Newmai News Network Imphal | May 11 The two-day Annual State Level Tribal Cultural Festival organised by Tribal Research Institute (TRI), Government of Manipur under the aegis of Ministry of Tribal Affairs, Government of India under the theme, ‘Tribal Culture for Peace and Unity’ kicked off today at TRI Complex at Chingmeirong in Imphal. Speaking on the occasion, Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh has said that the State Government has sent a proposal to the Centre for setting up a Heritage Park worth Rs. 90 crore at Keibul Lamjao in Bishnupur district. The Park having heritage structures of all the communities of the State would serve as a permanent venue for the annual Manipur Sangai Festival, he added. N. Biren also said that the festival should be organised in a more grandeur manner at an open space at a suitable time from the next year. Stating that the State Government is willing to sanction the additional fund for the festival, the Chief Minister also asked the Tribal Research Institute to co-ordinate with the State Government to upgrade the festival from next year so that it may become more meaningful and magnificent. He also contended that every event or activity should be executed/organised in such a manner so as to serve its intended purpose. Tribal Affairs and Hills Minister N. Kayisii, who graced the function as president, said that every community should preserve its culture and identity. He also thanked the participants belonging to different tribal communities for taking part in the festival despite their busy chores because of the onset of farming season at hill areas. Earlier, the Chief Minister declared the festival open and rung the inaugural gong to mark the beginning of the two-day festival that will conclude tomorrow. PHE Minister Losii Dikho, Hill Area Committee (HAC) Chairman T.T. Haokip and Outer Manipur Parliamentary Constituency MP Thangso Baite also graced the function as guests of honour. Presentation of colourful tribal cultural dances, folk songs and tribal cuisines were the main highlights of the festival.
