As part of the 71st Wildlife Week celebration, a Nature Trail was organised on Friday in Chandel for students of Classes IX and X from different schools, with the aim of giving them first-hand exposure to the region’s biodiversity.
Around 100 students, along with their teachers and forest staff, took part in the trail that began from Japhou Bazar and passed through Thangkin Khul and Mitong Khul villages before leading into nearby forest areas. Along the way, the students were introduced to various plant species, forest resources, and the importance of conservation.
The programme concluded with an interaction session led by village headman Nungthur Anal and Dr. N. Munal Meitei, Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) of Chandel.
In his address, Dr. Munal Meitei said that while wildlife and environment are taught in classrooms, direct exposure to nature creates a stronger and lasting impact on young minds. He stressed the vital role of wildlife in balancing ecosystems and warned that nearly 30% of species are vanishing due to hunting and habitat loss.
Urging the students to become protectors of nature, he emphasized that conserving forests and wildlife today is essential for a sustainable future. He appealed to the youth to actively participate in safeguarding the environment for the generations to come.
