Imphal: Manipur will host an Indian Super League (ISL) match for the first time on November 24, the state government announced during World Tourism Day celebrations in Bishnupur district on Sunday.
NorthEast United FC will bring the ISL to Manipur as part of efforts to promote the state as a tourism destination and support its economy.
Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla and Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh jointly attended the World Tourism Day programme at Sangai Ethnic Park in Moirang Khunou. This year’s theme was “Digital Agenda and Artificial Intelligence to Redesign Tourism”.
Bhalla said Manipur’s tourism potential extends beyond its landscapes and monuments, with local communities and their distinctive traditions forming the sector’s core strength. He said the government was promoting homestays to enable local families to participate directly in the tourism economy.
Khemchand said Manipur received around 1.75 lakh tourists annually before the 2023 crisis. He contrasted this with Mizoram, where tourist arrivals have since crossed eight lakh, and Sikkim, which receives more than 17 lakh visitors annually.
The chief minister attributed the decline in Manipur’s tourist inflow to the prevailing law and order situation, saying peace was essential for the revival of the sector.
He said beautification of tourist sites alone would not be sufficient and called for better tourism itineraries and facilities that could meet international standards.
Tourism Minister Khuraijam Loken Singh said tourism could generate significant revenue for the state, while stressing the need for unity among Manipur’s 36 communities for peace and development.
During the programme, Bhalla launched the Manipur Tech Innovation Foundation portal, while Khemchand relaunched the revamped Explore Manipur tourism portal.
The Governor also presented awards to winners of the Re-Imagining Manipur Hackathon, while the chief minister honoured participants of a bike rally organised as part of the celebrations.
MLA Tongbram Robindro Singh called for a community-centred tourism model and greater opportunities for young entrepreneurs to develop locally relevant tourism initiatives.
The programme was attended by Deputy Chief Minister Losii Dikho, Home Minister Govindas Konthoujam, MLAs, senior government officials, police and security officers and local residents.
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