Ukhrul: A declaration made by Teinem Village Authority on November 22 stated that the companionship of Tangkhul Sāfa̱ embedded in Tangkhul culture is of utmost importance in keeping the tradition alive and protect from desuetude.
According to the declaration, their aim is to maintain and grow pure bloodline species amidst the plethora of mixed and cross breeds which could dilute the pure breed in any way or affect the environment from the existing condition. Therefore the area is declared as “Forbidden Land”.
The two main objectives of the TSICF are:
- To serve as a platform for the new generation to safeguard and protect the indigeneous ‘Tangkhul Sãfa̱’.
- To revive the culture of the Tangkhuls through the companionship of Sāfa̱ and ensure the continuity of the species.
The research which encompasses a 4-ridge hillock located at Teinem, Ukhrul District, LM block is situated approximately 17 km away from Ukhrul town, Manipur.
“Unauthorized entry of persons and pets at the Forbidden land is strictly prohibited. Furthermore, the data collected during the research shall remain confidential until the population count of the species is wholly recorded and declared stable”, said Yangsing Raleng, Chairman, Teinem Village.
Oimps Sāfa̱ Conservation and Research Centre (OSCRC) in collaboration with the Tangkhul Sāfa̱ Indigenous Canine Federation (TSICF), which is registered under The Manipur Societies Registration Act, 1989 (Register no. 213/UD/SR/2021), aims to preserve the indigenous canine as well as ensure the continuity of the species.