Community Development Society

On the occasion of 76th Indian Independence Day 2022 held at Lamka Public Ground by the District Administration, Churachandpur, Community Development Society is one of the awardees of the occasion for the service rendered for the society through the Solid Waste Management Project.

The solid Waste Management Programme in Churachandpur District was implemented on 1st September 2017. The program has been initiated by the Autonomous District Council of Churachandpur to improve sanitation through the waste collection and waste disposal of Lamka town, Churachandpur.

CDS is a working partner of the Solid Waste Management Program, employs 4 sanitation workers for the program, and works in the door-to-door collection, transportation and disposal of waste. This sanitation activity is carried out twice a week, covering 4 localities within the town area: Lailam Veng, Central Lamka area, Khumujamba, Pearsonmun, Kawnpui, Thingkangphai, Zenhang Lamka, Nehru Marg and Bungmual covering approximately a total number of 800 households.

A 45-day job-linked Skill Training Programme in Food and Beverages was formally inaugurated at the first floor of Synod House, Hill Town, Churachandpur. The initiative is supported by INDIGO CSR and implemented by the Community Development Society (CDS), with Vishan Hospitality, Gurgaon, serving as the technical and training partner. The programme was dedicated to God, marking the beginning of a new opportunity for local youth.

The inaugural event was hosted by Ms. Chingbiakhoih, Centre Head, and opened with a dedication prayer led by Pastor Goutanlian of EBCC Bethel, Lailam Veng, seeking blessings for the trainees and the smooth implementation of the programme.

In his address, Mr. Lianzamung Tonsing, President of CDS, highlighted the collective effort of the three collaborating agencies and expressed gratitude to INDIGO CSR for supporting the initiative. He commended Vishan Hospitality for its strong national track record in professional training and shared that several past trainees have already secured employment in countries such as Dubai, Japan, and Singapore. He encouraged the new batch of trainees to approach the training with commitment, discipline, and hard work.

Ms. Chingbiakhoih provided an overview of the programme, which is open to youth aged 18–30 who have completed Class XII. She underscored that the training is completely free of cost and will run up to five batches annually. She urged trainees to maintain punctuality, regular attendance, and active participation to make the most of the opportunity.

This programme marks the first INDIGO-sponsored skill training initiative in the Northeast region, paving the way for young people to acquire market-relevant skills and enhance their prospects for gainful employment.

In response to the devastating floods and hailstorms that struck Churachandpur  District, Manipur in between April and May 2024, Community Development Society (CDS), in collaboration with UNICEF Assam and the North East India region, launched a transformative initiative to distribute 500 solar lanterns to 37 affected villages. The project aimed to provide lighting solutions to families facing power outages and the aftermath of natural disasters. A meticulous selection process including focus group discussions, consultations with village chiefs, partnerships with philanthropic organizations and coordination with the district administration was implemented.

This initiative extended its benefits to 37 villages across Churachandpur District, each of which had endured significant hardship due to natural disasters. The recipient villages included Zoumunnuam, Tuibong, D Leilot, Buallian, Panglian, Lamzang, Bongbal, MT Geltam, Songnal, T. Monglham, M. Buangmun, Hiangdung, S Phaija, Zahong, Likhai, Hiangtam (K), Zoukhonuam, Behiang, Suangphu, Lungchin, Tuikui Muallum (Suangdai), L Kanaan, Tonjang, Phuaijang, Ngaljang, Sumtukphai, Phaikhothang, Kangkap, Songtal, Sinzawl, Khajang, Sumtuh, Joutung, Bukpi, Zoupi, Aibulon, and Phaitong.

The distribution of solar lantern directly benefited 500 families, impacting 3,594 individuals—1,724 men, 1,870 women, and 1,078 children. For these communities, the lanterns were more than just a source of light; they symbolized hope and resilience, empowering families to rebuild their lives and fostering a sense of normalcy.

On February 20, 2025, a monitoring visit was carried out at the Horticulture farm in Kaihlam village under the THEIHUAN-II project, which is implemented by Community Development Society and funded by NABARD. The visiting team comprised Shri Paubiakmang Ngaihte, AGM of NABARD, Mr. Lianbiaksang, Project Coordinator, and Mr. Thangzahau, PIA staff.

