How rescue of Kuki students turned into board exam lifeline
On the night of February 15-16, 2026, 51 Kuki students, some just 12 years old, had to be evacuated overnight from their school in Manipur after fresh violence broke out nearby.
Thanks to a tense rescue by Assam Rifles and local negotiators, at least 18 of them can now sit for their crucial Class 10 and 12 board exams.
Board exams amid violence
The ongoing ethnic clashes in Manipur have displaced over 14,000 schoolchildren, led to about 96 schools being repurposed for relief and related uses, and left many teenagers without proper classes or support.
With more than 250 lives lost and no peace deal in sight, students are struggling to focus on studies while dealing with trauma and constant uncertainty.
This story is a stark reminder that for many young people here, just getting an education has become a daily challenge.