Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, July 17 2010:
The third State Level Pine-apple festival held at Thambalnu Market, Yairipok since July 23 concluded today.
Speaking at the concluding function as chief guest, Imphal East DC M Lakshmi-kumar said that he would look into the possibility of giving Government recognition to the pine-apple festival.
The five-day long festival was organised by the Development Organisation Andro Kendra.
The first and second prizes of the festival were won by Hijam Brojen and Loitongbam Tharongou respectively while third prize was shared between K Gopal and L Tunal.
Lakshmikumar said that pineapples available in Andro are famous and tasty.
He exhorted farmers to raise pine-apple productivity by cultivating the fruit extensively on the vacant hill slopes available in Imphal East district.
The DC also sought attention of the relevant officials and individuals to pay more attention towards processing and packing pine-apples products for export outside the State.
Horticulture Mission Director Kh Ratankumar said that the festival can receive Government recognition after constituting a committee with the DC as chairman.
Once recognised by the Government, incentives will be available for organising the festival.
Ratankumar said that Horticulture Department has sanctioned Rs two lakhs for the festival.
The closing function also featured a Shumang Leela play.