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Loktak Development Authority Observes World Wetlands Day

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The key highlights of the event were the release of the Waterbirds Census Report and a booklet on the Waterbirds of Loktak and presentation of citations and awards to distinguished individuals and organisations for their outstanding contributions to wetland conservation by the Governor.

TFM Report

Loktak Development Authority (LDA) organised a grand celebration of World Wetlands Day 2025 at Sendra, Manipur, on Sunday under the global theme ‘Protecting Wetlands for Our Common Future’. The event brought together government officials, community leaders, environmentalists, students, and conservationists to reaffirm their commitment to safeguarding Loktak Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Northeast India and a Ramsar site of international importance.

Governor of Manipur Ajay Kumar Bhalla was the Chief Guest while Minister for PWD and YAS Konthoujam Govindas presided over the function.

The celebration commenced with a formal welcome ceremony, followed by the lighting of the ceremonial lamp by the Governor, accompanied by a welcome folk song and Thougal Jagoi (folk dance).

In his welcome and keynote address, Chairman of LDA M. Asnikumar Singh highlighted the deep cultural, ecological, and socio-economic significance of Loktak Lake. He outlined the initiatives taken by the LDA and the Government of Manipur to restore and conserve the lake.

“Beyond its ecological significance, Loktak Lake is deeply intertwined with our traditions and livelihoods. It is a symbol of Manipur’s rich heritage. The Government of Manipur, along with LDA, has undertaken several key initiatives aimed at restoring, conserving, and ensuring the sustainable management of this precious wetland,” he said.

Speaking on conservation challenges, Pr. CCF (HoFF) & Addl. Chief Secretary (Textile, Commerce & Industries) Anurag Bajpai, IFS, elaborated on deforestation, illegal stone and sand mining, and the rampant cultivation of poppy in the catchment and hill areas, all of which have severely impacted Loktak’s ecological balance. He stressed the urgent need for coordinated conservation efforts and strict regulatory measures to curb these destructive activities.

Minister Konthoujam Govindas highlighted the need for collective responsibility in conserving Loktak Lake. He also called for greater accountability from NHPC for the ecological disruptions caused by the Loktak Hydroelectric Project.

“The degradation of Loktak Lake is a shared concern, and we must come together to protect it. The NHPC’s hydro project has significantly altered the lake’s ecosystem, leading to its deterioration. NHPC must be held accountable for these changes and contribute towards restoration efforts,” he said.

In his speech, Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla underscored the importance of community participation and youth involvement in conservation efforts. Drawing a parallel between Loktak and a mother, he said, “The people of Manipur revere Loktak as a mother. It is our duty to protect and care for her. Community participation, especially the active involvement of youth, is essential in safeguarding Loktak Lake for future generations. The government, environmental groups, and local communities must work together to ensure its protection.”

The key highlights of the event were the release of the Waterbirds Census Report and a booklet on the Waterbirds of Loktak and presentation of citations and awards to distinguished individuals and organisations for their outstanding contributions to wetland conservation by the Governor.

Kumam Jugeshwor Singh, Retd. Principal, Kumbi College, Salam Rajesh Singh, Member, IUCN & Commission on Environmental, Economic & Social Policy (CEESP), Rajkumar Birjit Singh, Principal, Mangolnganbi College, Ningthoukhong & State Coordinator, Asian Waterbird Census and Khoyumthem Brajesh Kumar, President, Wildlife Explorers, Manipur were honoured under individual category. Environmental Social Reformation & Sangai Protection Forum (ESRSPF), Manipur, Champu Khangpok Floating Village Conservation & Management Committee, Loktak Lake and Green Brigade, Toubul, Manipur were honoured under oganisational category.

They were awarded recognising their unwavering dedication for making significant strides in protecting and restoring the Loktak ecosystem.

Following the award ceremony, the Governor, accompanied by Minister Govindas Konthoujam, Chairman M. Asnikumar Singh, and other guests, proceeded to Loktak Lake for a symbolic conservation initiative—the release of fish fingerlings into the lake.

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