SEACO celebrates 8th Foundation Day
Stop imitating other's culture, promote own: Karam Shyam
Source: The Sangai Express / DIPR
Imphal, August 05 2018:
CAF & PD, Revenue Minister Karam Shyam expressed that there are 2 entities which drive humans to attain true development and become civilized.
Describing the two entities as - "external and internal civilization", he said external refers to technological advancement while internal refers to richness of culture, religion, moral values.
"It is only when these two (external and internal) move in parallel, real civilization occurs," he said.
The Minister was speaking as chief guest at the 8th Foundation Day of South East Asia Cultural Organization (SEACO) at Thangmeiband, Thau Ground today.
Drawing attention on the issue of preserving Meitei identity, Karam Shyam said: "If we respect our old traditions, culture, religion and customs, our identity will never perish and stand the test of time".
One main reason for deterioration of our 'original' culture and customs in this modern world of media and computers is the trend of "imitating" others, he observed.
He also cited the example of Vice President of India M Venkaiah Naidu who wore his local traditional attires when attending UN functions.
"We should feel proud of speaking our native language," he said and appealed the public to stop imitating others culture so as to promote/survive indigenous culture and become more independent and strong.
"Criticizing others for their culture and tradition without valid reasons is not a good trend," the Minister pointed out.
He appreciated SEACO volunteers for shouldering responsibility of bringing positive and better social changes and assured financial assistance in recognition of their efforts.
Acknowledging that the State is up against multiple issues, special guest of the function, ML A Salam Raj en stated that the Government will not stand as 'silent spectators' in connection with burning issues of Framework Agreement/Naga Peace Talks, Border Pillar dispute and MU impasse.
He assured that the Government will work solely in the interest of the people.
Special invitees of the function expressed their views ILP and other related current issues.
Various leaders and members of CSOs including UCM, Kanglei Ima Lup, Kangleipak Students' Association, IPAK and PANDAM were felicitated at the function.
The gathering observed 2 minutes silence in honour of the Maichous.
Thongam Loijingkhombi Chanu and Rosy Heisnam presented cultural song as part of the function, MLA Lamsang AC Salam Rajen Singh, president SEACO Head Office Kolomcha Achoubi Khuman, advisor SEACO Head Office Akham Langol, Chief Editor Kangla Pao Pukhrambam Ibochou and managing director Social Agility for Valued Economy (SAVE) attended the function as presidium members.