IMPHAL, November 6: The twelve day long ‘1st State Level Aquarium Exhibition-cum-flower show’ concluded today at Manipur Science Aquarium, DM College campus.
The programme was organised by the Manipur Science and Technology Council, Imphal in association with the International Plants Grower Association (IPGA) and Aquarium and Floriculture Entrepreneur.
The closing function today was attended by UC Laishram, Director, Department of Science and Technology, Ng Brajakumar, Principal, DM College of Commerce and Th Surendranath, Director, Manipur Science and Technology Council, Imphal as chief guest, president and guest of honour respectively.
Giving the keynote address, one of the organizer informed that the state level exhibition was organized with an objective to promote aquarium and floriculture entrepreneurship and as well as to help improve the Manipur Science and Technology Council.
He further said that during the 12 day long exhibition more than 56 species of fish were put on display and among it 20 species were indigenous fishes of the state. 150 varieties of flowers were also displayed. The exhibition attracted more than 400 people every day, he added.
Speaking at the function as chief guest, UC Laishram expressed his happiness for organising such type of exhibition in the state.
He further expressed his willingness to find out more about Tokay Gecko, that whether it is an endangered species or not. If it is not then it should be put up for sale by issuing licenses to boost the State economy, he said.
It may be plants or animals which are found in Manipur are increasingly demanded by other states and countries and one of them is Tokay Gecko which has high medicinal values, he informed.
It has become one of the most attractive items of many interested buyers from outside the State and the fact is now well known by the people, he said.
He suggested that instead of imposing ban on selling either medicinal plants or animals available in Manipur it is better to promote them and allow selling after issuing proper licenses if they do not fall under the category of endangered groups.
Ng Brajakumar, who attended the function as guest of honour, said that the 12 day long state exhibition is the first of its kind in the state and it was a great success for the organiser in showcasing the indigenous fishes and plants which are very rare these days and further lauded all the participants for preserving the indigenous species of fishes and plants.