IT News
Imphal, Dec.22
Forest and Environment Minister Thounaojam Shyamkumar yesterday graced the second day of the Native Flavours, a three day long food and cultural festival held at Langei, Nongpok Sanjenbam, Imphal East organised by the Langei International in collaboration with the Department of Tourism.
Speaking as the chief guest of the function, Minister Shyamkumar opined that the festival which is celebrating the rich lineage of Tangkhul cuisine and tradition will spread awareness to the masses regarding the Tangkhul culture and tradition.
Stating that the community development by the Langei is a success story, he said the knowledge and ideas can be borrowed and implemented in other projects for overall development of the State. He said Manipur is home to different communities and is gifted with natural flora and fauna which needs to be protected for the future generation. He said there is a need for preserving and protecting the assets which our forefathers have passed on to us.
He said good hospitability to the people coming to the State can further flourish the tourism sector which will help in expanding the livelihood of the people. He said the focus can also be given on home stay so that tourist can enjoy the authentic custom and tradition of our State.
Expressing concern over the drug related cases in the State, he said that the situation is alarming and called for concerned authorities to continue their efforts to curb the menace. He also appealed to the people to shun tobacco products to avoid the deadly disease like cancer.
He further announced that under the Forest and Environment Department Rs 10 lakh will be handed over to Langei International for water conservation and environment protection including tree plantation.
W. Ibohal Singh, Director, Department of Tourism said that under the pilot project, Langei adopted Nongpok Sanjenbam Khunou and focused on community development. He said it has boosted the prospect of rural tourism for the area.
Stating that a tourist coming to the State wants to enjoy the traditional customs of the particular community, he said people at different areas can focus on providing home stay to such tourist. He opined that providing the authentic customs and tradition will surely help in awareness regarding our different communities. He further said that the effort of the Langei is recognized by the State Government and a discussion will be held for upgradation.
All together 15 stalls displayed different food varieties of Tangkhul cuisines. Entertainment programmes followed the evening session. The food and cultural festival will conclude tomorrow.
