Imphal: Chairman, Loktak Development Authority (LDA), M. Asnikumar Singh Saturday took part in ‘SABHAGITA’ (Participatory) National Workshop for Conservation and WISE-USE of Wetlands at Anna University campus (a 220 years old university, one of the oldest universities of the country).
It was organised by the Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change, Government of India funded by the Global Environment Fund (a global body for the conservation of the environment throughout the globe).
The workshop was attended by Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Bhupender Yadav; Union Minister of State, Environment, Forest and Climate Change (EF & CC), Ashwani Kumar Choubey; Secretary, Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Leena Nandan, and Vice-Chancellor, Anna University, Prof. Dr. R. Velraj,.
Ideas were exchanged and valuable suggestions were made by renowned figures in the field of wetland conservation during the workshop. In the context of the State’s Loktak lake and its associate wetlands, Asnikumar Singh highlighted the present condition, remedial measures, integrated action plan, wise use policy, short and long term visions for the State’s wetlands, etc. taken up by the State Government under the guidance of Chief Minister, N. Biren Singh.
He also sought the help and contributions from the MoEF & CC (Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change), renowned conservationists, scientists, and corporate houses in the conservation mission of the national treasure Loktak lake. Wetland experts who took part in the workshop stressed the role and importance of community participation in the conservation journey.
M. Asnikumar said, “At the conclusion of the workshop, Union Minister of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Bhupender Yadav Ji spoke eloquently on the significance of wetlands; their cultural value, the core value of traditional practices, etc.
He stressed their significance; highlighting how wetlands are the kidneys and forests are the heart of our environment and the vital role of local Communities/dwellers of the wetlands in conservation measures, keeping in mind the alarming changes taking place in the global environment.”
He added, “What struck each and every one the most during the course of the workshop was Bhupender Yadav eagerness to personally interact one on one with each and every representative of all the States; inquire on their activities in their responsibilities as well as listen through and patiently to their grievances and suggestions.”
M. Asnikumar Singh also had the opportunity of presenting to the Union Minister a book on the Loktak lake titled, “Loktak, the Distorted Mirror”.
Different stakeholders related to the conservation of wetlands, senior Govt. officials, scientists, representatives from renowned corporates houses (FICCI, TATA, Godrej, Adani, etc.), Wetland Mitras, etc. also took part in the workshop.
