Imphal, Nov 30 (DIPR) : Forests and Environment Minister Thounaojam Shyamkumar today said Manipur could have been an unknown place for the world if there was no Sangai in Keibul Lamjao. Lauding the locals for the successful and peaceful celebration of the festival at Keibul Lamjao, he said it is the right place to celebrate the festival.
Th Shyamkumar was speaking at the closing function of the Manipur Sangai Festival 2017 held at the YICCL Ground, Keibul Lamjao, Bishnupur district organised by the Forest Department and Tourism Department.
He said he was happy and satisfied that the Manipur Sangai Festival 2017 was successfully organised at various locations, including at the Keibul Lamjao, which is the habitat of Sangai. Large number of tourists from outside the State are attracted to the festival just because of the Sangai, he added.
Giving assurance to the local people, Shyamkumar said in future the festival will be celebrated on a larger platform, as celebrated in other areas of Imphal. Observing that there is need for 5-star hotel in the area to accommodate visitors during the festival, he also stressed upon the need for promotion of rural tourism.
He said that Chief Minister N Biren Singh has been working for the welfare of the people understanding their sentiments. That is why he gave permission to Forest Department to extend the Curtain Raiser to another 10 days for the people of Keibul Lamjao, he added.
Stating that the people of Manipur are proud of Bishnupur district due to its historical background, he said it should be of immense pride for the locals that the President of the country visited the district.
He said it is unfortunate that a Kharsha (Hog deer) was killed during the time of the festival and when people are working to save wildlife. Stating that the locals of Keibul Lamjao and the surrounding areas have major responsibility to protect the Sangai, he called upon the citizens to contribute in saving the wildlife of the State.
Th Shyamkumar also lauded the locals of Keibul Lamjao and the leaders for their contribution in saving the wildlife. He also appreciated the locals for the peaceful celebration of the festival.
T Robindro Singh, MLA Thanga AC and Chairman of PDA, M Asnikumar Singh, Vice Chairman, MIDA Manipur, K Angami, PCCF and HoFF and other dignitaries attended the function.
Source: The Sangai Express
