Source: Hueiyen News Service
Imphal, September 27, 2009:
State Tourism Minister TN Haokip today observed that bigger underground organisations of the state are not posing an obstacle to the developmental works of tourism in the state while smaller underground groups are incessantly causing the impediment of tourism development works.
Speaking as the chief guest on the occasion of the observance of World Tourism Day today, under the aegis of the State Tourism department, at the auditorium of Hotel Imphal here, TN Haokip said, tourism is an industry which can generate employments to large number of unemployed people.
It is like golden-egg laying hen which can also boost the economy of the state.
He noted that the state cannot enjoy the opportunities and benefits offer by the tourism industry because the people prefer to exterminate the 'hen which lays golden eggs.
TN Haokip said that bigger militant groups are not posing a threat to the development of tourism in the state but it is getting their blessing.
He further said, lesser known militant groups are posing threat persistently to the development of tourism industry in the state.
He urged all concerned to contribute for the development of tourism industry in the state which can give impetus to the state economy.
The observance function was graced by State Tourism Commissioner BB Sharma as the president while MLA and MTDC Chairman T Manga Vaiphei was the guest of honour.
The resource persons were Dr RK Ranjan, Director of Academic Staff College, MU and Pradip Phanjoubam, editor of Imphal Free Press.
BB Sharma observed that the economy of the state can be enhanced greatly through tourism sector as the state has enough tourism potentials.
He said the state will attract large numbers of tourists if the people show hospitality to them.
Law and order condition of the state should be improved in order to boost tourism industry.
Speaking as the resource person, Dr RK Ranjan said the state should frame a broad tourism policy in order to develop tourism in the state.
The state has many places for setting up as tourists spots.
The government can develop various tourists spots in rural areas as it doesnt cause involvement of heavy infrastructures.
Against the backdrop of Look East Policy and Trans-Asian Highway Project, Dr Ranjan said, the people need to change their attitude in order to develop tourism industry in the state.
Tourism spots in Tamenglong and Churachandpur districts are yet to be explored.
He also pointed out that even as Ningthoukhong in Bishnupur district and Khurkhul are identified as rural tourists spots, it is not realised in reality till date.
MLA Manga Vaiphei said promoting tourism in the state is not an easy task.
Observing that Manipur is a pleasant land, he said the people are appalling.
He also said the people need to give a good think over it in order to develop tourism in the state.
Cash award was also given to participants of the quiz competition on the occasion.
A cultural programme was also displayed on the occasion.