Imphal: Governor of Manipur, Ajay Kumar Bhalla, on Friday graced the Valedictory Function of the Indian Himalayan Region Climate Change Conclave at City Convention Centre in Imphal.
The two-day event, organised by the Directorate of Environment and Climate Change, served as a platform for research, policy dialogue, and knowledge sharing on climate change in the Himalayan region. Principal Secretary (Environment and Climate Change), Arun Kumar Sinha, also graced the function.
The conclave brought together around 400 participants, including State Government representatives from 12 Himalayan States, independent researchers and experts, line departments and agencies, members of the scientific community, private sector leaders, NGOs, civil society organisations, and academic institutions.
Governor visited the exhibitions and stalls set up as part of the conclave and appreciated the innovative initiatives and community-led efforts showcased there. Governor alsoreleased five books – State Action Plan on Climate Change Version 2; Wetlands of Manipur Version 1.1; Alien Species of Manipur Version 1.0; Springs of Manipur Version 1.0 andManual on Phumdi-based Floating Treatment Wetland System. Governor inaugurated the State Environment & Climate Data Centre virtually as well.
Addressing the gathering, Governor emphasised that the impacts of climate change are being felt acutely in Manipur, a state nestled in the eastern Himalayas and known for its rich biodiversity and cultural heritage. He noted that the state is increasingly experiencing erratic weather patterns, with 2024 recording unprecedented heat — Jiribam reaching 43°C — and rainfall becoming highly unpredictable. Announcing the release of the updated State Action Plan on Climate Change (Version 2), Governor said this must translate into real action and not remain merely a plan, as it integrates district-level vulnerability assessments and aligns with national climate goals.
Governor also highlighted key initiatives such as the Model Carbon-Positive Eco-Village at Phayeng, the Integrated Ecosystem Services Project at Nungkot Sarbel Machenpat in Andro, conservation efforts at major wetlands including Loktak Lake, and the Spring Rejuvenation Programme in Ukhrul, Kamjong, and Senapati, where over 490 natural springs have been mapped to strengthen water security and climate resilience. Governor stressed that these efforts reflect how policy, science, and community participation can work together to build resilience, reaffirming the government’s commitment to making climate action a core part of Manipur’s development agenda.
Also Read | How indigenous knowledge helped experts detect Pangolins in Arunachal