Newmai News Network
Senapati | December 13
The 1st State Level Barak Festival was held today under the theme, ‘Sustaining Peace and Harmony’ amidst much fanfare at Mini Stadium Ground in Senapati district headquarters today. Colorful cultural items of different tribes of the district were also presented at the function. The dignitaries also visited the morungs (traditional huts) of five communities of the district viz. Mao, Maram, Poumai, Thangal and Zeliangrong constructed at the festival venue.
Speaking at the opening function as the chief guest, Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh said that one cannot enjoy the delight of having good roads and owning costly cars if there is no amity among people. Stating that good relationship among people of different communities is of prime importance, the Chief Minister stated that one who respects others would gain love and regard from others in return.
Observing that water is life, and no life is possible without water, Biren acclaimed the people of Senapati district for understanding the importance of Barak river, which is one of the most important components of the state’s ecosystem. This is the reason why he requested the people of Senapati to allow the Government to join hands with people of the district in organizing the festival as a state level event from this year onwards, said Biren.
He added that the Government would take up steps in consultation with the DC and officials of the State Tourism Department to encourage garbage management and plantation of saplings at the origin of Barak and also at some selected villages where river passes through.
He further expressed desire to organize the festival in greater scale and systematic manner with participation of tourists and cultural troupes from other states and foreign countries from the next year. For this he directed the contractor and officials concerned to complete construction of gallery of the mini stadium before next year’s festival.
Speaking on the occasion as the functional president, Public Health Engineering Minister, Losii Dikho said that like Egypt is the gift of the Nile, Barak River has been playing pivotal role in maintaining a good ecosystem rich in flora and fauna in the state. Stating that requirement of water would increase manifold in coming days, water can be brought to the valley through tunnels, he opined. The Minister also spoke about various projects taken up by the Government in Senapati district.
Earlier, the Chief Minister unveiled Barak Monolith and opened the festival with lighting of the festival lamp.