Manipur marks World Environment Day with plantation drives, awareness campaigns and conservation initiatives
Source: The Sangai Express / DIO

Imphal/Kpi/Tml/Kak/Bpr/Kam/Spt, June 06 2026: World Environment Day was observed across Manipur on Friday with a series of plantation drives, awareness programmes and community-led conservation initiatives, highlighting the growing commitment towards environmental protection and climate action.

One of the notable observances was organised by Apunba Imagi Machasing (AIMS), Manipur, at a bamboo plantation site at Mapao Zingsho in Kangpokpi district.

Departing from conventional indoor programmes, the event was held amidst a bamboo-filled natural setting, turning the venue itself into a symbol of environmental conservation.

Speaking on the occasion, AIMS Director Dr Sunil Atom Singh said environmental protection must go beyond speeches and seminars.

"If we want to save the environment, we must work with soil, plants, water, bamboo and local communities," he said, describing bamboo as a living symbol of climate resilience, soil conservation, livelihood and hope for future generations.

The programme was attended by Lt Gen (Retd.) Dr Konsam Himalaya and former Chairman of the Manipur Public Service Commission, as chief guest.

He emphasised that environmental protection requires the active participation of local communities, village leaders, youths and households rather than relying solely on governments and organisations.

Prof Thangjam Robert Singh, Associate Professor, Department of Life Sciences, Manipur University, spoke on the importance of ecological balance, biodiversity, bamboo resources, forests, soil and water conservation.

Mingthing Mawung, Headman of Louphong Village Authority, Kamjong district, and special guest Asheibam Bele also attended the programme.

The event concluded with a vote of thanks by AIMS president Mayanglambam Khelendro Singh.

Meanwhile, People for Animals (PFA), Manipur carried out an underwater observation of Loktak Lake using a camera system to study aquatic vegetation.

According to the organisation, the live monitoring revealed that hydrilla and other aquatic plants continuously release oxygen-rich microbubbles that sustain fish and other aquatic life.

The study also found that excessive sediment and organic deposits covering the plants are obstructing sunlight penetration, affecting photosynthesis and reducing oxygen production.

PFA appealed to the public to prevent pollution and take collective responsibility for preserving the ecological health of the lake.

In Tamenglong district, a World Environment Day programme was organised at the Youth Hall of Tamenglong Baptist Church by The Tamenglong Times, The Gaanphiu Mail and the Tamenglong Forest Division in collaboration with the church's Youth Ministry.

Sponsored by the Directorate of Environment and Climate Change, Government of Manipur, the programme was held under the theme "Inspired by Nature, For Climate, For Our Future" .

The programme featured a sapling plantation drive, environmental pledge and participation from youths, forest officials, media representatives and civic leaders.

World Environment Day was also observed at Kakching Khunou through a joint initiative of the All Kakching Khunou Sports Association (AKSA), Police Outpost Kakching Khunou, Umathel Primary Health Centre and Mera Yuva Bharat, Kakching.

Participants planted various tree saplings and pledged to contribute towards environmental conservation.

Similarly, the Pumlen Lake Development Organisation (PLDO), in association with the Loktak Development Authority and the Directorate of Environment and Climate Change, organised a plantation drive and environmental awareness programme at Tokpaching in Kakching district.

The event also featured the distribution of the 9th Meritorious Students Award to outstanding students from the area.

In Kamjong district, World Environment Day was observed at Kasom Khullen Baptist Church under the initiative of environmental activist Jojo Robertson.

The programme was attended by Kamjong ADC/ADM HL Jain, Divisional Forest Officer Napolean Rongmei, Sub-Divisional Collector Orient Thansing, former Ministry of Education Director MC Worthing and other district officials.

Village chiefs, church leaders, teachers and students also participated.

Around 300 saplings were planted during the event, while experts and officials highlighted the importance of environmental preservation and sustainable development.

In Senapati, Asufii Christian Institute, Mao, observed World Environment Day with a large-scale plantation drive, conducted under the initiative of its Eco Club.

The observance also included the maintenance and nurturing of trees planted during previous environmental campaigns.

Participants engaged in clearing weeds, replenishing manure, cleaning the surroundings, and carrying out other necessary measures to ensure the healthy growth and survival of existing plantations.

The 158 Battalion of Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) along with its companies also organised a tree plantation drive at Senjam Chirang, NSU and Kangchup areas.

The programme was conducted under the leadership of Sanjay Negi, Commandant of 158 Bn CRPF.

During the drive, saplings were planted at various locations as a symbolic and practical step towards enhancing green cover and maintaining ecological balance.

Adding to the day's activities, students of Little Millennium Preschool participated in plantation drives at various locations, including Babina Hospital, Shija Hospitals, Angel Children Hospital and Lamphel Police Station.

Assisted by their teachers, the young students planted saplings and learned the importance of environmental stewardship from an early age.

The widespread observance of World Environment Day across the State reflected a collective commitment towards protecting natural resources, combating climate change and promoting sustainable development for future generations.

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