Consultation on Sustainable Development and Protection of Natural Resources at Molnoi, Tengnoupal
7th October , 2020
Consultation on Sustainable Development and Protection of Natural Resources at Molnoi, Tengnoupal
The Molnoi Area Welfare Council and the Centre for Research and Advocacy, Manipur jointly organized a community awareness and consultation on Sustainable Development and Protection of Resources at Molnoi, Tengnoupal District, Manipur on 7th October 2020. The meeting was attended by several village chiefs of Molnoi area and representatives of students and women’s organizations.
Mr. Jiten Yumnam, Centre for Research and Advocacy, Manipur, while providing resource input on sustainable development and protection of natural resources shared that Manipur is blessed with natural resources, forest, land, water and other mineral resources.
Mr. Yumnam shared that the indigenous peoples’ traditional and sustainable management of land and natural resources need be promoted for sustainable development. Mr. Yumnam opined the aggressive push for mining in Tengnoupal, Chandel, Ukhrul and Kamjong Areas of Manipur to mine Chromium, Limestone, and Copper etc will destroy the biodiversity of Manipur and inter-generational survival of indigenous communities of Manipur.
Mr. Minlal Haokip, Secretary, Molnoi Area Welfare Council shared development processes in Molnoi and other Tengnoupal areas of Manipur should recognize communities’ rights over their land and resources and take their free, prior and informed consent.
Pu Lhunthang Mate of Zion Village shared that most resources are found in indigenous territories and it is critical that the Government consult and take consent of the traditional village institutions and villagers. He shared the mining plan, Yaingangpokpi Lokchao Wildlife Sanctuary and reserved forest expansion will affect peoples’ traditional management, access and livelihood dependence from their forest land.
Other village chief opined that the Government of India and Manipur should advance the community protection of land and resources. Indigenous peoples should reflect on the multifaceted implications of proposed extractive industries in Manipur to ensure the protection of our land and coming generations.
The participants of the consultation expressed concern that extractive industries like mining of Chromium, Limestone, copper etc in Tengnoupal area will led to destruction of forest, agriculture land, water sources and affect the livelihood of communities.
The participants resolved to stand against any form of mining in Manipur without recognition of right over land and resources and peoples consent. Participants further affirms that land is indigenous peoples’ source of survival, culture and identity. Sustainable development should be rooted in the respect of peoples’ wishes and rights and protection of environmental integrity.
(Minlal Haokip)
Secretary
Moinoi Area Welfare Council
Centre For Research And Advocacy, Manipur
Molnoi Village, Imphal – Moreh Road,
Tengnoupal District, Manipur Pin: 795135
* This Press Release was sent to e-pao.net by Centre for Research and Advocacy, Manipur who can be contacted at cra(DOT)manipur(AT)gmail(DOT)com
This Press Release was posted on 08 October 2020
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