Imphal: A State-level symposium for colleges 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 KK. Manibhishan Singh, Head of the Department of Environmental Sciences Dhanamanjuri University (DMU); while 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, Tourangbam Brajakumar Singh, Director, Environment and Climate Change, stressed that preserving wetlands is essential for protecting nature. He said wetlands provide vital ecosystem services and act as the “natural kidneys” of the environment by regulating the water cycle, supporting biodiversity, and sustaining local livelihoods through fisheries, agriculture, medicinal plants, and phumdi-based practices.
He informed that Manipur has 134 wetlands in all 16 districts, of which 27 have been proposed for conservation. Utra Pat, Yaral Pat, and Waithou–Phumnou Pat have already been notified and placed in the public domain, while Jaimeng Wetland (Kangpokpi), Kachouphung/Achau Maki Wetland (Kamjong), Pumlen–Khoidum Pat (Kakching), Ikop–Kharung Pat (Thoubal), and Kakching Wetland are under consideration.
The Director also highlighted major threats to wetlands, including encroachment, land reclamation, unplanned urbanization, tourism-related constructions, and inadequate drainage systems, leading to ecosystem degradation. He referred to the Wetland (Conservation and Management) Rules of India, which emphasize the wise use of water, fish, aquatic plants, and other natural resources.
He further announced that World Wetlands Day will be observed on 2nd February at Yaral Pat, Imphal East, under the UN theme focusing on traditional knowledge and the need to document indigenous conservation practices. He expressed hope that blending traditional wisdom with the enthusiasm of young minds would strengthen wetland conservation efforts in the State.
Students from various colleges, including TS Paul Womens 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 event. Participants highlighted the cultural and environmental importance of wetlands and emphasized the integration of traditional knowledge with modern scientific approaches for sustainable conservation.
