The Vice-Chancellor of Manipur underlined the significance of the Wetlands of Manipur in the ecological History of Manipur. Guest of honour Salam Rajesh spoke on “Wise Use of Wetlands” highlighting the importance of the studies on invasive species on the Loktak Lake, migratory birds and the sustainable use of wetlands
TFM Desk
Department of Forestry and Environmental Science, Manipur University observed the World Wetlands Day at FES seminar hall of the university on Friday.
The programme was attended by Vice Chancellor of Manipur University Prof N Lokendro Singh as the chief guest, Prof Th Binoy Singh, HOD- Dept. of Zoology, MU and Salam Rajesh, Member Technical Committee of Manipur Wetlands Authority as the guests of honour. The programme was presided over by Dr Vivek Vaishnav, HOD, Dept of Forestry & Env Science. All the faculties and students of the Department were present in the programme organised under the leadership of Dr Konthoujam Khelchandra Singh, Associate Professor, Dept. of Forestry & Env. Sc. Manipur University.
The 2nd February is observed as World Wetlands Day with a specific theme each year to focus on various issues and aspects of wetland conservation and management. The theme of the year 2024 is “Human and Well-being”. This particular day exhibits the dedication on the conservation and sustainable management of wetlands around the world.
The programme proceeded with the felicitation of the guests and the watering of the “Uningthou” (The State tree of Manipur) tree saplings to begin the programme in morning session.
In the afternoon session, the Vice-Chancellor of Manipur underlined the significance of the Wetlands of Manipur in the ecological History of Manipur. Guest of honour Salam Rajesh spoke on “Wise Use of Wetlands” highlighting the importance of the studies on invasive species on the Loktak Lake, migratory birds and the sustainable use of wetlands.
Certificates were distributed for the winners of Quiz Contest and Extempore competition which were held as Student Outreach Programme in the morning session.
Manipur state has about 155 recognised wetlands covering an area of about 2.5 per cent of the land that provides a wide range of ecological services which includes giving hostage to many unique floras and faunas and the upliftment of rural economy. However, rapid human intervention leads to the deterioration of many wetlands in the state. Some of the threatened lakes in the state are Ikop, Waithou, Ngakrapat, Loushipat, Lamphelpat, Kharungphat, Khoidumpat, Pumlen, Lokoipat, Sanapat, Yaralpat and Poiroupat.