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Imphal, Oct 17 (IANS) Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla on Friday said the effects of climate change are being increasingly felt in Manipur, a state nestled in the eastern Himalayas and known for its rich biodiversity and cultural heritage.
Addressing the valedictory function of the Indian Himalayan Region Climate Change Conclave at the City Convention Centre, Imphal, the Governor said the state is experiencing increasingly erratic weather patterns, with unprecedented heat being recorded in 2024, with temperatures reaching 43 degrees Celsius in Jiribam and rainfall becoming highly unpredictable.
Announcing the release of the updated State Action Plan on Climate Change, he said it should translate into real action and not remain just a plan, as it integrates district-level vulnerability assessments and aligns with national climate goals.
Governor Bhalla also highlighted key initiatives like Model Carbon-Positive Eco-Village in Phayeng, Integrated Ecosystem Services Project at Nungkot Sarbel Machenpat in Andro, conservation efforts in key wetlands including Loktak Lake.
He also highlighted the Spring Rejuvenation Program in Ukhrul, Kamjong and Senapati, where more than 490 natural springs have been mapped to strengthen water security and climate resilience.
The Governor stressed that these efforts demonstrate how policy, science and community partnerships can work together to build resilience, and reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to making climate action a core part of Manipur’s development agenda.
The two-day Indian Himalayan Region Climate Change Conclave, organized by the Directorate of Environment and Climate Change, served as a platform for research, policy dialogue and knowledge sharing on climate change in the Himalayan region.
Principal Secretary (Environment and Climate Change) Arun Kumar Sinha was also present in the program.
The conclave was attended by approximately 400 participants including state government representatives from 12 Himalayan states, independent researchers and experts, line departments and agencies, members of the scientific community, private sector leaders, NGOs, civil society organizations and academic institutions.
The Governor visited the exhibitions and stalls set up as part of the conference and appreciated the innovative initiatives and community-led efforts displayed there.
He also released five books – State Action Plan on Climate Change Version 2; Wetlands of Manipur Version 1.1; Exotic Species of Manipur Version 1.0; Manual on Springs of Manipur Version 1.0 and Phumdi-Based Floating Treatment Wetland System.
The Governor also virtually inaugurated the State Environment and Climate Data Centre.
–IANS
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