Northeast Desk, 2nd February: Minister of Forest, Environment, and Climate Change, Thongam Biswajit, highlighted the growing environmental concerns due to anthropogenic factors and emphasized the need for people to treat mother earth as a priceless asset. Speaking at the World Wetlands Day observance ceremony organized by the Directorate of Environment and Climate Change, he stressed the accountability of every individual in protecting nature and the environment.
The event, held at NIT East Campus, Lamphelpat, under Imphal West district, focused on the theme “Wetlands and Human Wellbeing.” Biswajit mentioned Manipur’s vulnerability to climate change despite its abundant natural resources. The state government has taken various measures, including a climate-resilient action plan, the formation of a wetland committee, and river rejuvenation programs.
He highlighted the successful rejuvenation of the Nambul River and announced plans for the revitalization of Imphal and Kongba rivers. The director of Environment and Climate Change, Dr. T Brajakumar Singh, presented the keynote address, emphasizing the pivotal role of wetlands in maintaining micro-climatic conditions, controlling floods, sequestering carbon, and supporting biodiversity.
Dr. Singh mentioned the global initiative for the protection and revival of ecosystems, declaring 2021-2030 as the decade of Ecosystem Restoration. Out of 708 wetlands identified in the National Wetlands Atlas 2009 from Manipur, 23 have been recommended for sustainable management. Seven wetlands are in the process of being notified as state priority, with project activities initiated in four wetlands. A spot painting competition on the theme “Wetlands and Manipur” was also held as part of the program.