Governor kicks off Shirui Lily Week
Source: The Sangai Express / Mungchan Zimik
Ukhrul, May 15 2014 :
Governor VK Duggal today inaugurated the Shirui Lily Week and mini Marathon Race under the theme 'Burn Calories: Not Forest at Shirui village ground.
Attired in Tangkhul traditional dress, the affable Governor opened his speech with Tangkhul words "Nathumli somiranu," meaning, God Bless You, amidst thunderous applause from the crowds.
The Governor underscored the need for proper scientific study on Shirui Lily�a rare and well known plant which is in the brink of extinction due to climate change� so that the flower could continue to thrive in its original habitat.
The Governor also expressed appreciation to the ICAR for taking up tissue culture of Shirui Lily which is anticipated to perpetuate the plant not only in its original habitat but also in laboratory conditions so that it does not become extinct.
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VK Duggal also said that the focus on global warming and climate change and its impact on the lily including remedial measures is laudable while adding that the Shirui Lily Week, if marketed properly could become a tourist attraction.
He wished greater awareness prevails and the lily is allowed to bloom to its grandeur while assuring possible assistance towards this end in his official capacity.
Tangkhul Naga Long (TNL) President Artax A Shimray urged budgetary allocation in the next National budget for the conservation and preservation of Shirui forest.
The Marathon Race under the theme Burn Calories not Forest was flagged off at TNL ground by TNL president Artax A Shimray prior to the Shirui Week inauguration.
As rainstorm played spoilsports during the course of the programme, the crowds gathered at the village community hall to see the end of the programme.
Traditional cuisines and beverages brewed at Shirui village were served during the programme.
Convenor of Shirui Lily Week Observance Committee (SLWOC), Mayopam Shangh in his welcoming speech, highlighted initiatives of the towards the protection and preservation of the State Flower, Shirui Lily while calling upon key stake holders of the State to join in their efforts.
The Shirui Lily Week will continue till May 21.The first lady of the State Madhu Duggal, Principal Secretary (Works) Ram Muivah; Secretary to the Governor, RK Nimai; Modak H Arvind, DC; DIG 10 Sector AR, Peeyush Pandey, Commdt 41 Assam Rifles Gaurav Bose, Worshang SDO, Ukhrul and Tangkhul social bodies' leaders attended the inauguration programme amongst others.
Ahead of the programme today, the Governor had arrived here yesterday and inspected the district hospital besides holding talks with officials of the district.