Mangolnganbi College pioneers wetland studies course
Source: Chronicle News Service
Imphal, August 17 2024:
In a landmark initiative, Mangolnganbi College, Ningthoukhong in Bishnupur district, has become the first higher educational institution in North East India to introduce an "Add-on Course in Wetland Studies and Management" .
This pioneering programme is aimed at attracting undergraduate, postgraduate, and research students with a keen interest in studying and managing wetlands, which are crucial ecosystems for both human and environmental health.
The course was formally launched at the college auditorium on Saturday, with prominent figures such as chairman of the Technical Committee of Manipur State Wetlands Authority Dr Kh Shamungou, retired principal of Kumbi College K Jugeshor, Manipur International University vice-chancellor professor P Kumar, and environment & climate change director Dr T Brajakumar attending the event.
Supported by the directorate of environment & climate change, the three-month certificate course aims to engage students in various aspects of wetland studies.
It emphasises significance of wetlands in providing essential ecosystem services, such as climate regulation, biodiversity maintenance, and sustainable livelihoods for communities dependent on these ecosystems.
A statement issued by the college authority informed that during the inauguration, Dr T Brajakumar highlighted the importance of wetland studies in understanding the role of these ecosystems in climate regulation.
He pointed out that wetlands play a crucial role in maintaining the equilibrium of biological diversity and supporting sustainable livelihoods.
He also urged students and faculty members to pursue research on wetland flora, fauna, and ecology.
He said that the directorate of environment & climate change is committed to installing a weather station at Mangolnganbi College, and revealed that the directorate so far has already installed 35 such weather stations across the state.
Professor P Kumar emphasised the urgency of studying floral species in wetlands, particularly local aquatic edible species that are rapidly declining in the state., He noted that species like Trapa natans, found in Loktak Lake, are on the verge of extinction in the state.
Salam Rajesh, a member of the IUCN Commission on Environmental, Economic, and Social Policy (CEESP), lauded the college's initiative, describing it as timely and relevant in the context of global warming.
He highlighted the critical role wetlands play in carbon sequestration, noting that peatland soil can store around 4,700 tons of carbon per hectare, compared to just 200 tons in tropical rainforest soil.
Rajesh also expressed concern over the deteriorating state of wetlands in Manipur, citing anthropogenic influences and neglect as major factors contributing to their decline.
He recounted personal experiences of field assessments where several wetlands were found to have either dried up or been reclaimed for human activities.
He stressed the importance of implementing management strategies to protect these valuable ecosystems.
The precarious condition of the natural habitat of Sangai deer at Keibul Lamjao National Park was also highlighted during the event.
Retired principal K Jugeshor called for accurate assessments of the deer population to better understand its current status and develop effective management strategies.
The Sangai is listed as an endangered species in the IUCN Red Data List.
Mangolnganbi College principal and state coordinator for the Indian Bird Conservation Network (IBCN) RK Birjit emphasised the importance of commitment and seriousness among research students interested in wetland ecology and biodiversity.
He said that understanding the dynamics of wetlands is crucial for biodiversity conservation and the continued provision of wetland ecosystem services; which are vital for the survival of both humans and wildlife.
The course content was outlined by assistant professor of Geology Dr L Premananda, who briefed students on the three modules that make up the course.
These modules include field trips to selected wetlands, providing students with hands-on experience in understanding wetland ecology.
Mangolnganbi College's initiative marks a significant step forward in wetland conservation efforts in Manipur and the broader North East region of India.
By fostering a deeper understanding of wetland ecosystems, the college aims to equip the next generation of environmental stewards with the knowledge and skills needed to address the pressing challenges facing these vital natural resources, the statement added.
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