Manipur steps up efforts to protect Sangai with wildlife census training
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, February 20 2026: A two-day intensive training programme focused on the mean population estimation of the endangered Sangai and associated species commenced today at the Manipur Zoological Garden in Imphal.

As per a release issued by Manipur Forest Department, the initiative aims to equip researchers and field staff with robust scientific methodologies for assessing wildlife populations within the Keibul Lamjao National Park, the only natural habitat of Sangai.

The programme was formally inaugurated by L Joykumar Singh, Chief Conservator of Forests, Wildlife, Government of Manipur.

In his address, Joykumar underscored the critical need for accurate population assessments to monitor the conservation status of the Sangai, the State animal of Manipur, and other species like the Hog Deer and Wild Pig.

He stressed the importance of collaborative efforts among all stakeholders to strengthen wildlife management strategies.

The training, organised by the Wildlife Wing of the Manipur Forest Department in collaboration with die Wildlife Institute of India and various NGOs, includes sessions on scientific principles, species identification, and data collection protocols.

Participants, including researchers, university scholars, volunteers, and forest staff, will receive hands-on training in suryey techniques and statistical approaches.

A mock census training exercise is scheduled to take place at the Keibul Lamjao National Park on Saturday, February 23, ahead of the actual field assessment which is scheduled from February 23 to February 27, 2026 .

Officials noted that enhancing technical expertise among field personnel is essential for achieving positive conservation outcomes for the iconic brow-antlered deer (Rucervus eldii eldii) endemic to the park's floating meadows (phumdis) .

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