IMPHAL, November 27: As part of the ongoing Sangai festival, a one day indigenous boat race was held today at the Takmu Water Sports complex, Loktak.
The said competition was organised by Manipur Mountaineering and Trekking Association (MMTA) under the aegis of state Tourism department and graced by Parliamentary Secretary- Tourism and YAS, M Prithiviraj, Director, Institute of Cooperative Management, Dr Kh Somorendro Singh and Superintendent of Police, Bishnupur Th Radheshyam as chief guest, president and guest of honour respectively.
The race was categorised into senior and sub-junior with nearly 28 competitors rowing for the top spot in their respective categories.
The first three spots of both categories were awarded along with some consolation prizes.
MMTA members also demonstrated water-skiing, sail boating and wind surfing to the tourists and visitors of the ongoing Sangai fest during the day.
Delivering his keynote address, president of MMTA L Surjit said that this is first ever for the Sangai Festival to offer local boat race competition as an adventure sports item.
He further maintained that such events would help in preserving indigenous culture enrooted amongst the people.
He further stressed that such competition would give more positive outcome in future for broadening the tourism horizon if tourism department could encourage and motivate with such competitions in the future.
The MMTA president further expressed his gratitude towards Loktak Development Authority for contributing a motor-boat to promote adventure sports in the state.
Parliamentary Secretary- Tourism and YAS, M Prithiviraj has stated that the state has lots of potentials in the tourism sector though the state has limited resources.
He further added that law and order situations in the state have considerably improved. He then maintained that for attracting more outside tourist, it would be imperative for the state to show and proved its unique hospitality.
He further said that for attracting more tourists in the state, it would be also important to performed adventure sports throughout the year in the state.