Contributions of Md. Alimuddin, former Chief Minister of Manipur
From Mohammed Irfan in Imphal
Mohammed Alimuddin (1920 in Thoubal district-3 February 1983) was an Indian politician and a former Chief Minister of Manipur
Md. Alimuddin, a prominent figure in Manipuri politics, is considered a key figure in shaping modern Manipur, despite his relatively short tenure as Chief Minister (March 1972-March 1973 and March-July 1974).
Builder of institutions
Regional Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS): He laid the foundation for the Manipur Medical College (now RIMS) at Lamphel, inaugurated on May 22, 1972.
Manipur Public Service Commission (MPSC): He inaugurated the MPSC on October 23, 1972.
Board of Secondary Education, Manipur (BOSEM) and Law Commission: These important regulatory bodies were established in 1972 during his tenure.
Pioneer of Higher Education
JNU Post Graduate Centre at Canchipur: He played a key role in establishing this center, which later evolved into the present Manipur University,
He strategically chose Canchipur, the site of Maharaj Gambhir Singh's Langthabal Palace, to be the center of higher education in Manipur.
He actively worked to develop educational infrastructure in Muslim-dominated areas and helped many schools in these areas gain government recognition. He was also a founding member of Lilong Haoreibi College (established 1976), the only college in a predominantly Muslim area.
Champion of farmers
He introduced double-cropping to increase agricultural yield in the state.
He built dams and irrigation facilities, like the Lilong Dam, to support farmers during difficult seasons.
Keeper of Manipur's historical memory
He declared August 13 as Patriots' Day, a state holiday to honor those who died during the Anglo-Manipur War.
He instituted the observance of Khongjom Day on April 23 to commemorate the final battle of Manipur's independence in 1891, inviting President V.V. Giri to Khongjom for the event.
Devoted statesman
He was one of the earliest public representatives of independent Manipur, first elected in 1948, and won multiple terms as MLA and served as a Minister.
He became Chief Minister in March 1972 after Manipur attained statehood, leading the Manipur People's Party (MPP). He also served as Speaker (December 1974-September 1975) and Finance Minister (June 1977-November 1979).
He instituted the observance of Khongjom Day on April 23 to commemorate the final battle of Manipur's independence in 1891, inviting President V.V. Giri to Khongjom for the event.
Md. Alimuddin is remembered for his efforts to modernize Manipur by developing institutions, promoting education, supporting agriculture, and preserving history
