Imphal: Kangpokpi witnessed a landmark stride towards an eco-friendly and resilient future today as a one-day conclave on Sustainable Agro-Based Livelihood, Resource Management, and Environment Conservation culminated in the adoption of the ‘Kangpokpi Declaration’.
Held at the Oasis College Auditorium in Kanggui Ward No. 9, the event, jointly organised by the Research and Development Cell, Oasis College, and Ka Inn Neocha (KIN) Farm, Bongmol, brought together a formidable assembly of experts, policy thinkers, practitioners, and community leaders.
The conclave commenced with Dr. Thathang Vaiphei, Chairman of the Board of Management, Oasis College, delivering a powerful opening address underscoring the urgent necessity for sustainable agricultural practices and robust environmental stewardship. Ambassador Gautam Mukhopadhaya, IFS (Retd.), then set the stage with an insightful introduction to the day’s comprehensive objectives and sessions. A significant highlight was the online keynote address on natural farming delivered by T. Vijaykumar, IAS (Retd.), Executive Vice Chairman, Andhra Pradesh Ryuthu Sadikara Samstha, offering invaluable perspectives. Further illuminating presentations included David Gandhi’s discourse on Sloping Agriculture Land Technology (SALT), Gratia Dkhar and Bah Phrang Roy from NESFAS shedding light on indigenous food systems, and Michael Suantak from ASORCOM elaborating on leveraging IT in value chains from farm to market.
The afternoon session pivoted to a dynamic brainstorming discussion, with selected invited participants sharing invaluable grassroots experiences and practical strategies. Notable contributors included Hejang Misao (InSIDE NE), Sem Haokip (THRIVE), and Ambassador Mukhopadhaya, fostering a rich exchange of ideas. The session concluded with a focused group discussion on actionable next steps, expertly moderated by Dr. Thathang Vaiphei.
In a decisive outcome, the ‘Kangpokpi Declaration on Sustainable Agro-Based Livelihood, Resource Management, and Environment Conservation’ was officially adopted. This pivotal declaration resolves to initiate a district-wide, nature-based, and inclusive ‘Green Movement’ across Sadar Hills. The movement aims to directly combat pressing environmental challenges such as deforestation, destructive riverbed mining, rampant chemical usage in farming, and widespread poppy cultivation, marking a resolute commitment to environmental remediation.
To spearhead this ambitious initiative, a core team has been constituted with M. Gautam serving as the convenor. The team comprises prominent figures including Dr. Kimneijou, Chichin Haokip, Neinu Kipgen, Dr. Lamtinthang, Hejang Misao, and other respected community leaders. Their immediate mandate is to draft comprehensive policy frameworks, a memorandum of association, and operational guidelines, with a deadline set for July 30, 2025. Further bolstering this collective endeavour, over 30 committed individuals from diverse backgrounds and expertise have been officially declared members of the Green Movement, united by their shared mission to protect and restore the region’s fragile ecosystems. The conclave concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks delivered by Dr. Ruth Nengeneilhing, Principal in-charge, Oasis College, who commended the collective commitment towards a greener and more sustainable future. This nascent movement signifies a historic turning point for Sadar Hills, poised to set a precedent for robust community-led environmental action and sustainable development not just across Manipur, but potentially beyond.
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