An Eco-tourism project comprising a tourist lodge, cultural hall, village gate, three view-points, two rest camps, nine home stays and three foot paths was inaugurated at Khayang village in Ukhrul district by Ukhrul assembly constituency MLA Alfred Kanngam Arthur on Friday.
Popular songwriter and singer Oshimwo, upcoming star performer Mashun Shaiza, Kakami, Semmichon Kashung, and Shonshon enthralled the crowd with their best of 2021 highlights with MLA Alfred joining them and presenting some English numbers much to the satisfaction of the villagers.
(PHOTO: IFP)
“I generally do not take part in inaugurations for the reason that empty structures and unveiling of monuments in name only without substance is not simply my cup of tea,” MLA of Ukhrul assembly constituency Alfred Kanngam Arthur said while delivering his speech at the event as the chief guest.
He assured the Khayang villagers that he will provide all the demands put forth by them within March.
Explaining his reasons for not doing inaugurations, he said, “Why would I do inaugurations when there is nothing else for the people to receive benefits. Prominent figures of the country went on an inauguration spree whereas in reality, there is nothing great to talk about when referring to empty structures devoid of any facilities.”
Mentioning that Khayang eco tourism project was his first inauguration, he urged the people of the areas to create a “conducive, safe, and friendly environment” which is a must to attract tourists, so that the tourism potential of the region is realised and benefits equally shared.
Reliable sources told the Imphal Free Press that developing these areas remains his top priority.
Concerning the project, district project director, UDCRMS Lily Rose said that arranging of homestays for the visitors is a must and given the region's rich tourist potential, the need for facilitating these facilities has become all the more important.
While thanking former NEC secretary Ram Muivah for bringing these projects, Lily urged the dwellers to ensure that the dense forest cover and its resources are not exploited for selfish gains but preserved by joining hands together.
Sources said that connecting the region with the district headquarters has been the MLA’s main interest. They continued that he frequented the areas to ensure that the grievances of the people are taken care of. When the rainy season hits, the MLA personally intervened by repairing the rugged road stretch from his own expenses, they said.
The MLA is currently frequenting the areas to ensure that ongoing PMGSY road construction maintains quality.
Meanwhile, Ukhrul deputy commissioner Joseph Pauline Kamson who attended as the guest of honour corroborated the views of the region, saying that MLA Alfred took keen interest in developing these areas and hence, the frequency of his visits to oversee the progress of the ongoing PMGSY road constructions.
(PHOTO: IFP)
Kamson who was also the chairman of UDCRMS appreciated the high spirited enthusiasm shown by the youths of Khayang, and said that they should be given equal opportunity so that they may perform better than those in the town.
Khayang is under Sahamphung block in Ukhrul district of Manipur. Located in the extreme corner of eastern part of Ukhrul, Khayang has around 60 households, and is the home to varied flora and fauna in addition to scores of scenic spots.
To reach Khayang, one had to cross Mapum, Zingsui, Ronshak, Sahamphung, Roni, Mateyan and Jamu villages. Phungpha and Kachaouphung villages are the last stopover of these eastern regions.
Given its dense forest cover and rich resources, if tapped well, the region could surely emerge as the biggest tourism hotspot in the NorthEast region generating huge employment opportunities.
The project, which was started on November 28, 2018, was constructed at an estimated cost of 1,49,77, 444 lakhs with UDCRMS/ NERCOMP, Ukhrul as the implementing agency.
It was funded by the North East Council (NEC), Government of India.
Delivering the welcome address, headman Khayang AS Wunganing thanked the visiting MLA for paying special attention to the needs of the village and areas. The village learnt the art of farming, account maintenance, file keeping etc. from the UDCRMS Ukhrul, he asserted. He also thanked former UDCRMS director, Ramnganing Muivah Tychicus Vashum and Artax Shimray for giving special focus and opening the village and areas to the rest of its counterpart.
The programme began with Guru AS Rawung sounding the trumpets, followed by unveiling of monuments and inspections.
The two days long event was attended by Phillip Sahamphung Block SDO, Kaphaoleng Angkang General secretary TNWL, Ngachangthing president ZTKL, Ephrain president Sambu student Union, SRL and villagers among others. The programme was jointly organised by UDCRMS Ukhrul and Khayang NARMG.
