World Wetlands Day at Sendra

Pothashang News Service: Imphal, February 2, 2019: The World Wetlands Day for this year was today observed at the state-level on the theme ‘Wetlands and Climate Change’ at Sendra in Bishnupur district.

It was jointly organised by the Loktak Development Authority (LDA) and Loktak Lake Tourism Development Co-operative Society Limited.

A spot painting competition was held at the Loktak Inland Transport complex. It was participated by 109 school students.

Cash rewards of Rs 3,000, Rs 2,000, Rs 1,000 as first, second and third prize respectively.  Two students received Rs 500 each as a consolation prizes.

World Wetlands Day is observed every year on this day to mark the date of adoption of Ramsar Convention on Wetlands in 1971. It is organized to raise awareness on the values wetlands have for nature and society.

Forest and environment minister Th. Shyamkumar said water is necessary for sustaining life and wetlands are the life support systems that ensure functioning of water cycle. Wetlands have special attributes as cultural heritage of humanity and have deep connections with our beliefs and practices. They are indeed an important part of our natural wealth and assets, he added.

The minister said the pollution of the Loktak Lake, known as the mirror of the Manipur, is not a sign of development. He calls for active public participation is necessary to save the Loktak Lake.