Reported by Bit Irom
Imphal: Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh marked National Endangered Species Day 2026 by declaring biodiversity conservation a top priority in the state and made a strong appeal for the protection of critically endangered wildlife.
Extending greetings to the public, the Chief Minister stressed the urgent need to conserve the state animal, the Sangai deer (Rucervus eldii eldii), and the state bird, the Nongin (Hume’s Pheasant or Mrs. Hume’s Barred-backed Pheasant).
Both species are listed under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, and face serious threats due to habitat loss and climate change.
The Sangai deer is found only in the floating phumdis of Keibul Lamjao National Park in Loktak Lake. Despite conservation efforts, its population remains critically low, estimated at around 200 to 260 individuals.
The Nongin also faces significant threats due to the degradation of its fragile forest habitat.
In a Facebook post, the Chief Minister said, “This day reminds us of our collective responsibility to protect and preserve endangered species such as the Sangai and Nongin, the pride of Manipur, and their natural habitats.”
He urged citizens to take active steps to protect biodiversity and ensure a sustainable future.