Fate of Manipuri pony in question

IMPHAL, Jun 10: Fate of Manipuri pony (Meitei Sagol) which plays an important role in promoting the unique identities of the State is in question, said Manipur Pony and Polo Players' Welfare Association (MP&PPWA).
A press release issued by MP&PPWA said that unlike in the past not many people who want to protect this horse breed are left today other than some polo clubs and players.
Saying that these horses are often seen consuming leftover food or garbage due to shrinkage of their grazing grounds, he added that the adversity of Manipuri pony has been compounded by the silences of the Government on the matter.
Despite giving several assurances, not much has been done by the State Government to protect ponies, it added.
Demanding the State Government to identify at least one grazing field each in Imphal  East, Imphal West, Thoubal, Kakching and Bishnupur for the ponies, the association also expressed disappointment over the 'disappearance' of polo grounds in the State.
MP&PPWA then appealed to the State Government to allow players to practice Polo (Sagol kangjei) at Hapta Kangjeibung at the earliest.