IMPHAL, February 18: Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh has announced to establish a new policy to further developed the art and culture as well as to encourage the artists in the state.
The Chief Minister made the announcement during the inauguration ceremony of the 29th All Manipur Drama Festival 2013-2014 held today at Maharaj Chandrakriti Auditorium, Department of Art and Culture, Palace Compound organised by Manipur State Kala Akademy.
Addressing the gathering Chief Minister divulged that the Art and Culture departments has set in motion its initiative to frame the policy taking into consideration the interest of the artists who have contributed enough in the field.
“Art & culture and sports have brought laurels and fame for Manipur. Encouragement in the form of incentives and availing other benefits to the artists and others who have been working relentlessly in this field is inevitable”, said Ibobi.
The Chief Minister also expressed his desire that the playwright to give more emphasis to bring development in the state besides peace and prosperity and about the crime against women and children and their safety.
Manipur is home to different ethnic communities having their own colourful traditions and customs, maintained the Chief Minister adding that this beautiful diverse culture of Manipur making it renowned in other part of the globe.
He further claimed that the theatre artist also played vital role in entertaining as well as educating the public and extended his wish to all the participants to perform at their best and in making the festival a grand success.
Padmashree Sangeet Natak Akademi Fellow, H Kanhailal in his speech, while briefing on the festival which has been organised annually, informed that this year the festival is dedicated to noted playwright Late GC Tongbra and many of his plays will be performed by different groups during the festival.
He urged the authority concerned to open a special department in Manipur University for the scholars who are well qualified in art and culture to ensure that they get their due support and platforms to further their career globally.
Marking the inaugural function of the festival the participants and dignitaries offered a rich floral tribute at the portrait of (L) GC Tongbra. Altogether 20 different theatre groups have come to participate during the festival.