Imphal, August 16, 2010: Amidst tight security as usual, the State Government celebrated the 64th Independence Day yesterday in different parts of the State as in the rest of the country.

The main function was held at 1st MR parade ground where the Chief Minister unfurled the National flag.

The main feature of the Independence Day celebration was march past by 41 different contingents including school students, police, BSF, CRPF, NCC band parties, civil defence etc.

Speaking at the occasion, Chief Minister O Ibobi stated that India has been maintaining a healthy economic growth over the last few years.

In the last seven consecutive years, the economy grew by 8 per cent.

Issues and problems being faced by the State were highlighted in the 55th National Development Council meeting held at Vigyan Bhavan, New Delhi recently.

The need to develop NH-39, NH-53 and NH-150 were also explained at the meeting.

In response, the Centre assured the State Government to develop these highways.

The Chief Minister stated that the Government has set a target of completing the Jiri-Tupul railway line by 2014 and to extend it till Imphal by 2016. Even as both the State Government and the Central Government have been working hard to develop the State, frequent bandhs and blockades imposed by some organisations have been impeding the pace of development, Ibobi iterated.

Any section of people should not impose bandhs or blockades in their own interests which would affect normal live of the general public.

There is also a ruling of the Supreme Court which bans bandhs, the Chief Minister pointed out.

Exhorting that due chances should be given to resolve all differences through dialogue, he claimed that the national heritage of Kangla Fort has been properly restored/repaired together with opening of a museum.

The Government is giving more attention to preservation of cultural sites while at the time same time making persistent efforts to promote the rich culture and tradition of the State as well as the promising field of games and sports, Ibobi stated.

Construction works of Ima Markets which are closely related with the tradition of Manipur are nearing completed and they would be inaugurated shortly.

The integrated check post which would be opened at Moreh would be of immense importance while implementing the Government of India's Look East Policy.

Talking of de-centralisation of power to the Autonomous District Councils, the Chief Minister said that the matter is being examined by a committee constituted by the Government.

He said that the Government is contemplating empowerment of ADC's to the same status as those of other Northeastern States where Sixth Schedule is in force.

Later, the Chief Minister distributed Police Medal for Gallantry Award to 20 officers and personnel of Manipur Police.

The Independence Day celebration was also attended by the Speaker and the Deputy Speaker of the State Assembly, MLAs, Chairmen and top civil and police officials.

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