A state-level symposium for college students was organised on Thursday at the Directorate of Environment and Climate Change, Porompat, to mark World Wetlands Day 2026 under the theme “Wetlands and Traditional Knowledge – Celebrating Cultural Heritage.”
Addressing the gathering, Director of Environment and Climate Change Tourangbam Brajakumar Singh described wetlands as vital ecological systems that function as natural regulators of water, support diverse plant and animal life, and sustain local communities through fisheries, agriculture, medicinal plants, and phumdi-based livelihoods.
He stated that Manipur has 134 wetlands spread across its 16 districts, with 27 wetlands proposed for conservation. Utra Pat, Yaral Pat, and Waithou–Phumnou Pat have already been notified, while wetlands including Jaimeng (Kangpokpi), Kachouphung/Achau Maki (Kamjong), Pumlen–Khoidum Pat (Kakching), Ikop–Kharung Pat (Thoubal), and Kakching are under review.
The Director also pointed out growing threats to wetland ecosystems, citing encroachment, land reclamation, unplanned urban growth, tourism-related construction, and inadequate drainage infrastructure. He referred to the Wetland (Conservation and Management) Rules of India, which advocate the sustainable and wise use of wetland resources.
The symposium was moderated by Koijam KK Manibhishan Singh, Head of the Department of Environmental Sciences, Dhanamanjuri University. The jury panel comprised Konthoujam Khelchandra Singh of Manipur University, W. Roshan Singh from the Manipur Pollution Control Board, and senior journalist Irengbam Arun.
Students from multiple colleges, including TS Paul Women’s College, Manipur Institute of Technology, DM College of Science, DM College of Commerce, DM College of Arts, and others, participated in the event. Presentations stressed the cultural significance of wetlands and called for integrating traditional knowledge with scientific approaches to ensure long-term conservation.
World Wetlands Day will be observed on February 2 at Yaral Pat, Imphal East, with a focus on documenting indigenous conservation practices and encouraging youth participation in wetland protection.
