Manipur hosts first-ever Indigenous people’s cultural exchange festival in Kamjong district

To strengthen the ties between various Indigenous communities of the state, a two-day Cultural Exchange Festival was inaugurated today at Chadong under the Kamjong District.

The program was held under the theme ‘Manipur United by Diversity’ and organised by the Indigenous People's Forum, Manipur (IPFM) under the aegis of the Tourism Department, Government of Manipur.

Addressing the function as chief guest, Chief Minister N Biren Singh said that standing united by every Indigenous community is crucial to protecting Manipur from any threat. Celebrating such a cultural exchange program would pave the way for enhancing the age-old relationship between various Indigenous communities of the state.

He also said that the state government is making a concerted effort to preserve and protect the indigenous people of Manipur through proper constitutional safeguards. However, some people are trying to relentlessly criticise the effort. Nevertheless, the state government would continue to fight for their endeavour.

“Manipur is for indigenous people. Our forefathers had been defending our land using swords and spears. The government is committed to protecting and safeguarding the indigenous population at all costs,” he assured.

Appealing to the people of the state to take the preservation of Indigenous people seriously, he suggested people study the Government records and data on population, geography and the demographic imbalance of the state. 

Also Read: Women's civil society group organizes "Nupi Lan' memorial function in Delhi, honours Manipur's historic "women's war"

He appreciated Manipur Police, Assam Rifles, CAPFs, CSOs and volunteers for destroying poppy plantations in the State and expressed his commitment to continue the war on drugs mission. 

Chairman of IPFM, Ashang Kasar said that the main objective of organising the first-ever cultural exchange program in the state is to promote, preserve and stand all indigenous communities united. 

“Though we always say that we are indigenous people of the state. But we the indigenous population don’t have any platform to share our culture. To have that space, the event is being organised,” he added.

A Tangkhul Singer, Thangmeiso Shinglai expressed his happiness of being able to take part in the event and encouraged people to take part in such a significant event. 

As a part of the program, various cultural items of various communities were featured. 

The cultural festival was attended by Works Minister Govindas Konthoujam, CAF and PD Minister Leishangthem Susindro Meitei, Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Minister Shri Kashim Vashum, Chairperson Manipur Building and Other Construction Board K. Sarat Kumar, Head man of Chadong village Wungnaoyo Kasar, Secretary (Tourism) Naorem Praveen Singh, Tourism Department Director W. Ibohal Singh, Apunba Ima Keithel Lup, high ranking police officials and villagers among others.