Fitting tributes paid to Gambhir Singh : CM stresses on hills-valley bond
Source: The Sangai Express / DIPR
Imphal, January 09 2023:
"We are here today as a society and as a State because of our forefathers," Chief Minister N Biren Singh said today, highlighting the heroic efforts of Maharaj Gambhir Singh, Meidingu Narsingh and Sana Herachandra to drive off the Burmese and end the Seven Years Devastation.
N Biren was speaking as the chief guest of the 189th death anniversary of Maharaj Gambhir Singh held at the late king's memorial located at Langthabal.
The function was organized by Manipur State Archaeology, Department of Arts and Culture.
Stressing on the importance of history, Chief Minister N Biren said, "We cannot disassociate ourselves from history.
Historical statues, memorial parks, museums, etc, tell stories of the forefathers of the land".
They remind the present generations of their forefathers and their deeds, strengthening the feeling of Nationalism, he added highlighting that Union Home Minister Amit Shah had inaugurated some important projects in the State including the Kangla Nongpok Thong, Polo Statue at Marjing and Olympian Park apart from hoisting the National flag at INA Headquarters at Moirang.
He further spoke On the significance and importance of opening of the Kangla Nongpok Thong and expressed his belief that it will bring more peace, prosperity and unity in the State.
"We should always remember that evil deed of the people of the valley will impact the hills and vice-versa", Biren said, highlighting the unbreakable bond between the hills and the valley in the State.
Biren also expressed the need to have a clear concept and understanding of the land's history, beliefs and data to educate people from outside.
He further encouraged historians and researchers to publish articles on history based on truth and facts.
Speaking on the issue of illegal drugs in the State, the Chief Minister said it is not the time to remain silent, but to be very vigilant against illegal drug business.
Stressing on the Government's action on the issue, the Chief Minister strongly expressed the need to leave behind a strong and healthy society for the future generations.
He appealed to the people to stop poppy cultivation and illegal drug business in the State.
"Our forefathers had guarded our land and it is our collective responsibility to safeguard this land", he said.
In a brief speech, MLA Keirao A/C L Rameshwor Meetei spoke on the dangers of drug abuse and further stressed on the need to support the War on Drugs campaign to uproot the drug menace from the State.
As a part of the function, the Chief Minister led in offering floral tributes to the portraits and statues of Maharaj Gambhir Singh, Meidingu Narasingh and Sana Herachandra.
Other highlights of the function included a guard of honour, gun salute, sounding of the last post by a contingent of Manipur Rifles, obeisance to Dhop Pala performance, tarpon offerings, and inauguration of a cafeteria by the Chief Minister.
The function was also attended by MP Maharaj Leishemba Sanajaoba, MLAs, DGP P Doungel, officials and locals.