Manipur DGP Reviews Security Arrangements in Ukhrul Ahead of Shirui Lily Festival 2025
News Summary
In preparation for the upcoming Shirui Lily Festival 2025, scheduled from May 20 to 24 in Ukhrul district, Manipur’s Director General of Police (DGP) conducted a two-day visit to assess and enhance security measures. The DGP inspected key police establishments, held high-level meetings with district police officials, and coordinated with Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) and Assam Rifles to ensure a peaceful and secure environment for the festival.
Shirui Lily Festival 2025: A Comprehensive Overview
Introduction to the Shirui Lily Festival
The Shirui Lily Festival is an annual cultural extravaganza held in Ukhrul district, Manipur, celebrating the rare and endangered Shirui Lily (Lilium mackliniae), which blooms exclusively in the Shirui Hills. The festival showcases the rich cultural heritage of the Tangkhul Naga tribe and aims to promote eco-tourism and awareness about the conservation of the Shirui Lily.
Significance of the 2025 Edition
The 2025 edition holds special significance as it marks the first state-level festival since the unrest in May 2023. Organized by the Department of Tourism, Government of Manipur, the festival aims to rejuvenate the cultural spirit and promote unity among communities.
Security Measures and Preparations
To ensure the safety of attendees, the DGP’s visit included inspections of the Superintendent of Police’s office, Ukhrul Police Station, Litan Police Station, and the 6th Manipur Rifles Battalion Headquarters. High-level security meetings were conducted with district police officials, CAPF, and Assam Rifles to coordinate strategies. The DGP emphasized a coordinated approach among all security agencies for the peaceful celebration of the festival.
Transportation and Accessibility
To facilitate travel for participants and visitors, the Manipur State Transport (MST) will operate dedicated bus services from Imphal to Ukhrul during the festival dates. Three buses will ply daily between ISBT, Imphal East, and Shirui Public Ground, Ukhrul, with departures at 7:00 AM, 8:00 AM, and 8:15 AM, and return trips at 1:30 PM, 2:00 PM, and 2:30 PM respectively. The fare for each trip is Rs. 200. Tickets can be booked at ISBT ticket counters, MST offices, or directly from bus conductors on the day of travel.
Festival Highlights
The Shirui Lily Festival 2025 will feature a plethora of cultural programs, including traditional music and dance performances, indigenous sports, art exhibitions, and local cuisine stalls. The festival also aims to promote local entrepreneurs, farmers, and indigenous products, ensuring inclusive participation and economic upliftment of the region.
Community Engagement and Infrastructure Development
The festival’s organizing committee is working closely with local communities to ensure their active participation and benefit from the event. Efforts are being made to develop infrastructure, including accommodation facilities and accessibility features, to cater to the needs of all attendees, including persons with disabilities
Environmental Conservation Efforts
A key objective of the festival is to raise awareness about the conservation of the Shirui Lily and its natural habitat. Educational programs and eco-tourism initiatives will be organized to promote sustainable practices and environmental stewardship among visitors and locals alike.
Conclusion
The Shirui Lily Festival 2025 stands as a beacon of cultural revival and environmental consciousness in Manipur. With comprehensive security arrangements, enhanced infrastructure, and active community involvement, the festival promises to be a harmonious blend of tradition, celebration, and conservation.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What are the dates of the Shirui Lily Festival 2025?
The festival is scheduled to take place from May 20 to 24, 2025, in Ukhrul district, Manipur.
Q2: How can I travel to the festival venue from Imphal?
The Manipur State Transport (MST) will operate dedicated bus services from ISBT, Imphal East, to Shirui Public Ground, Ukhrul, during the festival dates. Three buses will depart daily at 7:00 AM, 8:00 AM, and 8:15 AM, with return trips at 1:30 PM, 2:00 PM, and 2:30 PM respectively. The fare is Rs. 200 per trip.
Q3: What security measures are in place for the festival?
The Manipur DGP has reviewed and coordinated comprehensive security arrangements involving district police, CAPF, and Assam Rifles to ensure the safety and peaceful conduct of the festival.
Q4: What cultural activities can I expect at the festival?
The festival will feature traditional music and dance performances, indigenous sports, art exhibitions, local cuisine stalls, and programs promoting local entrepreneurs and indigenous products.
Q5: Is the festival accessible to persons with disabilities?
Yes, the organizing committee is working on developing infrastructure and facilities to ensure the festival is inclusive and accessible to all attendees, including persons with disabilities.
