Imphal, Aug 12: Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports, Mansukh Mandaviya, concluded his two-day visit to Manipur with a tour of the iconic Loktak Lake, focusing on the Loktak Lake Front Garden and the temporary jetty. During his visit, the Minister was warmly received by young athletes specializing in rowing, canoeing, and kayaking at the Regional Water Sports Complex, Takmu.

The Minister was greeted by a high-level state government delegation, including K. Govindas, Minister for Public Works Department and Youth Affairs & Sports; L. Susindro Meitei, Minister for Public Health Engineering Department (PHED) and Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution (CAF&PD); L. Shanti Singh, MLA of Moirang; and M. Asnikumar Singh, Chairman of the Loktak Development Authority (LDA). They were joined by LDA officials, villagers, community leaders, and athletes.

During a formal ceremony, Mandaviya was presented with a painting, traditional handicrafts, and a traditional headgear by Meitei, Singh, and Asnikumar Singh, respectively. The Union Minister then engaged with athletes from the Regional Water Sports Complex, who raised concerns about inadequate equipment and facilities. Asnikumar Singh, also President of the Bishnupur District Canoeing & Kayaking Association, submitted a memorandum requesting sponsorship for a national championship in water sports at the complex. Mandaviya responded positively to the request.

The Minister assured the delegation that existing facilities would be upgraded, either through the SAI’s Center of Excellence in Water Sports or by developing the complex as a campus of the National Sports University, Imphal. He highlighted the Modi government’s commitment to nurturing youth talent and expressed enthusiasm about the potential of young athletes from the Loktak Lake area.

Mandaviya also discussed with state officials the importance of preserving Loktak Lake as a natural treasure. He pledged support for its rejuvenation, conservation, and sustainable development to support local livelihoods.

Before concluding his visit, Mandaviya expressed plans to return in the coming months to visit the Keibul Lamjao National Park, Karang Island, INA HQ Moirang, and to engage further with local communities and explore the cultural heritage of Loktak Lake and Moirang.