Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, January 31 2010:
Health Minister Ph Parijat has called upon the people to strive for preservation of the age-old culture and tradition so as to prevent dilution of the indigenous identity from the onslaught of globalization.
Speaking as the chief guest at the inaugural programme of the 10th Maichou Ningsing thouram (scholars' commemoration) at GM Hall today, the Minister reminded that language, religious practices and tradition determines ethnicity of a community.
Asserting that every single individual need to contribute their mite in the preservation of culture and tradition of their respective community, Parijat described as worrisome increasing dilution of the cultural heritage of Manipuris owing to rapid invasion of alien culture.
He also cautioned that failure to grasp threat posed by relatively new faith would be disastrous in the long run as possibility of the indigenous people losing their own identity in their own land cannot be ruled out.
The Minister also stressed on respecting religious belief and practice of all the communities settled in the State so as to promote peace in the society.
Delivering the presidential address, MLA E Suraj said under no circumstance should religious practice and tradition of a community infringe on the interest and sentiment of others.
In multi-ethnic society like Manipur there is strong need for exercising restrain and tolerance of one another's culture and tradition which would definite help in maintain peace and cordiality amongst various communities, the Congress legislator said.
Highlight of event include honouring Dr N Ibohalbi with the presentation of Culture Preservation Award, gifting walking sticks to 18 elderly citizens and felicitation of several individuals for their contribution in the preservation of the ethnic culture.
As resource persons, Editor of Aja Daily Valley Rose and women activist Rose Mangshi haokip delivered lectures on 'Tangkhul Culture in Manipur' and 'Kuki Culture in Manipur' respectively.