Manipur CM urges students to adopt honesty, hard work and humanity

Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh addressed the 27th Foundation Day Celebration of Herbert School in Imphal on Saturday, urging students to adopt honesty, sincerity, hard work and humanity as guiding principles. The Shillong Times reported that the chief minister said student life is a crucial stage that lays the foundation for future careers and aspirations.

Emphasis on core values

Singh stressed that academic qualifications alone are insufficient; they must be complemented by integrity and diligence. He argued that the progress of a country is reflected in the values, integrity and work ethic of its people, and that these qualities should be inculcated from an early stage of life. According to the chief minister, honesty, sincerity and hard work are essential ingredients for building a better society.

Anecdote from Singapore

Recalling a visit to Singapore in the 90s, Singh described an encounter with a taxi driver who was new to the profession. The meter initially showed a fare of 12 dollars, but the driver returned two dollars and charged only 10 dollars, explaining that he had taken a longer route because he was unfamiliar with the roads. Singh said the driver’s honesty in acknowledging his mistake and charging the appropriate amount left a lasting impression on him. He noted that, although Singapore is geographically smaller than the combined area of five valley districts of Manipur, it has emerged as one of the countries with the highest per-capita income in Southeast Asia.

Lesson from Seoul

The chief minister also shared an experience from a visit to Seoul, where an older woman, a complete stranger, approached him and offered food. Singh described the simple gesture as a vivid illustration of humanity and kindness shown to people they do not know. He emphasized that such acts of compassion demonstrate the importance of humanity in everyday life.

Advice to the student community

Singh urged students not to become complacent after completing their education. He advised them to continue striving toward their aspirations with determination and commitment, keeping honesty, sincerity, hard work and humanity at the core of their actions. The chief minister highlighted that the values nurtured during student life shape individuals and, collectively, contribute to a more progressive and compassionate society.

Closing remarks

Concluding his address, Singh called on the young audience to internalise the principles he outlined, suggesting that personal integrity and a strong work ethic are as vital as academic achievement. He reiterated that the future of Manipur depends on the character of its youth, and that embracing honesty, hard work and humanity will help the state move forward on a path of inclusive development.