Importance of Loktak, wildlife conservation stressed
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, October 06 2024: As part of the 70th Wildlife Week celebration, an interactive programme focusing on 'The Importance of Loktak Lake, a Ramsar Site' was organised by Bishnupur Forest Division in collaboration with Loktak Development Authority (LDA) at Sendra, Loktak Lake on Sunday.

The event is aimed at raising awareness about wildlife conservation, with special emphasis on the theme Wildlife Conservation through Co-existence,' and addressing the effects of climate change and human activities on Loktak Lake's fragile ecosystem and the wildlife it supports.

As chief guest of the programme LDA chairman M Asnikumar highlighted the country's efforts and strides made in wildlife conservation, referencing key legislative steps such as the Indian Forest Act of 1927 and the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972.He credited visionary leaderships of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and union minister for environment, forest and climate change Bhupender Yadav for the advancement made in conservation efforts balancing the needs of wildlife, habitats, and local communities.

Reflecting on the ecological significance of Loktak Lake, Asnikumar called it the "cradle of Manipuri civilisation" and stressed its importance in supporting a rich diversity of flora and fauna, including the endangered Sangai deer found only in Keibul Lamjao National Park.

While expressing concern over pressures the lake faces due to anthropogenic activities, particularly the adverse impact of the Ithai Barrage, he called for sustainable development policies to protect the lake's delicate ecosystem.

The chairman also encouraged students for proactive role in environmental conservation, calling them 'future leaders' and 'agents of change', and appealed to the.

young generation to engage in activism, education, and community involvement to drive forward the conservation of Loktak Lake.

He further elaborated on the state government's initiatives under CM Biren to elevate Loktak Lake as an iconic global Wetland.

These efforts, he noted, focus on sustainability, biodiversity preservation, and securing livelihoods for communities dependent on the lake.

Among others, the programme was attended Bishnupur DFO Waikhom Romabai, LDA executive engineer Th Nandagram, forest department officials and staff, and students from the surrounding areas of Loktak Lake.

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