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Thounaojam Shyamkumar inspects the flower stall put up during the festival at Ukhrul in Manipur on Oct. 26.[/caption]
Our Correspondent
Imphal, Oct. 26 (EMN): Three day annual Ukhrul Flower Festival began on Friday at the Town Hall in Manipur, Ukhrul district headquarters, under the theme “Potted Fever.” The festival is being organised by the Ukhrul Flower Society (UFS) and it will conclude on Sunday.
Speaking as the chief guest of the inaugural programme, Horticulture and Soil Conservation Minister Thounaojam Shyamkumar expressed concern over the decreasing forest cover in Ukhrul district. He appealed the people to plant more trees to increase forest cover.
Stating that the state government is committed to help the people through various welfare programs, he sought cooperation from the stakeholders.
Lauding the UFS for organising the festival, the minister suggested them to find location such as a hillock, where flowers can be planted and develop it as a flower park which can also add to the scenic beauty of Ukhrul and attract tourists.
The minister who also holds the Urban Development portfolio further assured to bring more welfare projects.
UFS Advisor Artax A Shimra informed that he had requested the state government to frame a policy for floriculture so that various welfare schemes can be implemented apart from providing livelihood to the people. He said many medicinal plants and ornamental plants found in Ukhrul can be sold to generate income. He also urged the concerned department to provide training programmes.
The highlights of three days annual flower festival are flower show, exhibition cum sale of flowers, organic vegetables and fruits, local foods and cuisines, processed food items and local handicrafts.
