Sirarakhong Chilly Festival :: Manipur is a land of resources: Jayantakumar
Source: The Sangai Express / DIPR

Imphal, August 23 2019: Art & Culture Minister L Jayantakumar Singh has stated that Manipur is a land of resources.

The Minister was speaking as chief guest at the second day of the 10th Sirarakhong Hathei Phanit, Chilli Festival.

"Our unexplored resources available in the State need to be utilized at the optimum level.

We can apply new scientific methods of cultivation for raising crops and food grains yield", Jayantakumar said.

He said that the famous chilli of Sirarakhong need to be promoted to a higher level.

Sirarakhong Chilly Festival :: Manipur is a land of resources: Jayantakumar

For this, farmers of Sirarakhong need to imbibe a healthy sense of competition.

Jayantakumar also maintained that the soil of Manipur is suitable for growing aromatic and medicinal plants.

"Our farmers can be trained and made aware of the values of locally available medicinal plants of high value.

Saplings will also be provided free of cost to the farmers by the Government.

Marketing facilities will also be arranged," he added.

The Minister also suggested Sirarakhong farmers for mixed and double cropping so that their income is augmented.

He said that the beautiful landscape of the State also attracts tourists from outside.

Tourism is also a big industry which can generate revenue of the State.

What is required is proper planning and its implementation, he added.

Jayantakumar who is also in charge of Health and Family Welfare Department assured the people of Sirarakhong that the local PHSC will be upgraded to a Health and Wellness Centre during the current year.

He also urged the villagers to help promote the rich art and culture of the State.

He also expressed his desire for construction of a cultural complex in the area.

Speaking as guest of honour, AMWJU president Bijoy Kakchingtabam said that the popularity and uniqueness of Sirarakhong chilli has been growing day by day.

"We need to introduce the value of Sirarakhong chilli to the world as this unique chilli variety is only found in Sirarakhong and its adjoining areas", Bijoy said.

Account Officer of Horticulture & Soil Conservation Department Nongthombam Loyalakpa also attended the function as guest of honour.

Maniwood Club members, village chiefs, villagers and others also attended the function.