International Day of Forests celebrated
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, March 23 2026: The Department of Forestry, Manipur University, celebrated the International Day of Forests 2026 under the theme "Forests and Economies", emphasizing the crucial role of forests in sustaining livelihoods and promoting sustainable development.

The event was a collaborative effort to highlight the ecological and economic importance of forests and the need for stronger collaboration between academic institutions and the State Forest Department.

The event was graced by dignitaries, including Rajkumar Amarjit, Conservator of Forests and Special Secretary (Forest Environment and Climate Change), Manipur; Prof Maibam Damyanti Devi, Dean, School of Agricultural Sciences, MU; Vikram Suresh Nadhe, DFO, Central Forest Division, Manipur; and Akham Bombir Dhwahja, retired IFS officer.

On the occasion, several important academic publications were released, including the annual proceedings of ' forestry research, a compendium of abstracts, documentation of departmental developmental works, and a draft book on 'Ethnobotany of Manipur'.

In his welcome address, Dr Vivek Vaishnav outlined recent academic advancements, emphasizing the introduction of "Trees Outside Forests" and urban forestry in the curriculum to address emerging environmental and economic challenges.

Rajkumar Amarjit expressed concern over forest degradation and the lack of proper documentation of Manipur's forest resources, calling for urgent scientific and policy interventions.

The programme concluded with a collective commitment to strengthening research, policy integration, and community participation for sustainable forest management.

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