Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, June 08 2009:
Inter-State Bal Bhavan Children's Festival has been kicked off at Khuman Lampak Kangshang today.
Unfortunately, no children from outside the State is taking part in the festival.
The inaugural function of the children's festival organised by Social Welfare Department and which would continue till June 12, was graced by Youth Affairs and Sports Minister N Biren as chief guest and Chairperson of the Manipur State Commission for Women (MSCW) Dr Ch Jamini as functional president.
MSCW member Lhingjaneng Gangte, Social Welfare Director S Saratkumar and Government of Nagaland's OSD Kevito also attended the function as guests of honour.
Speaking at the occasion, Minister Biren expressed unhappiness over the non-response from others States to the invitation extended for participation in the festival.
Saying that the main reasons for the absence of children from other States was due to the prevailing law and order situation of Manipur, Biren called upon all to strive together towards improving the law and order situation.
S Saratkumar said that district level children festivals will be organised from next year.
Children selected from district level festivals would be allowed to participate in the State level children festival, he added.