Khelen Thokchom Trust Marks 66th Birth Anniversary, Honours Enduring Legacy of Veteran Journalist

IMPHAL: The Khelen Thokchom Trust on Tuesday observed the 66th birth anniversary of renowned journalist Late Khelen Thokchom at the All Manipur Women’s Association, Purana Rajbari, Nongmeibung, Imphal East, paying tribute to his enduring legacy in journalism and extending support to the inmates of the association.

The programme was attended by Thokchom Memcha Devi, donor to the Trust; senior journalist Irengbam Arun, adviser to the Trust; K. Priyoshakhi, treasurer of the All Manipur Women’s Association; and Ksh. Umesh, former councillor of Imphal Municipal Corporation Ward No. 21, who graced the occasion as members of the dais.

Members of the Trust, family members, friends and inmates of the association gathered to offer floral tributes to the portrait of Late Khelen Thokchom, recalling his professional dedication, commitment to journalistic ethics and fearless approach to reporting.

Born on October 27, 1960, Khelen Thokchom was a distinguished journalist who made significant contributions to the media landscape of Manipur. During his illustrious career, he served as the founding editor of The Sangai Express and worked as a special correspondent for The Telegraph. He passed away on April 1, 2018, leaving behind a rich journalistic legacy.

Established and registered in 2018 in his memory, the Khelen Thokchom Trust seeks to promote excellence in regional journalism. As part of its efforts to encourage professional growth and quality reporting, the Trust has been awarding fellowships to journalists through annual media fellowship assignments. However, the fellowship programme has remained suspended following the outbreak of the ongoing conflict in Manipur.

Marking the birth anniversary with a humanitarian gesture, the Trust distributed winter blankets and essential items to the All Manipur Women’s Association for the benefit of its inmates.

The observance served as a tribute to the life and legacy of Late Khelen Thokchom, reaffirming the Trust’s commitment to upholding the values of independent journalism, professional integrity and social responsibility that defined his career.