IMPHAL, December 4: Terming the Sangai Festival organisation a grand success, State deputy Chief Minister Gaikhangam has expressed gratitude to the Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his presence in the closing function of the festival.
He was speaking to media persons this late evening at his official residence.
He said the Prime Minister had shared valuable words with the people of Manipur in his speech.
The deputy Chief Minister exuded confidence that the PM will take up positive actions considering the needs of the State, and on the basis of the memorandum submitted to him by the Chief Minister, Okram Ibobi Singh.
Meanwhile, in view of the threat given by the United Naga Council to boycott the State sponsored Orange Festival to be held at Tamenglong District headquarters on December 9, the deputy CM has appealed to all concerned to cooperate with the government in organising the festival.
He said the festival is meant for the welfare of the people, particularly for the orange growers of the district before adding that the proposed boycott is against the interest of not only the farmers but is also anti-development.
We should support and encourage the festival so that the economic potential of the farmers gets a boost, he added.
`As we know our orange has a unique flavour and taste different from others oranges found in parts of the country. We must be proud of it`, he said.
He highlighted that the theme of the festival is `Orange for unity and prosperity`. It will show the unity and integrity of hills and valley peoples which will be participated by peoples from all walks of life, he said.
However, he assured that enough security arrangements will be made for successful conduct of the festival. The level of peoples`™ participation will decide the effectiveness of the boycott, he added.