A State-level symposium on World Wetlands Day 2026, themed “Wetlands and Traditional Knowledge – Celebrating Cultural Heritage,” took place at the Directorate of Environment and Climate Change in Porompat, Imphal East. The event was moderated by Dr. Koijam KK and featured prominent jury members including Dr. Konthoujam Khelchandra Singh from Manipur University, Dr. W. Roshan Singh of the Manipur Pollution Control Board, and senior journalist Shri Irengbam Arun.
During the symposium, Tourangbam Brajakumar Singh, the Director of Environment and Climate Change, emphasized the crucial role wetlands play in ecological preservation, describing them as the “natural kidneys” of the environment. He outlined their importance in regulating the water cycle, supporting biodiversity, and sustaining local livelihoods through fisheries, agriculture, and medicinal practices. In Manipur, there are 134 identified wetlands across all 16 districts, with 27 proposed for conservation. Notable wetlands such as Utra Pat, Yaral Pat, and Waithou–Phumnou Pat have been officially recognized, while others are under review for conservation status.
The Director also identified significant threats to wetlands, including encroachment, unplanned urbanization, tourism developments, and ineffective drainage systems, contributing to ecological degradation. He referenced the Wetland (Conservation and Management) Rules of India, which advocate for the responsible utilization of water and natural resources.
Furthermore, he announced plans to commemorate World Wetlands Day on February 2 at Yaral Pat, with an emphasis on documenting traditional conservation practices. He expressed optimism that integrating traditional knowledge with the insights of younger generations would enhance wetland conservation initiatives in the region.
Students from several colleges, such as TS Paul Womens College, Manipur Institute of Technology, and others participated in the symposium, sharing insights on the cultural and environmental significance of wetlands and advocating for a synergistic approach that combines traditional wisdom with modern scientific methods for lasting conservation efforts.
