IMPHAL, Nov 21 - In a move to showcase the uniqueness of the shy and gentle brow-antlered deer, popularly known as Sangai, which is found only in Manipur at the floating Keibul Lamjao National Park in Loktak Lake and to promote Manipur as a world class tourism destination, the ten-day Manipur Sangai festival got off to a colourful start at the well-decorated Hafta Kangjeibung ground here on Monday.
Manipur Governor Dr Najma A Heptulla and Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh were the chief guest and functional president respectively at the inaugural function at the well-designed Bhagyachandra Open Air Theatre at Hafta Kangjeibung.
Japanese ambassador Kenji Hiramatsu, Chief Minister of Chin state of Myanmar U Salai Luai and Deputy Chief Minister Gaikhangam were the special guest and the guests of honour.
Speaking on the occasion, Manipur Governor Dr Najma A Heptulla appealed to all sections of people of Manipur to come forward to bring an amicable solution to the militancy problem by sitting across the table. Urging the people to celebrate the beautiful culture of the State, the Governor also expressed her desire to develop Manipur as one of the best states in North East India. Expressing her desire to clean Loktak, the largest freshwater lake in the region, with technology input from Japan for its preservation, she also urged the agencies concerned to operate international flights from Delhi to Myanmar, Thailand and even Japan via Imphal International Airport.
In his speech, Chief Minister O Ibobi Singh said attempts to showcase Manipur as a disturbed land is very unfortunate. Stating that satisfaction and dissatisfaction will always be there, the CM said every problem can be resolved through dialogue.
Stating that Manipur is marching ahead in the health and power sectors, he also revealed that many had appreciated Manipur�s power sector reforms in the recently concluded national power
summit.
Chin state Chief Minister U Salai Luai, Japan Ambassador Kenji Hiramatsu and Deputy Chief Minister Gaikhangam also spoke on the occasion. The main attractions of the festival this time include an international polo tournament from tomorrow, Asian Theatre Festival, International Film Festival, a series of cultural shows and other eco-tourism activities etc.
