IMPHAL, April 9: Manipur Governor V Shanmuganathan today inaugurated the three-day long 2nd Flower Festival at Pfukhro, Mao Gate.
The festival is being organised by the Senapati District Administration and Mao Flower Growers` Association in collaboration with Department of Horticulture and Soil Conservation, Government of Manipur and Department of Commerce and Industries, Government of Manipur.
Speaking at the function as the chief guest the Governor stated that the Central government has shown special attention for development of the North East, whether it be in economic sector, transportation, connectivity, electricity, infrastructure etc.
He further lauded the organisers and the flower growers of taking the initiative for the promotion of floriculture.
He assured that he will render all possible help for the promotion of growing flowers to make a beautiful State.
He added that there is a need of a collective effort to make Mao a specific place in every field.
Chief secretary O Nabakishore urged to grow more flowers which might enhance the not just the beauty of the place but the environment also.
He highlighted that most of the flora and faunas are endangered due to the environment issue.
He further lauded the organisers and well-wishers for organising such a festival in the State.
The chief secretary also promised to promote the festival in his own capacity.
Speaking to this IFP reporter, a floriculturist who identified herself as Nisa said this is her second time participating in the festival.
She said she has floriculture farm since some 10-15 years back.
She said as her farm is quite fertile like most areas in Mao, she is able to earn comfortably and meet the expenses of her family.
Nisa also said that she is able to export her flowers to not just Imphal but to the neighbouring States.
She added she had never taken any scheme or loan from the government to start her farm.
She said she has around 25-30 varieties of flowers in her farm, but she is displaying just about 20 varieties in the festival.
Another stall owne, Catherine said her floriculture farm could make a turnover of Rs 1 lakh per annum.
She said she also supply flowers to the neighbouring States.
Catherine said people of Mao are flower lovers and they plant flowers at their homes.
The place is fertile and the climate is suitable for most varieties of flowers, she added.
Convenor of the organising committee, Kajichew said the main aim for organising the festival is to encourage the people to preserve, promote and develop the gift of nature.
The festival will also bring the flower growers closer, he said adding that the theme for this year’s festival is “Colors of Spring”.
At the start of the formal function, Governor V Shanmuganathan had unveiled a monolith at Mao Island.