In an endeavour to restore normalcy, bolster resilience, facilitate healing, and nurture cultural identity, the Naoyok Naokon Foundation has organised a structured 7-day non-residential winter camp from January 3 to January 9. Although initially planned as a 15-day programme, funding limitations necessitated a reduction to 7 days, with the Department of Social Welfare providing trek suits for the participants. Well-wishers and some like-minded NGOs also provide financial/material support for the camp.
The camp delivered extracurricular and psychosocial services tailored to the needs of children, especially those hailing from communities affected by conflict. These services include instruction in indigenous martial arts (Thang-Ta), moral education, meditation, mental health support, and recreational activities, all designed to mitigate the adverse impacts of disrupted education, chronic stress, exposure to violence, and social fragmentation. The camp’s trekking program also plays a pivotal role in teaching children about spiritual connection with nature, emphasizing prayer and permission from the mountain’s deity, alongside practical lessons on environmental stewardship through tree planting and avoiding plastic litter in the jungle. Clinical psychologists, social workers, and community leaders contributed to the camp by providing relevant sessions.
Ema Mutum Shanti, writer & coloumnist and the chief guest at the closing ceremony, emphasized in her speech the importance of protecting internally displaced persons and cautioned against using them as human shields during public protests, given their already torn lives and dire circumstances. She further emphasized that parental resort to verbal and physical abuse stems from their inability to serve as role models. She further expresses concern about parents’ financial stability in supporting their children’s well-being and plans to launch an income generation initiative for them in the heart of Ema market.
Dr. Thanjam Suraj, Senior Neurologist at RIMS and guest of honour in the event , expressed admiration for the effective programs organized for children, which could serve as community benchmarks. Thanjam Sunita @ Erickhombi Leima, General Secretary of Naoyok Naokon called on the government to fund more programs for children in relief camps and suggests that longer-term residential camps would yield better outcomes.
The ceremony was attended by guardians of participants primarily from relief camps. Time was allocated for the children to share their thoughts and feelings, with many articulating their joy and the positive impact of the program. Dignitaries distributed participation certificates and recognition for contributions as instructors and volunteers. The programme concluded with a brief talent show featuring participants.
Non-residential winter camp draws to a close
