IMPHAL, November 30: To develop a state needs peace and harmony, without which it will be difficult to step forward and will lead into chaos, said Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh.
The statement was made today at Bheigyachandra Open Air Theatre (BOAT) at the closing function of the 10-day long Sangai Festival which commenced on November 21. The closing function featured various cultural shows.
Addressing the gathering Chief Minister appealed to all the organizations to join hands together with the government for better development. The government always welcomes to have a talk for solution and bring peace, harmony and prosperity in the state, further he added that the Sangai Festival is an event which can promote the state.
He continued that even though the state is small it has unity in diversity and rich heritage, the tourist from and outside the country are attracted to the natural beauty of the state, and added that the entrepreneurs from outside the state and country are willing to trade in the state, however, the government cannot provided the ideal conditions of law and order, connectivity and resources of the state.
The tourist are attracted to the natural views but not the artificial set up, but state has its own natural beauty, he said and added that various people are involve in the extermination of Sangai which have reduced their numbers and now it has become an endangered animal.
Deputy Chief Minister, Gaikhangam said that the Manipur Sangai Festival was started in the year 2008 under the name Manipur Tourisim Festival which showcased the talents of the people and apart from the festival exhibition and sports were conducted.
Delegates and participants from outside the state and country participated in the festival and expressed hopes that the attendance for the festival will increase further, he said and added that it is also a platform for promoting unity in diversity.
He further lauded the state for its rich flora and fauna, culture and tradition.
Additional Secretary, Ministry of Tourism, Girish Shankar said that the state has rich culture and many tourist spots. Every year International Tourism Festival are held in the country and on this regard also urged the Tourism Minister to hold such events in the state.
The Ministry have sanctioned various funds for the development of tourism in the state and hope the state also covered, he said and continued that the tourist are attracted by the beauty of the state so the government have to take initiative in building places for settling of those tourist.
He further wished to make a grand success of the coming Sangai Festival 2014.
During the festival member of North East Council, Ministry of DONER Madan Prasad Bezbaruah, former DGP M.K. Das, MLAs, Minister and other officials attended the closing function.