Museum important cultural institution: Th Basanta
Source: Chronicle News Service / DIPR
Imphal, September 23 2022:
The 53rd foundation day celebration of Manipur State Museum cum prize distribution ceremony of the 'Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav' Weekly Quiz Competition was organised jointly by All India Radio (AIR), Imphal Regional News Unit and Department of Art and Culture at the museum premises on Friday.
Speaking at the function as chief guest, education minister Th Basantakumar Singh stressed that Manipur State Museum needs to be maintained and kept updated as it is the most important cultural institution of the state.
The minister also elaborated that history, culture, language, etc., all are important though it is culture and sports of Manipur that put it apart from the rest.
"Museum reflects the art, culture, heritage and everything that is important.
We can get an understanding of the culture of a country when we visit their respective museums," he added.
Th Basanta also conveyed that as the education minister, he feels the need to issue a compulsory order for the students to visit the museum so that they can appreciate the culture and heritage of Manipur and go beyond their textbooks.
He also said that education is not just reading, writing and being a topper but also imbibing wisdom, culture, good behaviours and trying to be a good human being.
The most important part of education is learning soft skills, how to respect elders and appreciate our culture.
Minister Basanta also suggested museum authorities to send a written application to the government so that the issues regarding shortage of staff and security may be taken care of.
He noted that the big museum with nine display halls is being run by only two staff and no security to guard it.
He also appreciated the museum authorities and staff for maintaining the museum very well in spite of staff shortage and other issues.
"There are priceless gold and other old historic artefacts in our state museum.
Art and culture subject is very close to my heart," he further said.
As a part of the programme, minister Basanta inaugurated the Temporary Exhibition of Gold & Rare Masterpieces of Manipur State Museum, distributed prizes to AIR, Imphal quiz competition winners and also released the 8th edition newsletter of the museum.
The programme was also attended by retired director (Art & Culture) Dr K Sobita Devi, Naoriya Pakhanglakpa MLA S Kebi Devi and AIR Imphal assistant director (News) Gin Gangte as president, guest of honour and special guest respectively.