Ukhrul Community Shows Heightened Environmental Responsibility Amidst Flood Crisis in the State

Ukhrul, June 5: As widespread flooding grips Manipur, including the state capital of Imphal, a powerful wave of environmental consciousness is sweeping through Ukhrul district.

Villages, government officials, youth, and local organizations actively participated in the observation of World Environment Day 2025, demonstrating a profound and increased sense of responsibility towards their environment.

DFO Laishram Gitla, MFS, who has been instrumental in promoting environmental awareness in Ukhrul, shared her perspective from Imphal, where the flood situation remains critical. “It truly shows a sense of increased responsibility among the Tangkhul community,” she remarked, acknowledging the numerous requests and preparations for World Environment Day celebrations despite the immediate challenges posed by the heavy rain and floods. “Even amid the rain and flood, their determination to mark this day is inspiring,” she added.

The Ukhrul Forest Division, in concerted effort with the District Administration, Zonal Education Office, Manipur State Rural Livelihoods Mission, Crisil Foundation, AAJEEVIKA, Centre for Financial Literacy, Manipur Innovative Society, Jessami Village Council, Tangkhul Katamnao Saklong, Jessami Students’ Union, Hoomi Katamnao Long, and Shirui Youth Club, organized and celebrated World Environment Day 2025. The celebration was held at multiple locations across the district.

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The main programme was organised by the Ukhrul Forest Division at the Mini Secretariat Complex, Hamleikhong. The programme was graced by ADM & i/c DC Polly Makan, MCS. She highlighted the government’s commitment to sustainable development and urged community participation in environmental initiatives. She also called for responsible waste management, promotion of eco-friendly alternatives, and community-led clean-up drives to mitigate plastic waste. ZEO Ukhrul, Thaimei Badan, appealed to all to educate, inspire, and act together to empower students to become the environmental champions of tomorrow, safeguarding the beauty and health of Ukhrul for generations to come.

The programme also saw the active participation of CEO/ADC David Kashungnao, MCS; SDO Jessami P. Duna Duo, MCS; SDO Chingai Roland Ningshen, MCS; and other officials and staff. A total of 30 students from Ukhrul Higher Secondary School, Top Junior Aided School, and Model High School participated in the programme. A total of 220 seedlings comprising lemon, thuja, cherry, jackfruit, jamun, and uningthou were distributed.

A significant roadside plantation drive covering over 5 km along National Highway-202, from Jessami towards Akash Bridge, was undertaken, where a total of 530 seedlings comprising quercus, cherry, jamun, and leihao were planted. Plantation along forest fringe areas also took place. The Forest Department, in collaboration with SDO Jessami P. Duna Duo, MCS; MSRLM; Crisil Foundation; AAJEEVIKA; Centre for Financial Literacy; Jessami Village Council; and Jessami Students’ Union, jointly organised the event.

Ukhrul Forest Division, in collaboration with MSRLM, also organised tree plantations and awareness activities at four separate venues: Hungpung Kaziphung, Hungpung Awungtang, Kasomtang, and Luiyainaotang.

At Nayi-Kaphung, the programme was organised in association with Tangkhul Katamnao Saklong (TKS). The event witnessed the enthusiastic participation of 30 youth volunteers and environmentalists. Activities included an awareness session on plastic pollution, an essay writing competition on the theme, and a community tree plantation drive.

President of TKS, Ramreichan Keishing, stated, “It is the duty and responsibility of every citizen to keep our environment clean. However, on this very day, I would like to appeal to the youth to take a proactive role in safeguarding our environment.”

Chirmishan SP, Range Forest Officer of Ukhrul Forest Division, stated, “We are observing World Environment Day in different places of Ukhrul District with various stakeholders. We have undertaken tree plantation and the collection and safe disposal of plastic waste. It is our appeal to every citizen to keep our environment clean and healthy.”

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Further, along with the Manipur Innovative Society, another plantation drive was held along a different stretch of the Nayi-Kaphung belt, further enhancing the green corridor of Ukhrul.

The Forest Department, in a meaningful collaboration with the Shirui Youth Club, saw 20 participants engaging in plantation and clean-up activities, reinforcing Shirui’s commitment to ecological balance.

The programme at Hoomi, in collaboration with Hoomi Katamnao Long, involved 50 local residents and youth who joined hands in spreading awareness and planting seedlings along the roadside of NH-102(A) Ukhrul-Toloi-Tadubi road, covering a 5 km stretch. A total of 600 seedlings of tairen, tolhao, wild olive, and guava species were planted.

The widespread enthusiasm for World Environment Day in Ukhrul, even under such trying circumstances, serves as a powerful testament to the community’s dedication to a greener future. It sends a clear message that despite natural disasters and personal inconveniences, the commitment to environmental stewardship remains unwavering. This collective drive highlights a growing understanding that environmental protection is not a luxury, but a necessity—especially in the face of escalating climate-related challenges.

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