Imphal, April 21: Reminding that golf activity is increasingly becoming an important asset in development and promotion of eco-tourism sector, the Governor Dr SS sidhu informed of the Central Government having sanctioned Phase-I of the proposed eco-tourism park project at the foothills of Nongmaiching in Imphal East district.

Speaking during the opening programme of the 2nd Governor's Golf Cup Championship at Mantripukhri today, Dr Sidhu said an 18-hole golf course is being planned as a component of the eco-tourism park in Nongmaiching (Baruni) for which the Centre had sanctioned phase-I amounting to about Rs 4 crore.

The Governor had laid the foundation stone for the said eco-tourism park project some months back.

While noting relatively recent advent of golf in Manipur, the governor attributed increasing popularity of the sports to relentless efforts of Manipur Golf Association and also to the players of the State for their skills of adaptation to any new discipline of the game.

Referring to the sport of golf as a vital contributor in maintaining ecological balance as the game is itself played in ambience of greenery and scenic environment, the Governor also pointed to the sports discipline a employment generator through its capacity of engaging maintenance staff and caddies.

He also recalled of documented evidence regarding origin of golf in Scotland in the late 15th century with Royal Kolkata Golf Club (1929) having the distinction of being the first golf club outside the British Isles.

He also complemented Inspector General Assam Rifles, and other officials and personnel for the encouraging development of the Mantripukhri course compared to the previous year.

Exuding confi dence that the golf course will become one of the best in the region in the coming years, the Governor also appreciated the fact that membership of Mantripukhri Golf Club has grown manifold, including several number of civilians.

The competition participated by 40 members of Mantripukhri Golf Club, Leimakhong Golf Club and Manipur Golf Assn was won by IGAR (S) Maj Gen BK Chengapa in men's under-18 (handicap) category while Sarat Chandra clinched the over-18 (handicap) title.

In ladies' section Mrs Lakhi Pyari claimed the crown with Mrs Priyanka Singh wresting the Putting event title.

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