Imphal: The Governor of Manipur, Ajay Kumar Bhalla, today graced the grand finale of the 72nd Wildlife Week Celebrations 2026 at the City Convention Centre, Imphal. Organised under the theme ‘Connecting Habitat, Thriving Wildlife,’ the week-long celebration aimed to promote wildlife conservation, raise public awareness about the importance of protecting biodiversity, and encourage collective responsibility towards preserving Manipur’s rich natural heritage. Deputy Chief Minister Losii Dikho, along with the Vice-Chancellor of the National Sports University, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and Head of Forest Force (PCCF & HoFF), Principal Secretary (Forest, Environment & Climate Change), and other dignitaries, attended the occasion.
Upon arrival, the Governor, accompanied by the dignitaries, visited the photography exhibition showcasing the rich diversity of Manipur’s wildlife. The programme featured the screening of a video album on wildlife conservation, a presentation of the report on the 72nd Wildlife Week Celebrations 2026, and the release of a public service announcement video titled ‘Wildlife Conservation – Our Shared Responsibility.’ The Governor also released two books, ‘Birds of Langol Reserve Forest: A Reckoner’ and ‘Mahoushagi Maithong’, and launched two new initiatives—the Manipur Clouded Leopard Conservation Project and the Manipur Vulture Conservation Project. Governor further felicitated the winners of various competitions organised as part of the celebrations, including painting and photography competitions.
During the event, the Governor virtually released rescued wild animals into their natural habitats at four locations: Yaralpat, Nongmaiching Reserve Forest, Heingang Reserve Forest and Bishnupur Reserve Forest.
Addressing the gathering, the Governor stated that wildlife conservation is not merely an environmental concern but a collective responsibility and an investment in the future. He emphasised that protecting forests, wetlands and biodiversity requires sustained efforts, stronger enforcement against wildlife crimes, scientific research and the active participation of local communities, particularly the youth. He also highlighted the importance of balancing economic growth with environmental protection as the nation advances towards the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.
The Governor urged the youth to take an active interest in wildlife conservation through birdwatching, biodiversity documentation and community participation. He also highlighted the proposed expansion of Manipur Zoological Garden as an opportunity to strengthen its role in wildlife conservation, scientific research, animal welfare and environmental education, inspiring future generations to appreciate and protect the State’s rich biodiversity.
The grand finale was attended by officers of the Forest Department and other government departments, representatives of enforcement agencies, conservationists, members of civil society, teachers, students and other participants, reflecting a collective commitment towards wildlife conservation and the protection of Manipur’s rich biodiversity.
