CURRENT AFFAIRS
CURRENT AFFAIRS
Description
The Shirui Lily Festival is set to return to Ukhrul district, Manipur, starting May 20, 2025. This edition is particularly significant as it is the first to be held since ethnic tensions erupted in the state in May 2023. The event is seen as a key step toward reviving both tourism and the local economy, which have suffered due to the prolonged unrest. To ensure a peaceful environment, the Manipur government is putting in place robust security arrangements.
A Celebration Of Rare Shirui Lily
Celebrated annually since 2017, the Shirui Lily Festival honours the endemic Shirui Lily flower, found only in the Shirui Hills of Ukhrul. The event has become a cultural highlight, showcasing traditional music, dance performances, competitions, and local cuisine. In 2022, the festival recorded nearly 2.2 lakh visitors, most of whom were from the Meitei-dominated valley regions.
Heightened Security Amid Ethnic Tensions
Due to recent clashes between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities, this year’s festival comes with heightened security measures. The Manipur Tourism Department has set up a special security coordination team led by the Director General of Police (DGP). Personnel from the Manipur Police, BSF, and Indian Army will be stationed along critical travel routes. Road-opening parties will also be deployed to ensure safe movement for festival-goers.
Efforts Toward Community Cooperation
In a move to promote peace and participation, the government has held discussions with civil society organisations from the Kuki-Zo community. Authorities are urging both communities to support the festival. The Deputy Commissioner of Ukhrul has announced that convoy services will be arranged for those reluctant to travel alone, to boost public confidence.
Reviving Local Livelihoods Through Tourism
The ongoing conflict has taken a toll on the region's tourism industry, which many locals rely on. In Shirui village alone, around 100 families operate homestays and camping facilities. Locals hope the festival will bring a much-needed boost to tourism-dependent livelihoods and help rebuild the regional economy.
Digital Promotion To Rebuild Trust
To draw visitors, the Manipur Tourism Department has launched an extensive social media campaign. Travel influencers and content creators have been invited to attend and promote the festival, highlighting the security arrangements and cultural richness. The campaign is aimed at restoring traveller confidence in visiting Ukhrul.
Concerns And Uncertainty Remain
Despite preparations, there is still some public apprehension regarding the festival’s turnout. Locals remain unsure about how many tourists will feel comfortable attending given the recent instability. Much will depend on the atmosphere during the initial days of the event and how well safety measures are implemented.
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