Manipur needs peace to be on world tourism map: CM
10-day Sangai Festival 2015 Concludes On High Notes
Source: Hueiyen News Service

Imphal, November 30 2015: Manipur Chief Minister O Ibobi on Monday exuded confidence that Manipur would one day be a popular tourist destination and also be on the world tourism map.

He stated that the State government has been making continues efforts towards this goal while stressing on bringing peace in the State.

The Chief Minister made the statement while speaking at the closing ceremony of the ten-day Sangai Festival 2015 organised by Manipur Government's Tourism Department at Hapta Kangjeibung.

Attending the grand closing function as Chief Guest, O Ibobi stated that traditional and indigenous sports, cultures and number of tourist spots of Manipur were successfully highlighted during the ten-day festival.

He also expressed delight in noting that no untoward incidents were reported during the ten-day Sangai Festival.

Manipur needs peace to be on world tourism map: CM

While pointing out the multi-cultural facet of Manipur as various communities have been living together since time immemorial, the Chief Minister said Manipur was like a mini-India where different communities live together.

Ibobi stated that the Government has always focused on developing tourism in Manipur by developing infrastructures.

He said that peace was requisite if the State hopes to further enhance its tourist potential.

"People of Manipur should let the tourists feel secured while visiting the State", said O Ibobi.

On the occasion, the Chief Minister also admitted that tourist spots in Manipur are yet to be developed on par with international destinations and standards.

Despite the limited State funds, Manipur has not halted launching developmental programmes, he said.

Ibobi appealed all to contribute their mite in making Manipur a world class tourist destination.

Attending the closing ceremony as President, Deputy Chief Minister Gaikhangam said the ten-day Sangai Festival has been successful in spreading the message of a collective Manipur.

"Different communities of the State, who have been living together since time immemorial, celebrate various festivals but Sangai Festival is one where all the communities of the State irrespective of hills and valley divide come together to celebrate along with tourists from around the globe," said Gaikhangam.

Gaikhangam further stated that Sangai Festival occupies an important role in highlighting Manipur to the world.

"Indigenous cultures, traditions, languages, sports and tourist spots of Manipur are displayed and highlighted in the festival which also spread the message of Manipur's integrity," said Gaikhangam.