Ukhrul, June 30: The Forest Department, Government of Manipur, launched the 76th edition of Van Mahotsav 2025 with a grand inaugural event held at Pidoinu Laiphamlen, Pungdongbam, Khamenlok–Gwaltabi Reserved Forest, on Tuesday, July 1, at 8:30 AM.
The event was graced by Anurag Bajpai, IFS, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF) and Head of Forest Force (HoFF), as the Chief Guest. RK Amarjit Singh, IFS, Conservator of Forests (Central Circle), presided over the occasion.
A highlight of the event was the formal introduction of Miss Shirui Lily 2025 Esme Singh Shaiza, and Miss Disti Athokpam Devi, 1st Runner-up Miss Shirui Lily 2025, as the official Brand Ambassadors of the 76th Van Mahotsav 2025, Manipur. The recognition was part of a broader collaboration with the Miss Shirui Lily Organising Committee under the ongoing “Save Shirui Lily” campaign, which seeks to raise awareness and protect the iconic and endangered Shirui Lily flower and its unique habitat.
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In the lead-up to the launch, the Miss Shirui Lily 2025 winners, along with members of the organising committee, met with Anurag Bajpai to discuss key issues related to biodiversity conservation in Shirui hills, sustainable development, and the role of youth and creative industries , including fashion, textiles, and entertainment, in ecological awareness.
The department acknowledged the commitment and potential of both young ambassadors, expressing hope that their involvement would further the outreach of environmental initiatives in the state.
The Van Mahotsav, celebrated across India since 1950, is an annual festival of tree planting and forest conservation. The 2025 edition marks the 76th year of this green movement, reaffirming the commitment of Manipur to preserving its rich natural heritage.