Facelift for G20 event
- The People's Chronicle Editorial :: February 10, 2023 -

CHIEF minister N Biren personally taking stock of the preparations for the ensuing events related to the G20 Summit in the state underscores determination of the government to present the state in a palatable manner and enhance its profile in the tourism sector before the summit delegates.

However, it is regrettable that the CM had to instruct officials concerned to accelerate the summit-related works for Manipur was enlisted among the few host states shortly after India wasxleclared to take over the G20 presidency?

In view of the delegates scheduled to visit existing and newly developed tourist destinations such as the Sangai Ethnic Park at Moirang Khunou and Loktak Inland Water Transport Complex at Sendra in Bishnupur district, it's obvious that these locations would be prioritised as the government can't afford to miss the best chance of hard-selling the state's tourism potential before the official representatives of the G20 countries as well as from nations invited for the summit.

Apart from a handful of foreign dignitaries invited to tourism events held at the state and district levels, Manipur seldom had the opportunity to,host an event of the stature of G20 and see the congregation of such a large number of delegates from different countries.

Therefore, it is imperative that everything in put in place to impress upon the delegates that Manipur is not only worth revisiting but also act as messengers to promote Manipur tourism.

Even though the delegates aren't schedule to venture beyond the summit locations no efforts should be spared to highlight the state's scenic spots which have huge potentials for adventure tourism.

Striving to work out sustainable solutions to the various challenges arising out of climate change might be the core theme during the yearlong G20 presidency of India but in Manipur's context a handful of events being planned in Bishnupur district and capital city Imphal would be an opportunity to hard-sell the state's tourism potentials.

While it is unlikely that events related to the G-20 Summit would make much of a difference to the state's economy, the manner in which the government of Manipur has been beautifying routes and structures leading to the summit venues and places that the delegates might visit on a war footing would be welcomed by all.

As it has been a general ritual to spruce up the state, especially mending of potholes and repairing of the roads whenever some high profile dignitaries are scheduled to visit Manipur for election campaigns and official assignments or in the run-up to the calendar Manipur Sangai Festival, the people would definitely be eager to have more such prominent visitors to frequent Manipur and host events of significance.

Taking into account of the fact that condition of major roads in the state are far better now, it could be safely stated that the delegates wouldn't regret their brief stint.

However, for sustainable growth of the state's tourism sector, it is imperative that that the government agencies maintain constant vigil to end the age-old practice of shopkeepers and residents in and around the historic Ima Keithel dumping waste on the roadside and in the nearby rivers during the night.