Imphal/October 09, 2023 (SPN) | Minister for Forest, Environment, and Climate Change, Thongam Biswajit, emphasized the crucial need for active community involvement in the conservation of forests and Wildlife in Manipur.
Thongam Biswajit made these remarks during the closing ceremony of the 69th Wildlife Week Celebration, 2023, held at the Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA) office and data center campus.
As the chief guest, the Minister highlighted that Manipur is a region of great natural beauty, encompassing both the Himalayan Biodiversity Hotspot and Indo-Burma Biodiversity Hotspot. However, he pointed out that centuries of extensive exploitation of natural resources have led to the gradual degradation of this beauty and an increase in environmental calamities.
Biswajit stressed the importance of studying the consequences of excessive deforestation and the visible disasters resulting from ecological imbalances. He noted that individuals residing near forests have a significant responsibility to prevent further deterioration of forest cover and the overexploitation of natural resources.
He emphasized that the preservation of forests and wildlife in Manipur, as well as the restoration of lost natural beauty, require the collective effort of all communities in the state.
The Minister commended the Manipur Forest Department for its progress in preserving forests despite limited manpower. He cited the re-appearance of the State bird, Nongin, as a significant achievement and announced “Our Wildlife Our Pride” as a new slogan for the state.
He also expressed deep concern about the prolonged crisis affecting the state, acknowledging the hardships faced by the common people.
This crisis has had a detrimental impact on various aspects of development, he emphasized.
Seizing the opportunity, Biswajit suggested that embracing a “forgive and forget” mentality among communities could be a path toward restoring peace and normalcy.
Highlighting the importance of a thoughtful approach in all situations, Biswajit also appealed to everyone to refrain from engaging in mob violence and making hurtful remarks or statements. Instead, he encouraged efforts to rebuild peaceful and harmonious relationships among communities.
Furthermore, he called upon all the people of Manipur to actively contribute to the state’s development and progress.
Today’s program was attended by Principal Chief Conservator of Forest and HoFF cum Chief Wildlife Warden, Manipur SS Chhabra, and Additional PCCF (Administration and Planning), Manipur Soreiphy Vashum.
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