State-Level Symposium on Wetlands Held in Imphal

A state-level symposium for college students on the theme of World Wetlands Day 2026, “Wetlands and Traditional Knowledge – Celebrating Cultural Heritage,” was held today at the Directorate of Environment and Climate Change, Porompat, Imphal East.

The symposium was moderated by Dr. Koijam K.K. Manibhishan Singh, Head of the Department of Environmental Sciences, Dhanamanjuri University (DMU). Dr. Konthoujam Khelchandra Singh, Associate Professor, Department of Environmental Sciences, Manipur University; Dr. W. Roshan Singh, Member Secretary, Manipur Pollution Control Board; and senior journalist Shri Irengbam Arun served as jury members.

Speaking on the occasion, Shri Tourangbam Brajakumar Singh, Director, Environment and Climate Change, emphasized that the preservation of wetlands is crucial for environmental protection. He described wetlands as the “natural kidneys” of the ecosystem, highlighting their role in regulating the water cycle, supporting biodiversity, and sustaining livelihoods through fisheries, agriculture, medicinal plants, and phumdi-based practices.

The Director informed that Manipur has 134 wetlands across all 16 districts, of which 27 wetlands have been proposed for conservation. He stated that Utra Pat, Yaral Pat, and Waithou–Phumnou Pat have already been notified and placed in the public domain, while several others, including Jaimeng Wetland (Kangpokpi), Kachouphung/Achau Maki Wetland (Kamjong), Pumlen–Khoidum Pat (Kakching), Ikop–Kharung Pat (Thoubal), and Kakching Wetland, are under consideration.

Highlighting the challenges faced by wetlands, he pointed out threats such as encroachment, land reclamation, unplanned urbanization, tourism-related construction, and poor drainage systems, which contribute to ecosystem degradation. He also referred to the Wetland (Conservation and Management) Rules of India, which advocate the wise use of wetland resources.

He further announced that World Wetlands Day will be observed on February 2 at Yaral Pat, Imphal East, focusing on traditional knowledge and the documentation of indigenous conservation practices. He expressed hope that integrating traditional wisdom with the energy and ideas of young students would strengthen wetland conservation efforts in Manipur.

Students from various colleges, including TS Paul Women’s College, Manipur Institute of Technology, Kakching Khunou College, DM College of Science, DM College of Commerce, Kha Manipur College, Moirang College, Modern College, Standard College, and DM College of Arts, participated in the symposium and shared insights on the cultural and environmental significance of wetlands and sustainable conservation practices.