Eyes set on setting up bird sanctuary at Kharungpat

By Our Staff Reporter
IMPHAL, Oct 4 : Additional Chief Secretary (ACS) Anurag Bajpai, who also serves as Principal Chief Conservator of Forest (PCCF) and Head of Forest Force (HoFF), has stated that the Government is working to establish a bird sanctuary measuring 227 hectare at Kharungpat in Kakching district.
Anurag  inaugurated  a photo exhibition on wildlife of Manipur held as part of 71st Wildlife Week Celebration at Nupilan Complex today.
The exhibition featured over 100 stunning wildlife photographs.
Addressing the event, the ACS said that the Government is working to establish a rescue center for birds and animals in Bishnupur, a bird sanctuary at Kharungpat, and centers for birds and animals in Jiribam, Tamenglong, Kamjong, Ukhrul etc.
He continued that a center is already operational in Ukhrul to protect the State's bird, the Nongin, and a Sangai conservation and breeding center has been established at Keibul Lamjao in Bishnupur.
The Government is working to boost the population of the Sangai, Anurag said.
Saying that the photo exhibition was organised to document Manipur's natural heritage and promote wildlife conservation, he added that promoting conservation efforts can boost tourism in Manipur and enhance the State's economy.
The ACS further emphasized that tourists today prefer destinations which offer natural beauty.
Saying that Manipur Zoological Garden, which attracts approximately 1,20,000 visitors annually is the top tourist destination in the State, Anurag added that the Government is actively working to enhance the zoo's aesthetic appeal and facilities.
He said that a similar photo exhibition will also be organised on the closing day of the Wildlife Week Celebration on October 9.
The programme was also attended by Chief Conservator of  Forest (Wildlife) L Joykumar and Director of Manipur Zoological  Garden Laishram Biramangol among others.