Manipur organises first tourism festival

Imphal, Nov 7 (UNI) A four-day tourism festival for promotion of travelling in Manipur began with a call to withdraw restriction of entry on foreigners.

The organisers, Manipur Tourism department, Manipur Mountaineering and Trekking Association, Seven Sisters Tourism Services, among others, said yesterday that due to restrictions imposed on the state by the Centre, no foreigner could come since Manipur became a part of the Indian union in 1949.

The festival would continue till November nine.

State Governor S S Sidhu said, ''Tourism is the fastest track for socio-economic development and the festival, first of its kind, is aimed at showcasing the state to the travellers.'' General obstacle adventure, rock climbing exhibitions were organised and a caving expedition was launched at Tharon cave, Tamenglong district.

Indigenous games like Mukna, polo, Arambai and Mukna Kangjei would be organised during the festival. About 50 exhibition stalls, displaying tourism-related items' were opened at the Mapal Kangjeibung, Imphal.

Jet Airways has announced a special package for all flights coming to Manipur until the end of the festival.

Special cultural items, representing the mosaic culture of Manipur, will be displayed tonight at the Mapal Kangjeibung.

State Tourism Minister T N Haokip said, ''Charity begins at home, hence the festival is mainly focused on the people of state so that they can understand each other.'' UNI NS PC HS ND1454