State-Level Workshop tackles Human-Wildlife Conflict in Manipur
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, February 04 2026: A State-Level Workshop focused on addressing the growing challenges of human-wildlife conflict (HWC) in Manipur was conducted on Tuesday at the Forest Headquarters in Sanjenthong, Imphal.

The workshop aimed to evolve effective mitigation and management strategies for the issue.

The workshop was graced by Anurag Bajpai, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests & HOFF and Additional Chief Secretary, Government of Manipur; Soreiphy Vasum, Additional Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and L Joykumar Singh, Chief Conservator of Forests, Wildlife as the chief guest, president & guest of honour respectively.

State-Level Workshop tackles Human-Wildlife Conflict in Manipur

The workshop was a collaborative effort, bringing together various stakeholders including senior forest officers, officers from line departments, members of Panchayati Raj Institutions, wildlife experts, and representatives from the Wildlife Institute of India and various NGOs.

Deliberations focused on the current status of HWC in Manipur, species-specific conflict issues, role of technology, role of community in mitigating conflicts, compensation mechanisms, early warning systems and interdepartmental coordination.

Speaking on the occasion, Anurag Bajpai highlighted that HWC is becoming a structural issue in the State, particularly in hill districts.

He emphasized that conflicts often arise due to shrinking habitats and disturbed food sources, driven by factors such as shifting cultivation, roads, and settlements.

He stressed the need for systematic documentation, mapping conflict hotspots, and transparent compensation frameworks.

He highlighted Manipur's hopeful examples of community-led.

conservation and wildlife protection, showing coexistence is possible when people are partners, not victims.

He suggested strengthening conflict mitigation measures like solar fencing and crop protection techniques, alongside fair compensation and habitat restoration.

"The key lies in integrating HWC into development planning, designing a future where both humans and wildlife thrive with dignity.

Protecting wildlife ultimately protects our forests, climate, culture, and future generations", added Bajpai.

Participants shared field experiences and challenges, discussing policy interventions and sustainable solutions through habitat management and community involvement.

The workshop concluded with panel discussions, yielding key recommendations to improve preparedness, response, and mitigation measures for human-wildlife conflict in Manipur.