IT News
Imphal, June 22:
Governor of Manipur La. Ganesan has said that Imphal Peace Museum at Maibam Lotpa Ching is a sacred place of Manipur and is famous for 2nd World War where Japanese Army fought against the Allied Forces till their last breath. Therefore, this place is known as Peace Museum which stands as a testimony and a place to pay tribute for an everlasting peace and reconciliation.
Speaking at the 3rd Anniversary celebration of Imphal Peace Museum held today at Maibam Lotpa Ching, Governor said, the Maibam Lotpa Ching or the Red Hills is a historic war memorial site of the Battle of Imphal, an important branch of WW-II that took place in Nambol, Manipur. He said, this is one of the important places in the history of Manipur. Lauding the efforts made by the Manipur Tourism Forum in establishing the Peace Museum, La. Ganesan said, the museum displays and depicts hardships experienced by the people of Manipur during the war and how Manipur which was a peaceful state and the people had to flee from the ravages of war. It has been one of the most visited tourist place in Manipur. The Imphal Peace Museum has become the hallmark and testimony of the strong historical connection which the people of Manipur have with Japan, he added.
Expressing the need to conduct more research on the battle sites, Governor said, these sites need to be preserved and restored with proper memorials so that future generations can understand the sacrifices made from both sides while also spreading the message of peace and affirming that war benefits no nation. La. Ganesan further stated that the states of North East are blessed with nature’s bounty. The tremendous potential for tourism in the region needs to be explored for the economic growth and prosperity of the people. This can be an event to make Manipur known to many parts of the world and for making Manipur a World War II heritage site and attract tourist from across the globe.
Earlier, Governor tours the museum and witnessed the old war related artifact which are being displayed there. Commissioner (Tourism) P.K. Jha also spoke on the shared and common history of India and Japan especially with Manipur.
Kawazu Kunihiko (Charge d’Affairs, Minister & Deputy Chief of Mission), Embassy of Japan, Atusushi Sunami, President, Sasakawa Peace Foundation and representatives of Nippon Foundation, Japan participated among others in the celebration. The celebration was co-organized by Manipur Tourism Forum and 2nd World War Imphal Campaign Foundation.
