Ukhrul, Dec 7: The third edition of Phungcham Haofa Phanit was celebrated on Friday at Phungcham Village, Ukhrul District, Manipur. The festival was organized by Phungcham Haofa Lovers Association (PHLA) in collaboration with Phungcham Village Authority, Phungcham Village Development Council, Phungcham Shanao Long, and Phungcham Katamnao Mayar Ngala Long.
Khashim Vashum, Minister of Veterinary & Animal Husbandry and Transport, Manipur attended the celebration as the Chief Guest. Several dignitaries including Kengoo Zuringla (IAS), Deputy Commissioner of Ukhrul, Hannah Kamei (IAS), Additional Secretary Veterinary & Animal Husbandry and Director of Tribal Affairs and Hills, Government of Manipur, and Dr. Lois Hongray, I/C Joint Director, Veterinary Department of Ukhrul and Kamjong Districts were the guests of honor in the event which was graced by Tuireising Horam, Headman of Phungcham Village as the chief host.
The chief guest of the celebration, who also serves as the Minister of Veterinary and Animal Husbandry and Transport in Manipur, stated, “Haofa, an indigenous canine breed of the Tangkhul community, represents more than just Phungcham village or the Tangkhul community; it is a significant part of the state’s identity.” He added, “This celebration holds deep meaning that encompasses the identity of all the people in our state.”
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The Minister called upon everyone to support the endeavors of Phungcham villagers to promote and preserve the native canine breed and all meat lovers to refrain from slaughtering and consuming the Haofa meat. He further appealed to the gathering to nurture, protect, and preserve Hoafa, allowing it to live a full life and only let it die a natural death.
Moreover, he informed that his department, in collaboration with the Central Agricultural University (CAU), Imphal, was making every effort to register the Haofa with the National Bureau of Animal Genetic Resources (NBAGR) in Haryana. “I am hopeful that the process for registering Haofa as an indigenous canine breed of the Tangkhul community will be successful and contribute to its promotion and preservation”.
Kengoo Zuringla (IAS), Deputy Commissioner of Ukhrul, stated, “I don’t have much experience or information on the characteristics of Haofa. But at last year’s festival, I received a Haofa puppy. It has grown into an adorable dog and is very friendly. It is very obedient and intelligent and I believe we can train Haofa to do tricks and it will be amazing to see Haofa performing tricks and participating in the next edition of Haofa Phanit.” She also appealed to the gathering to treat Haofa with love and care by giving the best food and attention.
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Hannah Kamei stated that she was honored to attend the third edition of Phungcham Haofa Phanit and found the cultural display unique and significant. She added, “Our culture, Our identity. The rice pounding and ‘lungkotla’ remind me of my childhood because I grew up doing all those activities. We should continue to preserve and promote our culture. Promoting and preserving Haofa is a significant symbol of humanity and I would like to thank all the villagers and Haofa owners. Our veterinary department will extend support even in the days to come.”
Hannah Kamei’s rendition of Rongmei song captivated the gathering. She also presented a sewing machine each to Phungcham Shanao Long and Paorei Shanao Long.
The Haofa Award 2024 was presented to local breeder Luckyson Yangya for rearing his “Ruby” as the most outstanding female Haofa while Shangthei Yangya was awarded for his “Tiger” the most remarkable male Haofa of the village.
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The Veterinary Department conducted a vaccination program during the festival. Around 100 dogs were given anti-rabies vaccines and other medical attention.
The festival was also attended by Dinringam Kamei, SDO Ukhrul, Duna Duo, SDO Jessami, Roland Ningshen, SDO Chingai, Gitla Laishram, DFO Ukhrul, Ayekpam Maninganba Meetei, Engineer, NHIDCL, Chairman from neighboring villages of Peh, Paorei and Varangalai.
Popular Tangkhul artists, Oshim Soho, Nimshimphi Muivah, Winso Chamroy, and Shimshang Pheirei enthralled the gathering with their performance.
The Phungcham Haofa Phanit is organized every year in December to serve as a reminder to promote and preserve Haofa. Hao Sevices Ukhrul and Kapong Art & Craft were the event partners of the festival.
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