For Lt Col (Retd) L. Manongba, the motto “Service Before Self” did not retire with his uniform. Decades after serving in the Indian Army, he has continued his mission — this time, on a different battlefield — that of poverty, trauma, and social neglect in conflict-hit Manipur.

In a region still recovering from waves of unrest, Manongba has become a beacon of hope, quietly transforming lives. Through his tireless efforts, 35 widows—many of them survivors of violence and conflict—have been empowered to run small-scale businesses, from weaving and food processing to home-based retail. With access to training, seed capital, and mentorship, they’ve transitioned from grief and dependence to dignity and self-reliance.
Equally powerful is his work in education. Taking full financial and logistical responsibility for 60 underprivileged children, Lt Col Manongba has ensured that they not only remain in school but also dream bigger. From uniforms and school fees to emotional guidance, he and his small team have become a surrogate support system for these children, many of whom have lost their parents or faced displacement.
His deep understanding of discipline and leadership—honed in the Army—has helped him establish a model of community-led rehabilitation in parts of Manipur that are often overlooked by mainstream institutions. Working without much fanfare or media attention, his impact has been quietly growing, village by village.
Recognizing this selfless service, the Indian Army honored Lt Col (Retd) Manongba with the ‘Veteran Achiever Award’ during the prestigious Army Day Parade held in Pune. The award was presented by the Chief of Army Staff, General Upendra Dwivedi, who praised Manongba’s post-retirement contributions as “a living example of how soldiers continue to serve the nation even after the battlefield is behind them.”
“This award is not mine alone, but belongs to every child I’ve walked to school, every widow who dared to start again, and every soldier who believes service never ends,” Manongba said with quiet humility.
In a state that has seen hardship and volatility, his story stands as a powerful reminder: a soldier's duty is not confined to the borders. Sometimes, the true battlefield lies within the heart of society—and it takes men like Lt Col Manongba to lead from the front.
His work continues to inspire not just Manipur but the entire nation, reminding us that real strength lies in compassion, and true leadership in service.