State hawks tourism positives
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, September 27 2012:
Like in other parts of the world, World Tourism Day was celebrated today with Department of Tourism hosting the event at Hotel Imphal.
This year World Tourism Day is being celebrated on the theme "Tourism and Sustainable Energy: Powering Sustainable Development" .
As chief guest of the celebration, Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh emphasised on development of the tourism sector to boost the state's economy.
Noting that prevailing law and order situation is discouraging the industrial houses from investing in the State thereby hampering industrial development, Ibobi said in such a scenario tourism sector remains the only option to spur Manipur's socio-economic growth.
With Manipur facing financial problem for decades and unable to set-up large scale industries development of the tourism sector has become inevitable to propel the State to the path of development, he said and appealed to all to strive for restoration of peace in Manipur.
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Citing ongoing process for expansion of Tulihal (Imphal) Airport as a component of the Government's effort to promote tourism, he exuded confidence that once the airport is upgraded to an international airport Manipur will attract foreign as well as domestic tourists.
The Chief Minister also maintained that the ongoing efforts to provide regular power supply, adequate drinking water and improve transport and communication systems along with stabilising the law and order situation would further enhance development of the tourism sector.
Speaking on the occasion economist Prof N Mohendro Singh highlighted that development of tourism sector in a sustainable manner would boost employment generation in the region and thus solve the problem of youth unrest created by lack of employment opportunity.
Stating that tourism policy should be compatible with the Look East Policy, Prof Mohendro also suggested development of tourist spots such as parks to draw the attention of visitors.
Describing tourism as the lifeline for Manipur, Rural Development & Panchayati Raj Minister Francis Ngajokpa said that development of tourism sector entails contribution of every section of the society.
He also solicited constructive suggestions from all concerned to development tourism industry on a wider scale.
Tourism Commissioner Dr Rajesh Kumar and Director N Geoffrey also attended the event.