Manipur Governor to inaugurate first project under Swadesh Darshan Scheme

Speed Post News Network

New Delhi : Governor of Manipur Dr Najma A Heptulla will on August 14, 2018, inaugurate the project “Development of North East Circuit: Imphal & Khongjom” implemented under the Swadesh Darshan Scheme of Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, in the presence of N Biren Singh, Chief Minister Manipur,  K J Alphons, Union Minister of State (I/C) for Tourism, and Rashmi Verma, Union Tourism Secretary, at Imphal. It is the first project under Swadesh Darshan Scheme being inaugurated in the country.

Swadesh Darshan scheme is one of the flagship scheme of Ministry of tourism for development of thematic circuits in the country in a planned and prioritised manner. The scheme was launched in 2014 -15 and as on date the Ministry has sanctioned 70 projects worth Rs 5,708.88 crore to 29 States and UTs under the Scheme. Thirty projects / major components of these projects are expected to be completed this year.

The Manipur project was sanctioned by the Ministry of  Tourism in September 2015 for Rs 72.30 crore. It covers two sites i.e. Kangla Fort and Khongjom. Kangla Fort is one of the most important historic and archaeological site of Manipur located in the heart of the Imphal city. It served as the seat of Manipur’s power till 1891.  Kangla has a special place in the hearts of the people of Manipur. The old Govindajee Temple, outer and inner moat and other relics are perfect reflections of the rich art and architectural heritage of Manipur.

Khongjom is the place where the last war of resistance of Anglo Manipur War of 1891 was fought.  Under the project a pedestrian bridge and rejuvenation of Kombirei Lake has been carried out for Rs 4.89 crore, according to a PIB release.