Manipur govt’s Christmas gift: Libraries for 34 recognized ethnic tribes and a Tribal Chiefs’ Guest House
In a festive announcement on December 22nd, Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh declared a Christmas and New Year gift to the state’s diverse population: a library hall for each of its 34 recognized ethnic tribes.
This initiative, estimated to cost Rs. 10 crores will promote literacy, cultural preservation and a sense of community among the state’s rich tapestry of traditions.
“Hill people and valley people are inseparable politically and historically,” Chief Minister Singh stated at the curtain raiser event for the commissioning of INS Imphal, the Indian Navy’s stealth guided missile destroyer. “We are all brothers and sisters. So, whenever they come down here in Imphal, they look for hotels to stay.”
To address the scarcity of hotels in Imphal, the state government has constructed Tribal Chiefs’ guest house with 40 rooms at the palace compound in Imphal East district. The construction of the guest house for Hill Chiefs has been funded by the North Eastern Council. He highlighted the Tribal Chiefs’ guest house as another step towards strengthening ties between communities.
The Guest House for Hill Chiefs, named ‘Chinggi Ningthousinggi Thungpham Yum,’ has been built at an approximate cost of Rs. 7 crore. This initiative is driven by a vision aimed at enhancing the bonds between the hills and the valley within the state.
The library halls will not only provide access to knowledge and educational resources but also serve as dedicated spaces for each tribe to showcase its unique heritage. This could include housing archives, manuscripts, local artwork, and instruments, fostering a sense of cultural identity and pride among community members.
Speaking about the newly commissioned warship, INS Imphal, Singh expressed pride in the naming of the vessel after the state capital. He highlighted the recognition and respect accorded to Manipur’s rich history and past glory, attributing the state’s achievements to the contributions and sacrifices of its forefathers.
Singh urged the state to reciprocate and appreciate the efforts of Central leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, by actively participating in the vision of building ‘One Bharat, Strong Bharat.’
