Need to preserve forest, wildlife stressed
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, October 08 2023:
Minister for Forest, Environment and Climate Change, Thongam Biswajit has said that there is need for proactive involvement of locals in preserving forest and wildlife.
Biswajit was speaking at the valedictory function of the 69th Wildlife Week Celebration, 2023 held at the campus of Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA) office and data centre today.
The Minister, speaking as the chief guest, pointed out that Manipur is a picturesque place which shares both the Himalayan Biodiversity Hotspot and Indo-Burma Biodiversity Hotspot.
However, excessive exploitation of the natural resources over the centuries has resulted in gradual degradation of the natural beauties as well as calamities, he noted.
Stressing on the importance of studying the fallouts of the excessive deforestation and visible calamities resulting out of ecological imbalance, Biswajit said people living in close vicinity of forest have a bigger responsibility to prevent further deterioration of forest cover and over exploitation of natural resources.
Undoubtedly a collective responsibility of all communities residing in the State is required to achieve preservation of forest and wildlife and help restore the lost natural beauty and once again share the bounty offered by forest and natural landscapes, he added.
Lauding the progress of Manipur Forest Department in various aspects towards preserving forest in the State despite shortage in manpower, he said it was a momentous achievement for the State and the Forest Department to see re-appearance of State bird Nongin.
Encouraging the staff of the Forest Department to achieve more by streamlining the course of action, he also announced that "Our Wildlife Our Pride" will be a new slogan for the State.
He also expressed regret over the prolonged crisis prevailing in the State and the brunt faced by the common people.
The crisis has badly hit the development aspects, he added.
Taking advantage of the occasion, Biswajit said "forgive and forget" among the communities can be a way forward in restoring peace and normalcy.
Stressing on the need for a conscious approach in any situation, Biswajit also appealed to all to refrain from mob-violence and exchanging spiteful remarks and statements and work towards re-establishing peaceful and cordial relationships among communities.
He also called upon all the people of Manipur to contribute in development and advancement.
Principal Chief Conservator of Forest and HoFF cum Chief Wildlife Warden, Manipur SS Chhabra and Additional PCCF (Administration and Planning), Manipur Soreiphy Vashum also attended the programme.