IMPHAL: Governor of Manipur Ajay Kumar Bhalla emphasized that the protection of wildlife, conservation of forests, and safeguarding of natural resources such as rivers and mountains are collective responsibilities of every citizen. He made this remark while addressing the grand finale of the 71st Wildlife Week Celebration 2025 held at the City Convention Centre, Imphal.
Organized by the Forest Department, the Wildlife Week Celebration was observed across all districts of the state from October 2 to October 8, featuring a variety of awareness and conservation-related activities. During the programme, the Governor inaugurated a Wildlife Photography Exhibition showcasing the rich biodiversity of Manipur.
On the occasion, the Governor also remotely launched a series of videos highlighting various wildlife species and their habitats across the state. A special video presentation on the Pangolin Conservation Project in Manipur — a joint initiative of the Wildlife Trust of India and the Forest Department — was also screened. The Governor further formally launched the Manipur Bear Conservation Project.
He released a book titled “Flight, Fur and Fangs — Encounters with the Wilderness of Manipur Forest” and launched a web application called “Forest Resource Assessment and Monitoring System”, developed in collaboration with the North Eastern Space Application Centre (NESAC), ISRO.
Addressing the gathering, the Governor appreciated the dedicated contributions of officers and NGOs in wildlife and environmental conservation. He stressed that the protection of Manipur’s forests, wildlife, rivers, mountains, and biodiversity is not solely the duty of the government but a shared moral responsibility of every citizen.
He also encouraged the Forest Department to continue its proactive role in wildlife and nature conservation and to promote eco-tourism across the state.
Chief Secretary Dr. Puneet Kumar Goel, officers from the Forest Department, representatives of various NGOs, and students from different institutions were also present at the event.
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