‘Govt making effort to increase population of Sangai’

Our Correspondent
Imphal, August 21 (EMN): Manipur Forest and Environment Minister Th Shyamkumar Singh while addressing one day consultation cum sensitization workshop on “Conservation of Sangai in Manipur for state legislature, administrator and the media” held here on Monday said that the state government is making serious effort to increase the population of the Sangai at Keibul Lamjao National Park (KLNP) which is the natural habitat of the State Animal.
Stating that the Sangai is the pride of the State, Minister Shyamkumar also expressed the need to revamp KLNP during the day’s consultation cum workshop organised by State Forest Department in collaboration with Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun. Rucervus eldii eldii or Sangai deer, one of the rarest deers on Earth, live on floating land masses in KLNP, world’s only floating reserve covering 40 square km area. The reserve is a part of the 246 sq km Loktak Lake in Bishnupur district, located about 50 km from here.
The last Census, carried out in March 31 and April 2 last year,put the Sangai population at 260 against 204 of March 2013 census. There was just 14 Sangai at KLNP during the first census in 1977.Interestingly, the carrying capacity of KNLP is said to be about 297 Sangai, according to experts. Welcoming suggestions from the scholars, elders and locals living near KLNP with thorough knowledge about the Sangai, Minister also said that they can contribute with their valuable knowledge in conserving and protecting the Sangai.
Expressing happiness over the widespread people’s participation in tree plantion activities,he felt there is a positive change among the general population about environment and clubs, NGOs and associations are spreading awareness about tree plantation.
Principal Chief Conservator of Forests & Head of Forest Force K Angami, Additional Chief Secretary Shambhu Singh, scientists from Wildlife Institute of India, Chairman L Radhakishore of Manipur Pollution Control Board, Kumbi MLA S Bira and media persons attended the workshop.