The Manipur government has reached out to all residents, especially those displaced inside the state, urging their support for the 10‑day Sangai Tourism Festival that runs from November 21 to 30. Chief Secretary Puneet Kumar Goel said the festival is more than just a show—it’s a pledge to move forward together, and he wants every citizen’s participation to help the state grow.
The appeal comes after several groups, including the Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI) and the main civic body of the Meitei community, announced a statewide boycott of the festival amid rising tensions and the ongoing humanitarian crisis. IDPs in five or six Imphal valley districts staged protests at their relief camps on November 20, demanding that the government focus on resettling displaced people before holding the event.
Rajendra Singh, vice‑chairman of the Committee of Protection of Meitei People, echoed this call. He said the state should finish fixing homes and ensuring free movement on highways before hosting the Sangai Festival for the second time in two years.
“Tourism, jobs, youth empowerment and community harmony are the pillars of Manipur’s future,” Goel explained. “The Sangai Festival will ignite hope, create markets for local artisans, farmers and entrepreneurs, and drive investment.” He also highlighted that addressing the plight of IDPs tops the government’s agenda. The state spends about Rs 18 crore a month on cash aid for displaced families and running relief camps. From the Special Relief Package of Rs 523 crore supplied by the central government, Rs 180 crore funds house restoration for IDPs, while Rs 250 crore goes to building community facilities—health centers, schools, water supply and more—in resettlement sites.
While relief remains paramount, the Sangai Festival will help accelerate Manipur’s economy. To kick off the event, the Department of Youth Affairs and Sports teamed up with tourism officials for “Sangai Run‑2025.” About 1,500 athletes ran in three categories—5 km fun run, 10 km fitness run and a 25 km open/veteran race—flanked by celebrated sports stars from Manipur, including Padma Shree N. Kunjarani Devi (weightlifting), Arjuna Awardee L. Sarita (boxing), Padma Shree Smt O. Bembem (football), Olympian Ng. Sonia (weightlifting), L. Anita Chanu (Dhyan Chand Awardee, weightlifting) and Arjuna Awardee Chinglensana Kangujam (Hockey Olympian). Winners received medals and cash prizes, and all participants were awarded medals.
The Manipur government hopes that the Sangai Tourism Festival will bring people together, boost local businesses, and restore confidence in a period of social and economic recovery.
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