Deaths of ponies in Kakching raise concern
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, September 29 2026: The death of eight Manipuri ponies in the Wabagai area of Kakching district has caused serious concern among the polo, equine community and pony owners.

Even as samples have been collected for lab testing to confirm the cause, the Manipuri Pony Society and others have called on the Veterinary and Animal Husbandry Department for continuous surveillance and timely intervention.

Addressing members of the press at the Manipur Press Club today, Manipuri Pony Society president Professor Ch Priyoranjan said the reported deaths of the ponies in the Wabagai area of Kakching district are alarming.

Deaths of ponies in Kakching raise concern

The first death was reported on August 13, 2026.While the cause of the deaths has not been ascertained, so far eight ponies have died, he said.

The Department of Veterinary and Animal Husbandry responded to the situation and collected samples from the eight ponies.

The samples collected on September 26 have been sent to the ICAR-National Research Centre on Equines, Sirsa Road, Haryana, for detailed diagnostic examination, Priyoranjan said.

While the test results are being awaited, Veterinary doctors and personnel of the department are currently administering symptomatic treatment to other affected animals, he added.

The affected animals are showing symptoms such as high temperature, dyspnoea, nasal discharge, swelling and coughing, among other symptoms, he said.

While appreciating the response and efforts of the Department of Veterinary and Animal Husbandry, Priyoranjan further stressed the importance of close coordination between the department, pony owners, equestrian organisations and local authorities to contain the disease and save the ponies.

N Ibungochoubi, secretary general of the Manipur Equestrian Association, appealed to all pony owners, equestrian clubs and other stakeholders across the State to remain alert but not panic.

He informed that so far there have been no reports of similar sickness in the animals from Imphal East, Imphal West, Bishnupur and Thoubal districts.

He urged pony owners to carefully observe the health of their animals and immediately report any unusual symptoms, sickness or suspected cases to the Department of Veterinary and Animal Husbandry Services at the earliest.

Early reporting, he said, would enable the Veterinary authorities to examine the animal promptly and take appropriate measures.

The Manipuri Pony occupies a distinctive place in the cultural, historical and sporting traditions of Manipur.

The present situation therefore warrants close attention, responsible reporting and coordinated action by all concerned, he said.

H Deleep Singh, president, Manipur Horse Riding and Polo Association; N Bedajeet Singh, technical chairman.