Preserve culture, tradition : Biren

Imphal, Aug 18 (DIPR)
Chief Minister N Biren Singh has maintained that his Government is seriously concerned about illegal migration and drugs issues in the State and as such, the Government has taken up necessary steps to monitor and check these.
He made the statement this while attending the 2nd Dr L Bhagyachandra (Ihilel) Memorial Lecture on "Status of Indigenous Peoples: A Case Study of Meetei" which was held at Kangla Hall today.
Speaking as the chief guest, N Biren said that illegal migrants could be a serious threat to the peaceful existence of the indigenous people of the State, and appealed to the public to come forward in finding out the motive of such illegal migrants.
 In this regard, Special Units to be headed by an Addl SP or Dy SP, will be set up to carry out routine checking at vulnerable locations of the State, the CM added.
He also raised concerns about youth getting addicted to drugs, deteriorating culture and traditions of the State, while urging every community in the State to give collective efforts in wiping out the drug culture.
It is high time for every community to assimilate the rich culture and tradition, which have been the backbone of existence of the State for thousands of years, to the youth, he added.
While stressing the importance of the lecture programme in connection with the present situation of the State, the Chief Minister said that the Government, with the motive of educating about culture and traditions from the grassroots level, started the development of Model Schools.
Citing the reason of the present chaos in the State as due to the non preservation of the rich culture by the people, he stated that everyone should have an aim in their life and contribute to the development of the society.
N Biren also praised late Dr L Bhagyachandra for his far vision and contribution towards preserving and promoting the rich philosophy, culture and tradition of the State.
Dr L Bhagyachandra is still remembered for his immense work in the field philosophy, politics, culture and tradition, Biren added.
The lecture programme was organised by Research Forum Manipur in collaboration with State Archaeology, Government of Manipur. Health Minister Langpoklakpam Jayantakumar, Director, Art and Culture, A Shivadas Sharma, former president, Research Forum Manipur Dr Ningthoujam Birachandra and Mutua Bahadur and vice president, Research Forum Manipur Prof Ch Ibohal Meitei, among others, attended the programme.
Retd Prof Wangkhem Nabakumar also delivered a lecture on "Status of Indigenous Peoples: A Case Study of Meetei" at the event.