Asufii Christian Institute, Punanamei, hosts awareness programme on wildfire, themed “Our forest, our responsibility.”
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DIMAPUR — An awareness programme on wildfire, themed “Our forest, our responsibility,” was held at Asufii Christian Institute (ACI), Punanamei, Mao, on Tuesday.
The programme was jointly organised by the Senapati District Forest Division, Department of Zoology, ACI, and the Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC), Asufii Christian Institute, the college stated in an update.
Addressing the gathering, Shanngam S, Divisional Forest Officer, Senapati Forest Division, stressed the importance of understanding the correct and responsible use of fire in and around forest areas.
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He highlighted the values and ethics embedded in traditional practices such as jhum cultivation and explained their relationship with forest wildfires. Emphasising community responsibility, he stated that protecting forests is a collective duty and that every individual must take responsibility for safeguarding the forests in and around their locality.
Dr. Lokho Pune, IFS (Retd.) and former Member of the Manipur Public Service Commission, described forests as God’s creation and highlighted the serious impact of even small-scale forest burning on livelihoods.
He explained that forest fires contribute significantly to the emission of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases. While earlier forests were able to absorb most of these emissions, he noted that today only about 50 percent of carbon dioxide is absorbed, making uncontrolled and fast-spreading wildfires a major concern in the context of global warming.
The programme was further strengthened by the presence of Alankrit Gautam, IFS, who also contributed to empowering the community through his interaction and inputs on forest conservation and awareness.
As part of the programme, a poster competition on the theme “Our Planet, Our Responsibility” was organised in two categories—one for college students and another for high school and higher secondary students—encouraging young minds to creatively engage with environmental issues.
“The awareness programme witnessed active participation from various civil society organisations, community leaders, student organisations, faculty members, and students.
“It concluded with an engaging interaction session between the resource persons and the participants, fostering greater awareness and collective commitment towards forest protection and wildfire prevention,” the update stated.