During the two-hour field inspection, the team evaluated the farm’s overall condition and noted that crops such as oranges and pineapples were thriving. They commended the farmers for their diligent efforts in maintaining the plantation and ensuring its consistent growth. The team was particularly impressed by the farmers’ initiative to cultivate bananas as an intercrop, which had yielded encouraging results. This practice not only optimized land use but also highlighted the farmers’ innovative mindset and entrepreneurial approach.

The visit underscored the positive outcomes of the THEIHUAN-II project in fostering sustainable horticultural practices and enhancing the livelihoods of local farmers. The team encouraged the farmers to sustain their efforts and explore additional opportunities to boost farm productivity. Their words of appreciation served as a source of motivation for the farmers to continue refining their agricultural practices, ensuring lasting benefits for the community.

In response to the floods and hailstorms that affected villages and households in Churachandpur District, Manipur, and with the support of UNICEF Assam and the North Eastern States, we installed 18 water tanks across seven villages: Sumtukphai, Phaikhothang, Buallian, Bongbal, Panglian, S. Bualkot, and D. Leikot.

The installation of these water storage tanks aimed to provide safe drinking water to the affected communities. A total of 18 tanks were installed, including 3 tanks with a capacity of 5,000 liters, 10 tanks with a capacity of 3,000 liters, and 5 tanks with a capacity of 1,000 liters. This initiative will help ensure reliable access to clean water and strengthen the resilience of these villages in the face of future challenges.

Humanitarian Aid Strengthens Resilience in Lamka (Churachandpur) After Devastating Storms Lamka (Churachandpur) District, Manipur State suffered extensive damage from a series of hailstorms and windstorms occurring between April and June 2024, which affected more than 4,000 people. In response, the Community Development Society (CDS) with support from UNICEF Assam and North Eastern States initiated a humanitarian response to provide relief support to the affected households.

Aid, including 1,000 hygiene kits, 500 portable solar lanterns, 18 water storage tanks (Syntex) and chlorine tablets were also provided. A mobile emergency water filtration unit was also established, and 20 toilets were rebuilt in the affected villages to improve sanitation and hygiene conditions.

Adding more to the cherished moment, the Sub-Divisional Officer of Singngat Subdivision, Lamka (Churachandpur District) has conferred CDS with an appreciation certificate on the 76th Republic Day Celebration Programme at Singngat for  the relief works we have done to the hailstorm and windstorm affected households.

MANIPUR CRISIS | LIVELIHOOD SUPPORT

The humanitarian crisis in Manipur, which began on 3rd May 2023 and continues to affect the region, has resulted in over 20,000 individuals fleeing for their lives. This crisis has not only caused immense human suffering but has also led to the collapse of the local economy, leaving many internally displaced persons (IDPs) in urgent need of support for livelihood restoration.

The IDPs in Manipur are facing numerous challenges as a result of the crisis. These challenges include lack of access to basic necessities such as food, shelter, and healthcare, loss of livelihoods and income sources, psychological trauma due to displacement and violence, and uncertainty about their future and prospects for returning to normalcy.

Livelihood restoration support is crucial for the IDPs in Manipur to help them rebuild their lives and communities. By providing assistance in restoring livelihoods, such as through skills training, job opportunities, farming, animal husbandry, and access to markets, the IDPs can regain economic stability and self-sufficiency. This support not only addresses immediate needs but also contributes to long-term resilience and recovery efforts.

Community Development Society (CDS) plays a vital role in addressing the needs of the victims of the ethnic crisis in Manipur. CDS is actively involved in providing humanitarian assistance, including livelihood restoration support, to help IDPs rebuild their lives. The organization’s efforts are aimed at empowering the affected communities, promoting sustainable development initiatives, and fostering resilience among the displaced population.

In light of the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Manipur and the urgent need for livelihood restoration support for IDPs, organizations like CDS are calling upon individuals and donors to contribute towards these efforts. Every contribution, no matter how small, can make a significant difference in helping the displaced population recover from the crisis and rebuild their lives.

It is crucial to ensure that the organization to which you made the donation is eligible for deductions under Section 80G and that the receipt provided complies with the requirements set forth by the Income Tax Department. By availing of this deduction, you can effectively lower your tax burden while supporting charitable causes and initiatives recognized by the government.