IMPHAL, May 9: Chief Minister N Biren launched the official website for the coming first ever Shirui festival, which will begin from May 16, and also announced that the State Government is planning to expand the scope of the Loktak day celebrations and to organise Sangai festival at Keibul Lamjao.
N Biren launched www.shiruifestival.gov.in, the official website of the Shirui festival at CM Secretariat today afternoon.
Speaking to media persons, N Biren said that Shirui festival has been organised to promote Shirui Lily, which is not found anywhere else and to promote tourism adding that necessary steps would be taken up to organise the festival at the National level next year.
Replying to a query regarding plans on declaring the Lily’s habitat as a National Park, the Chief Minister said that the State Government does not have a plan yet to declare the place as a National Park, but expressed optimism that the extremely positive response from the people regarding the first Shirui festival means the people would gladly welcome any steps to convert the area into a National park.
He also stated that the State Government is taking up steps to promote the State bird, Nongin, just like the Shirui Lily.
He also said that Thailand would take part in the Shirui festival adding that various dances and performances from the various North Eastern States would also be shown at the festival.
N Biren continued that Rs 50 crore has been added for renovations and development of the State’s ancient and historical structures and monuments, and a total of 50 places including the likes of Kangkhui Sarung, Anal Khullen, Koubru, Ingourok Mahadev, Pan Santhong etc would be renovated. He also stated that a guest house would also be constructed at Dzuko valley.
Chief Minister Biren pointed out that a team led by Works Minister Th Biswajit which includes Health and Education Commissioners has left for Tamenglong today to inspect the construction of Mini Secretariat and the 50 bedded district hospital. He further conveyed that the condition of Jiri road has improved and steps are being taken up to convert the bridges to RCC adding that tender process has been finalised.
Source: The Sangai Express
