IMPHAL, November 30: One day Manipur will be on the World Tourism map, Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh expressed confidently at the closing day function of the 10-day long Manipur Sangai Festival 2015 today.
Tourism in one of the sectors which is a talk priority of the government, he said.
Although it is important to develop infrastructure to promote the State as a world tourism destination, it is also crucial and important to promote peace in the land, the Chief Minister said further.
The closing function of the festival was held at the Bheigyachandra Open Air Theartre amidst much fanfare and a huge gathering.
Ibobi said the State is yet to develop infrastructure to meet international level and the State is taking up various projects based on priority.
Expressing happiness over the peaceful and successful conduct of the festival which showcases the rich culture and traditions, dance forms, indigenous games and the scenic beauty of Manipur before the outside world and promotes tourism in the State, the Chief Minister said it is essential to promote and encourage peace among the different communities of the State.
Urging the people to promote peace, the Chief Minister said it is evident that peace in the society and the hospitality of the people of the State will only attract more tourist inflow into the State and eventually develop tourism which will improve the financial status of the State.
The Chief Minister further lauded the cooperation of the people for the successful conduct of the festival and said Manipur is considered a miniature India with different communities residing together.
In order to promote tourism, we still need to encourage peace to provide assurance of security to the domestic as well as foreign tourists visiting the State. If the tourists are welcomed and treated with hospitality, they will carry back warm memories of the State which will promote tourism, he added.
Deputy Chief Minister Gaikhangam also elaborated on the importance of the Sangai Festival and said the festival is an important festival carrying the message of peace and love among the people.
Elaborating further he said the State-level Sangai Festival which celebrates both the hills and the valley unitedly is today attracting both national and international tourists.
The function was also attended by Manipur Legislative Assembly Speaker Th Lokeshwar Singh, parliamentary secretary Tourism and YAS M Prithiviraj Singh as guests of honour.
Artistes of the Jawaharlal Nehru Manipur Dance Academy also presented the “Machu Taret ki Masak mangal’ dance choreographed by P Dhanajit Singh of the academy.