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.

As part of Swachhata Hi Seva 2026, Community Development Society (CDS) organised three activities at CDS Skill Centre, 1st Floor, Synod House, Hill Town, Lamka, Churachandpur District, Manipur on 29 and 30 September 2026.

The activities were organised under the Vocational Training Centre for Youth, a project implemented by CDS with support from IndiGo CSR. Trainees from 7th and 8th batches of Hospitality – Food and Beverages took part in the programme. The activities were conducted following the initiative of the Tourism and Hospitality Skill Council (THSC).

Cleanliness Drive

On 29 September 2026, a cleanliness drive was carried out at the Training Centre and its surrounding areas. The trainees joined the activity and helped clean the premises and nearby areas. The activity aimed the trainees to take greater sense of responsibility for the place where they study and work.

Poster Competition

A poster competition was held on 30 September 2026, in which 46 trainees participated. The trainees prepared posters on themes such as Swachhata, Clean India, Waste Management and Reduce-Reuse-Recycle. Through their drawings and messages, they shared ideas on proper waste disposal, environmental protection, recycling and responsible use of resources. The competition gave the trainees an opportunity to express their understanding of these issues through art and simple messages.

Debate

On the same day (30.09.2026), a debate was organised on the topic “Are citizens the primary culprits or the victims of poor system management?”

A total of 10 trainees participated in the debate. Different views were presented by the participants. Some spoke about the responsibility of citizens and their everyday habits, while others highlighted the need for proper systems, infrastructure and public services. The discussion brought out different sides of the issue and helped the trainees understand that better communities require both responsible citizens and effective public systems.

The trainees were able to take part in Swachhata Hi Seva 2026 through practical work, creative expression and discussion through the three activities. The programme also provided a space for them to reflect on waste management, environmental responsibility and their own role in the community. Along with skill training and employment opportunities, CDS continues to encourage young people to develop a sense of responsibility towards their workplace, environment and community.

Trainees of Hospitality – Food and Beverages under the Vocational Training Centre for Youth (VTCY) participated in a Workshop on Pradhan Mantri–National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (PM-NAPS), Northeast Region on 26 September 2026 at the District Panchayat Resource Centre, Mini Secretariat, Tuibong, Churachandpur.

The trainees attended the programme following an invitation from the District Administration, Churachandpur. VTCY is implemented by Community Development Society (CDS) with support from IndiGo CSR.

The workshop was organised by the Directorate of Craftsmen Training under the SLEE Department, Government of Manipur. The programme covered apprenticeship opportunities, PM-NAPS, registration of establishments and registration of candidates. A question-and-answer session was also held for the participants.

For the trainees, the workshop was a good opportunity to learn about apprenticeship and how they can gain workplace experience after completing their skill training. They also learned about the registration process and the opportunities available under the scheme.

Such exposure is useful for the trainees as they prepare to move from training to employment. Apart from classroom and practical sessions, VTCY trainees are also encouraged to participate in programmes where they can learn about employment, apprenticeship and other opportunities available to young people.

Community Development Society thanked the District Administration, Churachandpur for inviting our trainees to participate in the programme and giving them the opportunity to learn more about apprenticeship opportunities.

Community Development Society (CDS) organised the Valedictory Ceremony for the 6th Batch of Hospitality – Food & Beverages Training at CDS Skill Centre, Synod House, Hill Town, Lamka. The programme marked the completion of the 45-day training conducted under the Vocational Training Centre for Youth, supported by IndiGo CSR.

The programme was facilitated by Hoihte, Trainer. Lamcy Haokip, Centre Coordinator, delivered the keynote address and gave a brief report on the training and placement activities.

Lalrobul Fimate, Additional Deputy Commissioner, Churachandpur, attended the programme and presented certificates and flowers to the trainees who completed the course.

While addressing the trainees, he encouraged them to understand their abilities, interests and what they want to achieve in life. He advised them to work hard towards their goals instead of waiting for opportunities to come to them. He also appreciated the work being carried out by CDS for the youth and encouraged the organisation to continue its efforts in skill training and employment.

Rev. M. Ginminthang, Child Coordinator, EBC, offered a prayer of thanksgiving and prayed for the trainees and the Training Centre. He encouraged the trainees to hold on to good values and be a good example wherever they may go for employment.

Lianzamung Tonsing, President, CDS, also spoke to the trainees and encouraged them to work hard and remain committed to their responsibilities. He reminded those who would be moving to different cities for employment to remain connected with their community through local welfare associations, societies and fellowships. He also reminded them that every job has its own challenges and encouraged them to face these challenges with patience, hard work and perseverance.

On behalf of the 6th Batch, Angelina Chingzarzo shared a few words during the programme. The programme ended with a vote of thanks by Thangzahau Tombing, HR Manager, CDS.

Vocational Training Centre for Youth was started by CDS in 2025 with support from IndiGo CSR. Through the project, young people are provided employment-linked skill training in Hospitality – Food & Beverages.

Since the start of the programme, around 160 young people have completed the training. About 90 percent of the trained candidates have secured employment, including placements in 4-star and 5-star hotels in different cities across India.

In the 6th Batch, 29 trainees were enrolled and 26 completed the training. Three trainees could not complete the course due to personal reasons.

The training is provided free of cost with support from IndiGo CSR. Training materials, food and refreshments are also provided during the training period. After completion of the course, CDS provides placement assistance to help the trainees find employment in the hospitality sector.

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.