Source: Hueiyen News Service
Imphal, November 25 2010:
The need for protection of historically important places in the state was stressed upon by speakers at the function organized to mark the observance of the "World Heritage Week" at Ningol Khul in Thoubal district today.
Manipur State Archeology under the aegis of the state Art and Culture Department organized the function at Ningol Khul which was once a famous salt producing centre of the state.
The village was one of the places in the state where salt was produced in large scale.
In his speech as chief guest of the function, Dr L Kunjeshwori, associate professor, Manipur University history department, recalled that Ningol Khul was earmarked as one of the salt producing centres since the period of King Garibiniwaj who ruled Manipur 300 year back.
During his rule, stones were erected in the village to mark the importance of the place.
Such historical places need to be protected for conservation, she said.
Speaking on the good quality of the salt produced from the place, she said that many ingredients, good for health are included in the salt produced from this place.
"Our forefathers knew it and till late post-natal women use to consume this salt" .
To understand the technique used to extract salt in this place, keeping in view the need for preservation of the place, is the need of the hour.
If this can be done, it will not only benefit the state but also help in protecting the site as a state's heritage site, she observed.
Superintendent of Archeology, S Bheigyachandra who spoke as president of the function announced that authority of state archaeology will take up work for preservation of Ningol village joining hands with the village club.
A proposal for financial assistance for looking after the stones erected in the village will also be considered.
Mutuwa Museum director, Mutuwa Bahadur speaking on the occasion as guest of honour also stressed upon the need for taking up work for preservation of such heritage sites recalling the past stories of the village.
He appealed to the villagers of Ningol village to take a major role in protecting and preserving the heritage site reminding that without the effort of the villagers, it will not be possible in conserving the site for future generations.