IMPHAL, September 27: Like in the rest of the world, Manipur also celebrated the ‘World Tourism Day’ today as different organizations and associations joined hands to promote tourism in the State.
The day was observed at the Santhei natural park, Andro organised by the State Tourism Department.
The observation was attended by Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh as chief guest, parliamentary secretary Tourism, Youth Affairs and Sports M Prithiviraj as president and local MLA Th Shyamkumar, additional chief secretary O Nabakishore and retd IAS and consultant of the State government RK Nimai as guests of honor.
Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Minister said in order to attract tourists to the State, we should first ensure peace to prevail and make it safe and secure.
He said the people should also support the government’s initiative to bring solution and peace by way of conducting talks whenever there is any misunderstanding among the different communities residing in the State.
Stating that tourism will bring much improvement to the financial condition of the State, the Chief Minister also assured to take up all steps to develop tourism in the State.
The Chief Minister also announced to help develop Andro as a tourist spot.
Meanwhile, the Manipur Tourism Forum also initiated a mass rally under the theme ‘walk-run-ride for tourism’ which was flagged off from Khuman Lampak by the Chief Minister as part of the day’s observation.
The inaugural function was also attended by parliamentary secretary Tourism, Youth Affairs and Sports M Prithiviraj, additional chief secretary O Nabakishore, secretary of Tourism Nidhi Mani Triparthi, Tourism director Shyamlal Poonia, Education secretary H Deleep, president of Manipur Tourism Forum Dr Th Dhabali, MD of Shija Hospitals and Research Institute Dr Kh Palin and other government officials took part in the ceremony.
The Manipur Tourism Forum also bestowed ‘Media Fellowship Award’ to six media persons of the State.
Moirangthem Rustum of the Sangai Express, Meisnam Nongpoknganba of Sanaleibak, Thongam Premchand of Poknapham, Grace Jajo of Imphal Free Press, Kshetri Meghajit of Naharolgi Thoudang and Asem Babycha of Hueiyen Lanpao were awarded with the fellowship award.
The observation was endorsed by various organization like the Manipur Horse Riding and Polo Association, Horse Riding (Pana), All Manipur Football Association, Manipur Institute of Management Studies, MU, Manipur Mountaineering and Trekking Association, Babina Diagnostic, Classic Group of Hotels, Shija Hospital and Research Institute, Manipur Cycle Club, Cube Ten, Green Revolution Society, Manipur Tourism Development Society, KB enterprises ,Royal Riders Manipur, Palliative Society, NEST Advertising, MAMBA, Wilderness and Adventures, Seven Sisters Holidays, Kha Manipur College, All Manipur Gymnasium Welfare Association, Communique Concerns, Sports Academy and film personalities of the State and the rally culminated at the Kangla where various cultural program was conducted.
