The Imphal Peace Museum (IPM), located at the foothill of Maibam Lokpa Ching, popularly known as Red Hill about 20 km south of Imphal, an area that saw fierce fighting during World War II, celebrated its third anniversary. The event was co-organised by Manipur Tourism and 2WWICF and supported by Tourism Department, Govt of Manipur.
Governor La Ganesan has said that Imphal Peace Museum at Maibam Lotpa Ching is a sacred place and is famous as a site where the Japanese Army fought the allied forces till their last breath during the 2nd World War.
Speaking at the 3rd anniversary celebration of Imphal Peace Museum held today at Maibam Lotpa Ching, the Governor said that Maibam Lotpa Ching (or the Red Hills) is a historic war memorial site of the Battle of Imphal, an important branch of WW-II that took place in Nambol, Manipur.
Lauding the efforts made by Manipur Tourism Forum in establishing the Peace Museum, Governor La Ganesan added that the museum displays and depicts hardships experienced by the people of Manipur and how they had to flee from the ravages of war.
Subsequently, this has become one of the most visited tourist spots in Manipur, the Governor said.
The Imphal Peace Museum has become a hallmark of the strong historical connection which the people of Manipur have with Japan, he added.
Expressing the need to conduct more research on the battle sites, the Governor said, "These sites need to be preserved and restored with proper memorials so that future generations can understand the sacrifices made from both sides while also spreading the message of peace and affirming that war benefits no nation".
Governor La Ganesan further said that the States of North East are blessed with nature’s bounty. The tremendous potential for tourism in the region needs to be explored for the economic growth and prosperity of the people. This can be an event to make Manipur known to many parts of the world and to make Manipur a WW-II heritage site and attract tourists from across the globe, the Governor opined.
Earlier, the Governor also toured the museum and witnessed the old war related artifacts on display.
Commissioner (Tourism) PK Jha spoke on the shared and common history of India and Japan especially with Manipur.
Kawazu Kunihiko, Charge d’Affairs, Minister & Deputy Chief of Mission, Embassy of Japan, Atusushi Sunami, president, Sasakawa Peace Foundation and representatives of Nippon Foundation, Japan, among others, participated in the celebration.
The museum is a symbol of peace and reconciliation. It recounts the events of the battle, and displays artillery shells and other artifacts collected by local people.
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