Ukhrul, July 10: Ukhrul Forest Division, in collaboration with Shirui Village, successfully organized the 74th Van Mahotsav (Festival of Forests) on Monday at Vangayan, the state Shirui Lily Festival site under the theme “Each One, Plant One, Stop the Chop”.
The program commenced with an invocation by Reverend Dr. Ringphami Kengoo, the local pastor of Shirui Village, setting a solemn tone for the event. Shanngam S, IFS, Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) of Ukhrul Forest Division, delivered the welcome address and gave the key-note speech. He highlighted the significance of the Festival of Forests, which is traditionally celebrated in the first week of July every year, emphasizing the importance of tree planting. “I believe we are here because we have great concern for the forest and environment,” he remarked. Shanngam S concluded his speech with a quote that resonated with the audience: “We do not inherit the earth from our ancestors, but we borrow it from our children.”
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Chief Guest Ram Muivah, IAS (Retd.) MLA of the 44th Assembly Constituency of Ukhrul, addressed the gathering. He reminisced about the abundant fish population in Thoubal River, emphasizing the need to preserve and restore the natural resources that were once plentiful in the region. He emphasized the importance of preserving and restoring the environment for future generations.
Shirui Kashong, as part of Tangkhul culture, holds a special place in the heart of the community, he added. The peak is situated at the center of Tangkhul lands. Shirui is also one of the rare Alpine forests of Manipur, including Phangrei, Harva Khangai in Khangkhui, and Pushing, said the MLA.
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The vote of thanks was delivered by Soyo Wungsek, the headman of Shirui Village, Chingkha. He expressed his joy and gratitude for the concern shown by the officers and the public towards Shirui Village. Wungsek also urged everyone to continue their support, highlighting that it is through this support that Shirui Village is able to provide water to the entire Ukhrul town.
A ceremonial tree plantation was carried out by distinguished dignitaries, followed by a mass sapling plantation around the foothills of the Shirui peak. Approximately 150 participants, including women, children, youth, and men from Shirui Village, led by their two headmen, actively participated in planting 400 varieties of trees.
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Several notable guests graced the occasion, including Kengoo Zuringla Deputy Commissioner of Ukhrul District, Rinthing Hongchui, Additional Superintendent of Police of Ukhrul District and Shanngam S Divisional Forest Officer of Ukhrul Forest Division.
The celebration of Van Mahotsav will continue with a roadside plantation event on July 11 starting at 11:00 AM. The plantation will take place from Dungrei Junction to Ukhrul Townhall, further promoting the importance of afforestation and environmental conservation.
The 74th Van Mahotsav is celebrated to promoting conservation of forests and fostering a sense of responsibility towards the environment among the citizens.
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