Imphal: Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh on Saturday launched the Uningthou Uyok plantation drive at the SEEDS Complex in Olympian Park, Imphal West, as part of a statewide initiative to conserve and promote the Uningthou (Phoebe hainesiana), the state’s official tree.
The campaign aims to encourage large-scale plantation and improve the genetic conservation of the indigenous tree species. It is being jointly implemented by the NGO SEEDS, the Editors Guild Manipur and the Department of Environment and Climate Change, with support from the Manipur Forest Department and Manipur University.
The initiative forms part of the state’s broader environmental conservation programme, complementing projects such as the Greening Imphal mission and Miyawaki forest restoration efforts in Langol. Earlier phases of the campaign included plantation activities in the Nongmaiching Hill Range and the creation of dedicated conservation blocks at the SEEDS Complex in Sangaithel.
Following the launch, the Chief Minister inspected Olympian Park and reviewed its existing infrastructure. He directed officials to expedite the restoration of water supply and other essential facilities, stating that the park should be made ready for reopening to the public.
Khemchand said the revival of public recreational spaces is important as peace and normalcy gradually return to the state.
Several senior officials and public representatives attended the programme, including MLA Sorokhaibam Rajen Singh, Managing Director of the Manipur Police Housing Corporation L. Kailun, Imphal West Deputy Commissioner Mayanglambam Rajkumar, and Director of Environment and Climate Change Dr T. Brajakumar.