Imphal (PIB): On the second day of G20 delegates’ visit to the State, an excursion was organised by the State Government to showcase places of historic significance and famous tourists’ spots.
The delegates were warmly received by Chief Minister N Biren and his cabinet colleagues at Marjing Polo Complex. They were also welcomed by different cultural troupes in their attractive traditional attire at Sangai Ethnic Park. The delegates were so delighted to witness the historical sites and the performance of the cultural dances and songs.
Led by Chief Minister N Biren Singh, the delegates visited the Marjing Polo Complex located in Imphal East district where an iconic statue of polo player mounted on a horse statue has been erected.
It is the world’s tallest statue of a polo player. It was built to commemorate the game of “modern polo” originated from Manipur. They were accorded a warm reception by the locals of the area.
The delegation also witnessed an exhibition polo match at the newly developed polo ground in the Complex along with a demonstration of ‘Arambai’ (iron tipped feathered weapons used by Manipuri warriors).
One of the delegates from Bhutan, Sonam Phuntsho, talking to our official said that they are mesmerized by the hospitality of the state and look forward to exploring investment avenues.
The delegates from 23 nations consisting of 26 overseas business delegates and 24 diplomates also visited the Indian National Army Headquarters located at Moirang in Bishnupur district.
On their way, the delegates were greeted with flowers and dances by a large number of people showing the hospitable nature of the State.
The Indian National Army (INA) Headquarters Complex that stands today embodies the commitment of the Government of Manipur to give fitting tribute to the brave hearts of INA under Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose.
The Complex symbolizes the spirit and the role played by the Indian National Army in India’s Freedom Movement.
It was on April 14, 1944, that the flag of the INA, carrying yellow, white and green stripes with the image of springing tiger in the middle, was for the second time, hoisted here on Indian soil at Moirang, about 45 kilometres from Imphal, the capital of Manipur. The old house standing in the Complex was used by the INA as its office.
Later the delegates visited the Loktak Lake, where they enjoyed a boat ride at Loktak Lake. At the Sangai Ethnic Park, they planted trees. Later in the Sangai Ethnic Park, people belonging to different communities showcased their ethnicity and uniqueness with their traditional attire and dances which enthralled the visiting delegation.
The delegates will visit Ima Market, the largest all women market in Asia and the historical Kangla Fort before leaving Imphal on Sunday.
