Nongin Fest urged

IMPHAL, Jul 15 : Razai Village Authority chairman Ismail HS has appealed for the establishment of a sanctuary for the State bird of Manipur, Nongin (Mrs Hume's Pheasant) at Razai Khullen Village Chingai, Ukhrul and launching of 'Nongin festival' in the same line as Sangai festival and Shirui Lily festival.

The statement was made during a press briefing held today at Manipur Press Club, Majorkhul jointly organised by Wildlife and Environment Protection Organization Manipur and Razai Khullen Village Chingai, Ukhrul district.

Addressing the media persons, Ismail HS shared that the residents of Razai Khullen Village Chingai previously did not know that the Nongin spotted in the area was the State bird. Upon learning of its status, a fine of Rs 10,000 was imposed on the hunting and killing of the bird, he said.

Further, he added that the Nongin does not thrive in dense forests or hilly areas but in small hillocks and other low lying regions. As such, he appealed to the authorities concerned to set up a sanctuary for the State bird at Razai Khullen Village, which he claimed was its original habitat and aid in saving the bird.

Wangkhemcha Shamjai, All Manipur Working Journalists Union also spoke on the occasion and stated that Nongins are thriving in this small village located around 80 kilometres from Ukhrul. Stressing that it is everybody's responsibility to protect the Nongin, he urged the State Government to take up appropriate steps to safeguard the State bird.