Kangpokpi, August 20: The 2nd edition of the Tadui Tako Festival, organized by the Bena Zaimeng Joint Development Committee and sponsored by the Directorate of Environment & Climate Change, Government of Manipur, was held on Wednesday at Thonglang Atongba Liangmai Naga Village, Kangpokpi District.
The festival aims to preserve the endangered Tadui Tako Salamander and conserve the degrading Zaimeng Lake, while creating mass awareness about the importance of protecting the species and its habitat. The Tadui Tako Salamander, locally known as Tadui Tako, is a rare and endangered species found abundantly in Zaimeng Lake. The species is listed under the endangered class of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.
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The programme was graced by esteemed guests, including Awangbow Newmai, Former Minister & MLA, Tamei AC, as the Chief Guest; Hemant Kumar IAS, SDO/BDO, Tuijang Waichong Block, and Mani Charenamei, Former MP (Lok Sabha), as Guests of Honour; and R. Machundoubou, President of Liangmai Naga Council, Manipur, as the President. MK Somi, President of Bena Zaimeng Joint Development Committee, served as the Chief Host.
In his address as Chief Guest, Awangbow Newmai emphasized the importance of living in harmony with nature. He stated, “If nature is against us, we wouldn’t survive. But if we befriend nature through preservation and conservation, we can live life fully, even without modern technologies or vehicles.”
Mani Charenamei, Former MP (Lok Sabha), emphasized the significance of Zaimeng Lake, which sustains the daily livelihood of the communities around it. He posed a poignant question: “Do we feed the lake, or does the lake feed us?” Highlighting the lake’s importance since ancestral times, he noted that Zaimeng Lake and its ecosystem have provided natural resources and livelihood for generations. It has been the lifeline of the communities, nurturing fields, sustaining wildlife, and shaping traditions and cultural identity.
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He stressed that protecting Zaimeng is not just about preserving water and land; it is about protecting ourselves. He advocated for declaring Zaimeng and its surrounding forests as a community-protected ecosystem, ensuring balanced development and conservation. Promoting eco-tourism responsibly can help preserve the lake’s beauty while supporting conservation efforts. “When we save Zaimeng, Zaimeng will save us,” he said, “providing clean water, fertile land, and a balanced climate. The thriving Himalayan Newt is a testament to the balance of life here.”
The festival included an awareness talk on the impact of climate change on the Salamander’s habitat, led by subject experts. SK Gainaimei, Programme Officer of the Directorate of Environment & Climate Change, delivered the keynote address, while Dr. Habibullah Khan, Programme Officer, led the technical session. The event featured cultural performances, including dances, hooing, and choreography by various troupes. The festival was attended by CSO leaders, village chiefs, and other stakeholders.
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