<span style="color: #222222;">Manipur celebrated today the 73rd Independence Day with the rest of the country. State Chief Minister Nongthombam Biren Singh hoisted the tricolour at the First Manipur Rifles Parade Ground at Moirangkhom in the state capital Imphal where the state level celebration of the country's 73rd Independence Day was held today.<br />''<br />''Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Minister said, Manipur is moving forward on the path of development as an integral part of strong Indian nation. He said, the Government in the State has successfully created an administrative atmosphere to undo developmental disparity between the hill and valley areas. <br />''<br />''The Chief Minister also said, State Government is committed to root out the drug problem from Manipur and an anti-intoxicant campaign is going on throughout the state against narcotic drugs and alcohol. <br />''<br />''The Chief Minister also received salute of a colourful march-past parade of 66 contingents representing Manipur Police, Manipur Rifles, Para-military forces, NCC, State Government Departments and educational institutions. State Ministers, MLAs and top officials of civil and police administration also participated in the function.</span><br />