LDA observes wetlands day; Waterbird Census report released
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, February 02 2025: The Loktak Development Authority (LDA) on Sunday observed World Wetlands Day-2025 at Sendra, Bishnupur district, under the global theme 'Protecting Wetlands for Our Common Future'.

The observance function was held with Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla and works minister Konthoujam Govindas as chief guest and president respectively, and attended by Kumbi MLA Sanasam Premchandra, LDA chairman M Asnikumar, senior government officials, forest and environment department representatives, 59 Mountain Brigade commander Brigadier AA Ukidwe, principal chief conservator of forests Anurag Bajpai, principal secretary (forest, environment & climate change) Arun Kumar Sinha, health commissioner Sumant, special secretary (forest, environment & climate change) RK Amarjit, DC & SP of Bishnupur district, as well as community leaders, women's groups, youth volunteers, students, and NCC cadets.

LDA observes wetlands day; Waterbird Census report released

The observance held in the presence of government officials, environmentalists, community leaders, students, and conservationists began with a formal welcome ceremony, followed by lighting of the ceremonial lamp by the Governor, accompanied by a traditional welcome folk song and Thougal Jagoi (folk dance) .

In his keynote address, Asnikumar highlighted deep cultural, ecological, and socio-economic significance of Loktak Lake, initiatives taken by LDA and the state government to restore and conserve the lake, the largest freshwater body in Northeast India and a Ramsar site of international importance, stating that Loktak is not just an ecological treasure but a symbol of the state's rich heritage.

He emphasised that efforts are being made to ensure its sustainable management for future generations.

Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla in his speech emphasised the importance of community participation and involvement of youth in conservation efforts.

Comparing Loktak to a mother, he said that it is the collective responsibility of the people to protect and care for it.

He urged the government, environmental groups, and local communities to work together to safeguard the lake, reinforcing the message that Loktak's protection is essential for future generations.

Meanwhile, Anurag Bajpai spoke on conservation challenges while identifying deforestation, illegal stone and sand mining, and the rampant cultivation of poppy in the catchment and hill areas as major threats to Loktak's ecological balance.

He stressed the urgent need for coordinated conservation efforts and strict regulatory measures to curb these destructive activities.

Addressing the gathering, minister Govindas underscored the need for collective responsibility in conserving Loktak Lake.

He also held NHPC accountable for the ecological disruptions caused by the Loktak Hydroelectric Project, stating that the project has significantly altered the lake's ecosystem, leading to its deterioration, and called for NHPC to contribute to restoration efforts.

As a part of the event, the Governor also released Waterbirds Census Report and a booklet on the Waterbirds of Loktak, which provide insights into the bird diversity of Loktak Lake and the need to preserve its wetland habitats.

Meanwhile, Kumbi College retired principal Kumam Jugeshwor; member of IUCN and Commission on Environmental, Economic & Social Policy Salam Rajesh; Mangolnganbi College principal and state coordinator of the Asian Waterbird Census Rajkumar Birjit; and president of Wildlife Explorers, Manipur, Khoyumthem Brajesh Kumar were honoured with citations and awards for their outstanding contributions to wetland conservation.

Organisational awards were conferred on Environmental Social Reformation & Sangai Protection Forum, the Champu Khangpok Floating Village Conservation & Management Committee, and the Green Brigade of Toubul for dedication and efforts to protecting and restoring the Loktak ecosystem.

As part of the conservation initiative, the Governor, along with the minister, LDA chairman, and other dignitaries, released fish fingerlings in the lake to replenish fish population, restore aquatic biodiversity, and support locals dependent on fisheries.

It is a key element of LDA's broader conservation strategy to enhance Loktak's ecological balance while ensuring food security for local communities.