State observes World Tourism Day at Phayeng
Our Bureau
IMPHAL | Sept 27
The chief minister N. Biren after a series of meetings with Union ministers and officials in New Delhi, and has successfully lobbied for funds to build three rope-ways connect ing Siroi and Ukhrul, Marjing and Pheidinga and Sendra and Karang.
This was stated by Karam Shyam, minister of consumer affairs, food and public distribution and revenue during the observation of World Tourism Day at Phayeng village, Imphal West. The theme for this year’s celebration is ‘Sustainable Tourism- a Tool for Development’.
The minister informed that water harvesting facility will soon come up at Lamphel and land encroachers will be evicted after giving suitable notice, following the law of the land.
He also said that the welcome accorded to him following the age old traditions and customs with men and women of the area wearing the traditional dress is in line with the theme of the observation.
The minister applauded the locals for preserving the culture and traditions of our forefathers and said that it is heartening to be sitting along with the chief of Phayeng who is wearing the traditional dress.
Shyam highlighting the contribution of tourism in the economy said the sector accounts for 10 percent of global GDP and has generated 1 in 10 jobs in the global workforce. He said it is unfortunate that the State is unable to tap the full potential of the natural beauty which is blessed with green forest cover and rare species of flora and fauna.
He said to boost tourism, the State should become tourist friendly, provide a secure environment by improving the law and order situation. He called upon the citizens of the State to help the government in making Manipur a favoured tourist destination.
Sapam Ranjan Singh, chairman of the Tourism Corporation of Manipur Limited (TCML) said that marketing in an important constituent needed to boost tourism. Stating that emphasis is being given to promote rural tourism, Ranjan said in the upcoming Sangai Festival homestays will be promoted to unable the tourists to experience the lifestyle of the people.
Heikham Dingo Singh, MLA Sekmai A/C said that the State is rich in arts and culture and tourism can reach its full potential if the locals collaborate with the government. He also said for the State to develop, the villages must be developed first.
As part of world tourism day, the locals of the Phayeng village performed dances of Khou Chongba and Chakpa Phayeng Anoiba jagoi. Mukna demonstration enthralled the spectators along with Waa (bamboo) Chingba.
The locals of Phayeng also submitted memorandum to the chief guest Karam Shyam which was addressed to the chief minister.
The observation is organised by tourism department, government of Manipur. Attending the function were P.K. Singh, principal secretary, tourism, government of Manipur, R. Sudhan, director, tourism, government of Manipur, among other invitees.
Read more / Original news source: http://www.ifp.co.in/item/3937-proposal-for-3-rope-ways-approved-by-centre