Manipur minister assures protection of wetlands on World Earth Day

Imphal: Manipur Minister of Environment Th Shyamkumar on Saturday announced the state Government will frame policies to conserve wetlands .
Addressing a function during World Earth Day observation held at Manipur State Film Development society (MFSDS) here on Saturday, he said the earth is the only planet in the Universe where life exists.
He appealed to maintain the natural assets of the earth to sustain life on earth. Changes in our habitual behaviour directly relates to the environmental changes he added.
“We should take care of the environmental issues to stay healthy and remain alive as cruel people have mercilessly utilized its resources and depleted its life supporting resources over the centuries,” he further said.
The minister expressed concern over felling down of trees as a means to block road during public agitation.
He emphasised that the need of the hour is to empower everyone with the knowledge of Environmental protection.
Shyamkumar further encouraged the general public more particularly the students to plant new tree saplings.
Observed on the theme “Environmental and Climate Literacy” the day should be observed collectively, he said.
The minister said students can plant saplings at their respective schools, residences and in their local areas along with their elders.
He said in the government schools of Andro Assembly Constituency environmental protection is taken up from early stage .
The minister further said modernisation has an adverse impact on the environment.
He said diminishing green covers in the hills, disappearance of lakes and birds are signs of environmental degradation.
“Our State is abundant with natural resources but human greed has caused ecological imbalance resulting in natural calamities and global warming, he added.
Shyamkumar informed the gathering that, concerned departments are discussing water conservation and environmental protection at various locations in the State, including Tamenglong, Ukhrul, Kangpokpi, Senapati, Dzukou Valley, Kwatha Village and Moreh.
The minister also assured that appropriate action will be taken up in the coming months.
L Susindro, Parliamentary Secretary said “the state has the culture of conserving our natural resources. Groves around forest deities is an example of our forefathers protecting natural habitat.”
He said vanishing wetlands have resulted in the climate change in Manipur and expressed hope that, the government will bring a policy to conserve the wetlands. (UNI)