At the initiative of the horticulture department, a competition cum festival called Orange festival was organised on Friday (December 11) at the Tamenglong district headquarters here.

The festival aimed at promoting the cultivation of the fruit, which has opened the gates of opportunity for the farmers.

Vice Chairman of Hill Area Committee of the Manipur Legislative Assembly Khangthuanang Panmei, inaugurated the orange festival.

In the festival, a total of 200 stalls displayed the large quantity of oranges produced.

Delegates and the authorities from the horticulture department of the state government announced a grant of Rs 36 Million (750,000 dollars) for the promotion of orange cultivation.

The orange farmers were delighted at the festival as it provided them a platform.

"Oranges are the best for us. With the government support and facilities, the orange cultivation has become our livelihood," said Karunaia, an orange grower

Official said that the farmers deserve all the support and market opportunities.

"Actually all the orange growers were willing to participate in this orange festival since they are the main beneficiary (of such events). They eagerly put their oranges in the competition. They became exemplary as they are such hard workers." said Kadithung, a member of the organiser committee of the orange festival.

People thronged the stalls and appreciated the festival.

To add colour to the festival, the "orange queen" beauty pageant was also organised, which became the highlight of the event and was instrumental in attracting a larger audience.

Source: thaindian.com