Ministry approves IMP for Loktak: Asnikumar
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, March 19 2024: The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) has approved the Integrated Management Plan (IMP) for Loktak lake, a major achievement in the mission to promote ecological integrity and sustainable benefits of the lake.

Informing this to media persons, Loktak Development Authority (LDA) chairman M Asnikumar said IMP for Loktak lake was approved as part of steps taken up by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to revive and safeguard wetlands and mangroves of the nation.

This significant milestone has garnered an endorsement from the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, under the National Plan for Conservation of Aquatic Ecosystems (NPCA) scheme, aimed at conservation and management of wetlands, he said adding that the approval letter was presented during a meeting with senior officials of MoEFCC in New Delhi.

This approval signifies a significant stride in LDA's commitment to safeguarding Loktak lake's ecological integrity while fostering sustainable societal benefits.

It integrates the full spectrum of ecosystem services and biodiversity values of the wetland complex into our land and water resource management and developmental planning processes.

This approach aligns with the wise use principles outlined in the Ramsar Convention, emphasizing the preservation of ecological character through ecosystem-based approaches within the framework of sustainable development, Asnikumar said.

According to the chairman, the approval marks a historic moment for the LDA and its relentless efforts towards conservation and rejuvenation of Loktak lake and its associated wetlands.

Beyond ensuring the sustainable utilization of Loktak lake resources, the IMP also guarantees livelihood opportunities for those reliant on the lake for sustenance, he added.

The IMP will focus on several key areas including institutions and governance.

land and water management; species conservation and habitat management and sustainable resource development & livelihood.

It encompasses various actions such as delisting Loktak lake from the Montreux Record, integrated wetland inventory, assessment & monitoring system, constitution of scientific advisory, communication & outreach programmes, implementation of water allocation plan, rejuvenating the natural drainage system, removing Phumdis, maintaining the open water regime, improving water quality, afforestation in the catchment area, consolidating Keibul Lamjao National Park boundaries, etc.

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