Manipur must come out of the current phase : Biren
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, August 29 2024: Chief Minister N Biren has categorically stated that Manipur must come out of the current phase of turmoil and the spirit of peaceful co-existence and development which was there before May 3, 2023 must be revived.

The Chief Minister was speaking at a National Sports Day observation held today at Hiyai Adventure Club, Achanbigei under the aegis of Youth Affairs and Sports Department.

The National Sports Day is observed in honour of Padma Shree Awardee Major Dhyan Chand.

Speaking at the function, N Biren stated that Ministers and MLAs have geared up to start implementing several schemes in their respective Assembly segments once the rainfall ceases.

Manipur must come out of the current phase : Biren

He said that roads have broken down due to floods which hit the State three times in quick succession.

The recent floods were not restricted to Manipur alone but most parts of the country too faced floods, he said.

"Houses are built after filling lakes/wetlands.

Drains/canals are filled and shops are built over them.

Poppy cultivation is done on hill ranges after clearing vast forest areas.

We will suffer for some time as a result of all such activities which are harmful to nature", Biren said.

The Chief Minister said that he has told his Ministers to attend their offices regularly and monitor the activities of their respective departments.

"I've already started reviewing works of different departments one after another", he said.

He then appealed to all the people to work hard in their respective fields so as to make Manipur a progressive State.

"Let us all work together to bring peace and restore Manipur to its former self where there is harmony among all the communities which have been living together since ages", he said.

Rajya Sabha Member Leisemba Sanajaoba, Agriculture Minister Th Biswajit, Veterinary Minister Khashim Vashum, MLAs Kh Ibomcha, S Kunjakeswor, S Premchandra and Th Arunkumar were also present at the function presided by YAS Minister Govindas Konthoujam.

Weightlifter Saikhom Mirabai Chanu who participated in Paris Olympics 2024 and Benita Laishram who won fourth position in Bharat Ka Amrit Kalash too attended the function as special guests.

While YAS Department felicitated Saikhom Mirabai Chanu with a dummy cheque of Rs 25 lakh, Art and Culture Department honoured Benita Laishram with a dummy cheque of Rs 10 lakh.

The function culminated with the final match of a football tournament held in commemoration of the National Sports Day.