Emergence of Study Hubs in Manipur Amid Ongoing Unrest
Growing Demand for Study Spaces in Manipur
Most of these reading hubs have sprouted in Imphal East, Imphal West and Kakching districts.
Imphal, June 28: In the midst of ongoing turmoil in Manipur, a significant number of students and job seekers have turned to privately-operated reading and study hubs over the past three years due to inadequate study environments at home.
Government-run libraries and those in educational institutions have limited operational hours and outdated facilities, which do not meet the needs of today’s learners and job aspirants.
This situation has prompted many candidates preparing for competitive exams, such as those conducted by the UPSC, to seek out these new reading and study spaces in their neighborhoods. These hubs provide quiet environments, extended hours, Wi-Fi access, and reliable power sources.
Moreover, individuals from joint or economically challenged families appreciate the privacy and focused atmosphere these reading hubs offer for effective studying and learning.
Following the COVID-19 pandemic and the ethnic violence that erupted in 2023, Manipur adapted to a new normal of online classes and remote work, which disrupted daily life and academic schedules, leading students and job seekers to explore alternative study options.
The ongoing conflict in the region is believed to have catalyzed the establishment of approximately 30 to 40 private reading halls and community libraries recently.
These study hubs charge monthly fees ranging from Rs 700 to Rs 1,200, providing curated seating arrangements in both indoor and outdoor settings. They also feature clean facilities, secure parking, and attached cafes or tiffin services. These venues serve not only as functional study spaces but also as creative hubs, hosting weekly events like writing workshops and poetry readings.
Most of these reading hubs have emerged in the districts of Imphal East, Imphal West, and Kakching.
L Ramachandra, an engineering graduate from Sagolband Nepra Menjor, frequently visits ‘Oasis’, a well-known reading and co-working space in the capital. Like him, many job seekers are utilizing these reading spaces for exam preparation.
“A few years back, there were only a handful of reading spaces in Imphal,” remarked Naorem Ramayi, a software developer who now operates a reading hall named ‘The Intellect Space’ on Uripok-Kangchup Road in central Imphal.
“Although there is no concrete data, the number of candidates from the State passing the UPSC exams seems to be rising, thanks to the development of a coaching ecosystem similar to that of Delhi,” noted Sonny Chungkham, who manages Oasis.
According to an official from the Keishampat Reading Space, most visitors at these hubs, which typically accommodate 20-40 individuals, are preparing for NEET and other national competitive examinations.
In addition to these reading hubs, Imphal has also seen a surge in independent bookstores, pop-up book stalls, and literary events.