A large student rally was held on Thursday at Japhou Bazar, Chandel, to raise awareness about the need to protect and conserve wildlife species. The event was jointly organized by the DFO/Chandel and Oak Hill Christian Academy, Chandel.
Around 600 students from various schools took part in the rally, which began from the gate of Oak Hill Christian Academy, Panchai, Chandel. The rally was flagged off by Dr. N. Munal Meitei, DFO/Chandel, and H.T. Francis, Founder Principal of Oak Hill Christian Academy.
Carrying playcards with slogans such as “Save Wildlife” and “Stop Hunting,” the students marched through the streets, raising awareness among the public. The rally covered a distance of about 1.5 km, starting from Japhou Bazar and concluding at the Women’s Market, where an awareness programme was also held.
During the awareness event, students, BS. Khilhuwhring Anal, and Khinda Huten highlighted the importance of protecting wildlife and the consequences of hunting endangered species.
Addressing the gathering, Dr. N. Munal Meitei stated that “Wildlife conservation is not only the responsibility of forest officials but also of the youth and students who are the future guardians of nature.” He emphasized that while various conservation initiatives have been undertaken, many species continue to face threats, and the number of wildlife species is drastically declining, particularly the hill species (Lamlakki Sa-Uchek).
Dr. Meitei also pointed out that wildlife loss directly affects ecological balance and human survival. He warned that “the extinction of these species will have irreversible effects on the environment.” Referring to the Sangai, the State Animal of Manipur, he mentioned that it is already at a “tipping point” and requires immediate conservation efforts.
He further encouraged students to act as ambassadors for wildlife protection, saying that the rally organized by Oak Hill Christian Academy students would serve as an inspiration for others and help make Chandel — and Manipur as a whole — a model for wildlife conservation.
N.G. Joy, senior-most teacher of Oak Hill Christian Academy, also spoke during the event. He expressed pride in the students’ participation and said that the rally reflected the school’s commitment to nurturing environmental awareness among the youth. He appealed to other schools in Chandel to actively join in wildlife protection campaigns.
The event concluded with renewed pledges from all participants to continue spreading awareness and to take practical steps toward protecting and preserving wildlife.
