Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, July 15 2010:
The Manipur Public Library Act 1988 has not been enforced yet as the same Act requires amendment, stated Chief Minister O Ibobi who is also in charge of Art and Culture Department in response to a query raised by MLA U Deben in the State Assembly today.
The Manipur Public Library Act passed by the State Assembly in 1993 which was earlier under Education Department has been put under Art and Culture Department.
In order to provide certain rooms to local bodies in implementing the Act, it needs some readjustments, Ibobi stated.
An amount of Rs 43 lakhs including State's share of Rs 15 lakhs have been earmarked for development of the State Central Library.
Maintaining that construction work of the State Central Library building, taken up under the 12th Finance Commission, has been progressing smoothly, Ibobi informed the House that another Rs 50 lakhs have been sanctioned to add a new floor to the existing building so that the library has more space.
Efforts are also being made to open library centres in all districts, he added.
Responding to another query raised by Radhabinod Koijam, the Chief Minister admitted that letting loose cattle and horses within Imphal city has been causing serious inconveniences besides impeding traffic.