Imphal, February 12: Recognising the difficulties being faced by the artisans in the State due to lack of proper marketing facilities, Governor Dr SS Sidhu has stated that setting up of an urban haat in Manipur the need of the hour.

Dr Sidhu also assured of doing his level best in tying to prevail upon the Centre and the State Government for setting up an urban haat in the State.

He was speaking at the occasion of the WIGC Craft Bazar, 2008 being organised by the Women Income Generation Centre (WIGC) at Thoubal Mela ground today.

The craft bazar is being organised under the sponsorship of Development Commissioner (Handicraft), Ministry of Textiles, Government of India since February 7 .

Appreciating the efforts being made by WIGC for eradication of poverty in the State, Dr Sidhu also appealed to all the people to extend their support and co-operation in such endeavours.

He pointing out that promotion of small scale industries, development of vocational training and spreading awareness on micro-financing among the people specially women are essential in a State like Manipur which does not have the advantage of big industries.

In view of the opportunities being provided to he artisans, the Governor observed that such craft melas should also be organised not just in other parts of the State but also in the neighbouring States so as to provide more exposure and market facilities.

In continuation of the event, Dr Sidhu felicitated two National award winning artisans and presented meritorious awards to students of the children home run by WIGC and winners of the various competitions held during the mela.

Winners of the Best Male Actor, Best Female Actor and Best Director awards in the just concluded Festival of Manipur Cinema, 2008 were also honoured at the occasion with simple gifts.

Comment