Andro MLA treasures sports-centric Yaoshang festival
Source: Chronicle News Service
Imphal, March 06 2023:
Andro MLA Th Shyamkumar has stated that it is a good sign for the future of the society to see the Yaoshang festival being transformed into a sports festival in every part of the State.
He made the statement while speaking as chief guest of the inaugural function of the 12th Kanglei Mega Sports Festival, 2023 organised by Kangleipak Students' Association (KSA) at Mapal Kangjei bung on Monday.
The annual sports festival began after collecting the sacred fire from Kangla.
Presided over by KSA president Sukham Bidyananda, the inaugural function was also attended by Kshetrigao AC MLA Sheikh Noorul Hassan as guest of honour.
In his speech, MLA Shyamkumar recounted that the Yaoshang festival in the past used to be associated with the youth abusing drugs, eve-teasing and throwing water/dirty water onto the public, which is not good for the society.
As such, the transformation of the festival into a sports festival, being organised in a disciplined manner in every locality of the state is a positive sign for everyone concerned, he expressed, and urged for all to help make the festival more meaningful and attractive.
He continued that Manipur is heavily affected by the drug menace, which is now threatening its very existence.
Thus, to prevent the youth from this evil, their focus should be shifted towards sports, he asserted, while lauding KSA for organising the mega sports event and assured of extending all possible help wherever needed.
Despite being a small state, Manipur is known for its rich culture and sporting prowess, which is a matter of pride for the state, the MLA stated.
Speaking on the occasion, Sheikh Noorul Hassan remarked that it is unfortunate to see the unity among the communities being challenged and stressed the need for a united Manipur.
He said that time has come for all concerned to work together to bring about a developed and progressive society, while emphasising the need for students to cultivate patriotic spirit and make their level best contribution for the welfare of the state.
He then urged KSA to take on the role of bringing about a society which enjoys the full benefits of a democracy.