Yening Animal Foundation observes anniversary, Forest Min reiterates preserving environment
Source: The Sangai Express / DIPR
Imphal, June 28 2018:
Forest and Environment Minister Thounaojam Shyamkumar conveyed the importance of saving environment for a better future.
Minister Shyamkumar was speaking as chief guest at the first Foundation Day celebration of Yening Animal Foundation (YAF) at the MSFDS, Palace Compound, Imphal.
The celebration was held on the theme 'Better Environment, Better Life, Better Future'.
Addressing the gathering, Forest and Environment Minister said environmental care is a noble initiative that requires all and sundry to be actively involved.
Speaking on exploitation of the environment by humans in due process of modernisation, he said over exploitation of the environment has rose the atmospheric and global temperatures, which has in turn resulted to extreme weather conditions, which has also been witnessed in the past few years.
It has led to extinction of wildlife animals and causing threats to plants, he added.
He opined that the future generation will indeed enjoy and appreciate the environment conservation efforts of the present generation as future is guaranteed if the environment is safeguarded and preserved at the present time.
Speaking at the function, Khurai MLA L Susindro Meitei said he is planning to develop a wildlife sanctuary at the Chingkhei Ching, Khurai (where presence of large number of deers is reported), for which he is consulting with the Government.
He said there is also a plan to develop a tourist spot on top of Chingkhei Ching with the MLA Local Area Development Fund, in order to welcome tourists and conserve wildlife.
DJN Anand, PCCF (Wildlife) & Chief Wildlife Warden elaborated on the challenges while facing illegal wildlife trade, which is threatening to overturn decades of conservation gains.
He also stressed on the need to stop rampant trafficking of wildlife and animal parts in the country including the State.
He further spoke on how women, including elected members, can play a pivotal role in the rural sector to spread awareness regarding wildlife and environmental conservation.
Youths also need to come forward and massive awareness is required, he opined.
As part of the function, 16 persons of different age groups were given certification award for their role in rescuing operation of animals.
A painting competition was also held for school children as part of the Foundation Day celebration.
Sapna Laishram, Chairperson, Yening Animal Foundation, officials of Forest Department, students of various schools and members of Yening Animal Foundation attended the function.
Established on June 9, Yening Animal Foundation, located at Khurai Lamlong Bazar is working with a mission to touch the heart, mind and soul of the society to spread the love of environment and with a vision to act responsibly.
Some of the objectives of the YAF include assisting the social groups and individual to acquire knowledge of pollution and environmental degradation, provide a place for lost or abandoned animals, conserve indigenous and endangered plants and animals and conserve Manipuri Pony at its home tract among others.