Need separate budget for ponies: Prof Priyoranjan
Source: Chronicle News Service
Imphal, June 07 2024:
As it is impossible to save Manipuri ponies sans proper feeding grounds and support of the people, there is the need to allocate a separate budget for the protection of ponies under the Veterinary Department, said Manipur Pony Society president Prof Ch Priyoranjan.
In a joint press meet of Manipur Equestrian Association, Manipur Pony Society and Manipur Horse Riding & Polo Association held at the latter's Lamphelpat office on Friday, Prof Priyoranjan raised concern over survival of Manipuri ponies.
He continued that under the Manipur Pony Conservation and Development Policy, various steps have been taken up to conserve the horses including setting up polo grounds and feeding grounds in different districts.
The government and relevant authorities have begun identifying locations in this regard, he added.
Prof Priyoranjan then said that feeding old fodder to the ponies and keeping them in dry areas would devalue their worth.
Thus, the ponies should be allowed to graze in open areas suitable to them, which would in turn help in increasing their numbers.
Most of the ponies stray on the roads due to lack of proper grazing ground, he noted.
Meanwhile, the owners also having a tough time in finding adequate feed for their ponies.
So, there is the urgent need to identify suitable locations in the various districts to raise and conserve the horse species instead of just in Imphal.
As such, the government needs to allocate a separate budget for conservation of the horses under the Veterinary Department, he stated, while emphasising the role of the people in conserving the rare and endangered Manipuri ponies.