India: Church-organized Seminar Trains IDPs in riot-hit Manipur on Marketing Skills

The Diocesan Social Service Society (DSSS) of the archdiocese of Imphal, in the northeastern state of Manipur organized a two-day seminar on Marketing Skills on August 27–28, 2025, at the Divine Glory Retreat Centre, Zoumun, Churachandpur District. Hosed in collaboration with the Italian Bishop Conference, the program was especially designed for Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) affected by ethnic violence in the region.

Mr. Thomas, Program Coordinator, welcomed the participants and explained the purpose of the training, urging everyone to make the most of the opportunity for personal growth and the welfare of society. Rev. Fr. Thomas Praful Kerketta, VC, Director of the Centre, opened the session with a prayer and emphasized the Church’s mission in skill development and empowerment. 

A total of 54 participants, including church leaders and elders, many of whom lost their homes during the violence, attended. They are currently living in shelters built by the Vincentian Congregation under the leadership of Very Rev. Fr. Bobby Thomas, former Director of the Retreat Centres at Maram and Zoumun. 

The sessions were led by Mr. Khamsanglian, entrepreneur and guest faculty of SBI-RSETI, Pearsonmun. Drawing inspiration from Deuteronomy 28:1–14, he underlined honesty and obedience as keys to success. He contrasted Moses’ forty years of skill training with the brevity of this seminar, stressing the lifelong importance of developing marketable skills. 

Mr. Khamsanglian encouraged participants to consider animal husbandry and agricultural farming as viable livelihoods, highlighting the region’s fertile land for milk and fruit production. He explained that marketing is not a one-time effort but a continuous process requiring long-term planning. Sharing real-life success stories, he inspired participants to apply the skills they gained to achieve sustainable growth.

Participants were enthusiastic in their feedback. Mrs. Sarah Suannuam expressed her interest in pig farming, noting that the practical training on measuring live pigs gave her confidence to start a small business. 

Throughout the program, DSSS provided participants with training materials, refreshments, and lunch. The seminar concluded with words of gratitude from Mr. Thomas Paupi and a closing prayer by Catechist George Kakai, encouraging everyone to put their newly learned skills into practice for the good of their families and community.