World Turtle Day observed in Imphal with awareness programmes highlighting turtle conservation, biodiversity protection and freshwater ecosystem preservation
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IMPHAL — World Turtle Day was observed at the Manipur Zoological Garden (MZG) in Imphal under the theme “Let Turtle Live, Let Nature Thrive, Protect Wildlife, Protect Our Future”, with students and conservationists highlighting the urgent need to protect endangered turtle species.
The programme was organised jointly by the Manipur Zoological Garden and the Turtle Survival Alliance Foundation India (TSAFI). A total of 158 students and 10 teachers from Grace Academy, Tarung, participated in awareness and outreach activities focused on turtle conservation and freshwater ecosystem protection.
Director of MZG, L Biramongol Singh, said the zoo and TSAFI have been undertaking conservation initiatives for the critically endangered Asian Giant Tortoise under the guidance of Head of Forest Force and Chief Wildlife Warden Anurag Bajpai and Chief Conservator of Forest (Wildlife) L. Joykumar.
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He said the ongoing conservation breeding programme at the zoo is aimed at supporting future rewilding efforts in suitable habitats and stressed the importance of engaging young people in conservation initiatives.
TSAFI Northeast India Project Coordinator Sushmita Kar noted that turtles have existed for nearly 220 million years but are now among the world’s most threatened vertebrates.
She said Manipur possesses a rich diversity of rare turtle species, though conservation efforts for these lesser-known animals remain limited despite their ecological role in scavenging and seed dispersal.
As part of the event, Veterinary Officer Dr. L. Saratchandra Singh, Range Forest Officer Th. Gyanic Singh, Deputy Ranger Ambika Devi and TSAFI associate Sanjenbam Joel Singh conducted interactive sessions and delivered talks on wildlife conservation and ecosystem protection.