Manipur's tourism lies in its people and communities : Governor
ISL match to enthral Manipur on Nov 24
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal/Moirang, September 27 2026: As in other places, the World Tourism Day 2026 was observed today at Sangai Ethnic Park, Moirang Khunou, Bishnupur district.

Organised by the Department of Tourism, the event was held on the theme, "Digital Agenda and Artificial Intelligence to Redesign Tourism" .

The programme began with the presentation of the National and State songs.

The event also featured cultural dance performances and songs by students of Pam's Kindergarten, Ukhrul, Government Dance College, Manipur, and others.

A bike rally was also taken out from Hapta Kangjeibung to the venue of the programme.

Manipur's tourism lies in its people and communities : Governor

During the function, the State Government announced that NorthEast United FC would bring the Indian Super League (ISL) to Manipur for the first time, with an ISL match scheduled to be held in the State on November 24 .

NEUFC and Sporting Club, Delhi will play the ISL match at Khuman Lampak at 7.30 pm on November 24 .

Addressing the function as the chief guest, Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla said Manipur is rich in art and culture.

He said Manipur has several heritage sites and immense tourism potential, while calling for the integration of technology into the tourism sector.

The true strength of Manipur tourism goes beyond its landscapes and monuments and lies in its people and communities, he said.

He said the State's distinctive way of life and traditions of welcoming guests are among its key tourism assets.

Observing that this year's theme was particularly relevant at a time when technology is transforming how people discover, experience and share destinations, the Governor said it presented tremendous possibilities for Manipur.

He added that the Government is actively promoting homestays and empowering local families to convert their homes into tourist accommodations to ensure tourism revenue reaches the grassroots.

Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh said around 1.75 lakh tourists visited Manipur before the 2023 crisis, which was higher than the tourist inflow recorded by Mizoram at that time.

However, he said tourist arrivals in Mizoram have now crossed eight lakh, generating increased revenue for the neighbouring State, while tourist inflow in Manipur has drastically declined due to the prevailing crisis.

The Chief Minister also pointed out that Sikkim, despite being a small State, receives more than 17 lakh tourists annually, attributing the increase to its stable law and order situation.

He said tourists would not visit Manipur in the absence of a peaceful envi- ronment, adding that the tourism sector, which has the potential to generate substantial revenue for the State, has been adversely affected by the prevailing law and order situation.

Khemchand said the Government alone could not bring peace to the State and that collective efforts from all stakeholders are necessary.

He further said beautification of tourist spots alone is not enough and stressed the need to improve the overall tourism itinerary and facilities to a standard acceptable to foreign tourists.

Tourism Minister Khuraijam Loken Singh said the tourism sector contributes significantly to revenue generation in the State.

He said initiatives aimed at generating revenue should not be hindered as such disruptions would slow down the development process.

He also maintained that peace and development would not be possible without unity among the 36 communities living in Manipur.

Thanga AC MLA Tongbram Robindro also called for encouraging young entrepreneurs to develop tourism solutions based on local needs.

During the programme, the Governor launched the Manipur Tech Innovation Foundation (MTIF) Portal, while the Chief Minister relaunched the revamped Explore Manipur-Re-Imagining Tourism Portal.

The Governor also presented the Re-Imagining Manipur Hackathon awards to the winners, while the Chief Minister presented awards to bikers who participated in a bike rally held in the early hours of the day as part of the observance.

The Governor and Chief Minister, along with other dignitaries, inspected stalls set up in connection with the programme.

Deputy Chief Minister Losii Dikho, Home Minister Govindas Konthoujam, MLAs, Chief Secretary, Director General of Police, senior administrative officials, high-ranking security officers and local residents also attended the programme.