President Pranab Mukherjee pays homage at the Khongjom War Memorial in Thoubal district on Saturday. PTI

Imphal, April 23

President Pranab Mukherjee today praised the people of Manipur for their broad tolerance, pluralism and acceptance of universalism.“Truly, it (Manipur) is Jewel of India. It is not only for its rich culture variety or pristine beauty, for its brave men and women, but for its broad tolerance, pluralism, celebration of pluralism and acceptance of universalism,”he said.The President was here to participate in ‘Khongjom Day Observation’, observed every year to pay tribute to the brave sons of the state who made supreme sacrifice for the cause of their motherland.He also inaugurated Khongjom War Memorial and laid wreath there. Manipur is the place which is not only known for its blue hills and pristine beauty but for the endurance, tolerance and determination, he said. In the function, Mukherjee offered tributes to the fierce patriots from the state who fought the last battle of the Anglo-Manipuri War of 1891. “I join you in paying homage to the great sons and daughters of Manipur. They gave their today for our tomorrow,” he said. — PTI