State-Level World Wetlands Day 2026 Observed at Yaral Pat

The State-Level Observation of World Wetlands Day 2026 was held today at Yaral Pat, Imphal East, under the theme “Wetlands and Traditional Knowledge: Celebrating Cultural Heritage.”

The programme was graced by Arun Kumar Sinha, IAS, Principal Secretary, Forest, Environment & Climate Change, Government of Manipur, as Chief Guest, while Dr Kh. Shamungou Singh, Chairperson, Technical Committee, Manipur State Wetlands Authority, and Dr Shailesh Kumar Chourasia, IAS, Commissioner, Government of Manipur, attended as Guests of Honour. Dr T. Brajakumar Singh, Director, Environment & Climate Change, presided over the function. Hungyo Worshang, IAS, Secretary (PHED/IPR/Tourism), was also present.

Addressing the gathering, Arun Kumar Sinha highlighted the significance of World Wetlands Day, observed annually on February 2 to mark the adoption of the Ramsar Convention in 1971. Emphasising this year’s theme, he underlined the close link between wetlands and the cultural heritage of local communities. He stated that India has designated 96 Ramsar sites, including Loktak Lake, and highlighted initiatives undertaken by the state such as ground-truthing of 132 wetlands, boundary delineation of 71 wetlands, and draft notification of Yaral Pat, Uttra Pat and Waithou Phumnom Pat.

He further informed that Integrated Management Plans are being implemented for five wetlands, including Loktak Lake, under the National Plan for Conservation of Aquatic Ecosystems. Major works at Yaral Pat since 2021 include fencing, plantation, desilting, spring rejuvenation, livelihood support, infrastructure development and bird census activities.

Dr Shailesh Kumar Chourasia, in his address, stressed the need for responsible behaviour towards nature, especially wetlands. Referring to the impact of unchecked development, he highlighted the degradation of wetlands in many parts of the world and emphasised that community participation is vital for effective conservation. He appealed to all stakeholders to ensure that future generations can continue to benefit from and experience nature.

As part of the programme, a photo exhibition organised by the Manipur Amateur Photo Club was inaugurated. Prizes were distributed to winners of the State-Level Symposium on World Wetlands Day 2026. The event also marked the launch of the Wetlands Virtual Museum at Yaral Pat and the declaration of Top Dusara Village as a Climate Resilient Village.