Asem Bhakta, Special Correspondent North East
Sendra: The Loktak Development Authority (LDA) today organised a grand celebration of World Wetlands Day 2025 at Sendra, Manipur, under the global theme ‘Protecting Wetlands for Our Common Future’. The event brought together government officials, community leaders, environmentalists, students, and conservationists to reaffirm their commitment to safeguarding Loktak Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Northeast India and a Ramsar site of international importance.
The event was graced by Hon’ble Governor of Manipur, Shri Ajay Kumar Bhalla, as the Chief Guest, and Hon’ble Minister for PWD and YAS, Shri Konthoujam Govindas, as the President of the function. Also in attendance were Hon’ble MLA of Kumbi, Shri Sanasam Premchandra Singh, Hon’ble Chairman of LDA, Shri M. Asnikumar Singh, Shri Anurag Bajpai, IFS, Pr. CCF (HoFF) & Addl. Chief Secretary (Textile, Commerce & Industries), Shri Arun Kumar Sinha, IAS, Principal Secretary (Agriculture/Forest, Environment & Climate Change), Shri Sumant Singh, Commissioner ( Health , Family Welfare & Rural Development, Panchyat ) cum secy to Governor, Brigadier AA Ukidwe, SM Commander, 59 Mountain Brigade, Bishnupur , Shri RK Amarjit Singh, IFS , Spl Secy( Forest, Environment , Climate Change & Land Resource), DC & SP of Bishnupur senior officials alongside community leaders, women’s groups, youth volunteers, Students and NCC cadets.
Significance of Wetlands and World Wetlands Day
Wetlands are among the most biologically diverse and productive ecosystems on Earth, providing crucial services such as water purification, flood control, carbon storage, and habitat for countless species. Loktak Lake, with its unique floating phumdis, is not only a vital ecological treasure but also a lifeline for thousands of people who depend on it for fishing, agriculture, and tourism.
The 2025 theme, ‘Protecting Wetlands for Our Common Future,’ underscores the pressing need to preserve wetlands as essential ecosystems for sustaining biodiversity, mitigating climate change, and ensuring water security for future generations. The event served as a reminder of the collective responsibility of governments, local communities, and conservation groups in ensuring the long-term health of Loktak and other wetlands across the globe.
Programme Highlights
The celebration commenced with a formal welcome ceremony, followed by the lighting of the ceremonial lamp by the Hon’ble Governor, accompanied by a traditional welcome folk song and Thougal Jagoi (folk dance).
In his welcome and keynote address, Hon’ble Chairman of LDA, Shri M. Asnikumar Singh, highlighted the deep cultural, ecological, and socio-economic significance of Loktak Lake. He outlined the initiatives taken by the LDA and the Government of Manipur to restore and conserve the lake, stating:
“Beyond its ecological significance, Loktak Lake is deeply intertwined with our traditions and livelihoods. It is a symbol of Manipur’s rich heritage. The Government of Manipur, along with LDA, has undertaken several key initiatives aimed at restoring, conserving, and ensuring the sustainable management of this precious wetland.”
Speaking on conservation challenges, Shri Anurag Bajpai, IFS, elaborated on deforestation, illegal stone and sand mining, and the rampant cultivation of poppy in the catchment and hill areas, all of which have severely impacted Loktak’s ecological balance. He stressed the urgent need for coordinated conservation efforts and strict regulatory measures to curb these destructive activities.
Hon’ble Minister, Shri Konthoujam Govindas, highlighted the need for collective responsibility in conserving Loktak Lake. He also called for greater accountability from NHPC for the ecological disruptions caused by the Loktak Hydroelectric Project, stating:
“The degradation of Loktak Lake is a shared concern, and we must come together to protect it. The NHPC’s hydro project has significantly altered the lake’s ecosystem, leading to its deterioration. NHPC must be held accountable for these changes and contribute towards restoration efforts.”
In his keynote speech, Hon’ble Governor, Shri Ajay Kumar Bhalla, underscored the importance of community participation and youth involvement in conservation efforts. Drawing a parallel between Loktak and a mother, he remarked:
“The people of Manipur revere Loktak as a mother. It is our duty to protect and care for her. Community participation, especially the active involvement of youth, is essential in safeguarding Loktak Lake for future generations. The government, environmental groups, and local communities must work together to ensure its protection.”
Recognising Conservation Efforts
A significant highlight of the event was the release of the Waterbirds Census Report and a booklet on the Waterbirds of Loktak by the Hon’ble Governor. These publications provide valuable insights into the bird diversity of Loktak Lake and reinforce the importance of preserving wetland habitats.
The Hon’ble Governor then presented citations and awards to distinguished individuals and organisations for their outstanding contributions to wetland conservation.
Individual Awardees:
Shri Kumam Jugeshwor Singh, Retd. Principal, Kumbi College
Shri Salam Rajesh Singh, Member, IUCN & Commission on Environmental, Economic & Social Policy (CEESP)
Shri Rajkumar Birjit Singh, Principal, Mangolnganbi College, Ningthoukhong & State Coordinator, Asian Waterbird Census
Shri Khoyumthem Brajesh Kumar, President, Wildlife Explorers, Manipur
Organisational Awardees:
Environmental Social Reformation & Sangai Protection Forum (ESRSPF), Manipur
Champu Khangpok Floating Village Conservation & Management Committee, Loktak Lake
Green Brigade, Toubul, Manipur
These awards recognise the unwavering dedication of individuals and organisations who have made significant strides in protecting and restoring the Loktak ecosystem.
Conservation Initiative: Fish Fingerlings Release
Following the award ceremony, the Hon’ble Governor, accompanied by Hon’ble Minister Shri Govindas Konthoujam, Hon’ble Chairman Shri M. Asnikumar Singh, and other esteemed guests, proceeded to Loktak Lake for a symbolic conservation initiative—the release of fish fingerlings into the lake.
This initiative aims to replenish fish populations, restore aquatic biodiversity, and support local livelihoods that depend on sustainable fisheries. The release of fish fingerlings is a part of LDA’s broader conservation strategy to enhance Loktak’s ecological balance while ensuring food security for local communities.
Conclusion: A Call to Action
The World Wetlands Day 2025 celebrations at Sendra served as a powerful call to action for the protection and restoration of Loktak Lake. The event reinforced the importance of government policies, scientific research, community participation, and sustainable management practices in ensuring that Loktak remains a thriving wetland for generations to come.
The LDA urges all stakeholders—government agencies, local communities, researchers, and environmental organisations—to come together and work towards a sustainable future for Loktak Lake and all wetlands across Manipur.
