectations; I will convey this message of generosity to my friends and encourage them to visit this state,” he said.
IJFA general secretary Miura Mamoru, president of Manami Japanese restaurant Tomiyama Ryuji, general manager Manami Japanese restaurant Oishi Takenari along with president of Indian National Army Japanese Reception Association, Nambol L Budhachandra among others were present at the ceremony.
