The Amur Falcon Festival 2021 was celebrated at Chiuluan village in Tamenglong district, Manipur as a part of the effort to conserve and protect the falcon called Akhoipuina in local dialect, based on the traditional believe that the migratory falcons bring good tidings for the dry cold months. Traditional dance and fervour marked the celebration.
Today, Akhoipuina has become an "ambassador of wildlife conservation", said Awangbow Newmai, Manipur Forest, Environment and Climate Change Minister.
“Earlier hundreds of roast Amur Falcons were seen put up for sales in Tamenglong bazaar. But, today it is a rare sight. This is called change. I thanked the stakeholders and forest department,” the minister said, speaking as chief guest of the event.
The sixth edition of the Amur Falcon Festival was organised by Tamenglong Forest Division in association with Chiuluan village authority and Rainforest Club Tamenglong.
Additional chief secretary (Forest & Environment) MH Khan attended as guest of honour. Principal chief conservator of Forest and Head of Forest Force, Dr AK Joshi graced as president of the function.
Dehradun Wildlife institute of India, director Dr Dhananjai Mohan IFS, Dehradun Wildlife institute of India Scientist- E Dr Suresh Kumar, Winner of Whitley Award 2021 Rev Y. Nuklu Phom attended as special invitees.
Deputy commissioner Tamenglong, Hungyo Warshang, superintendent of police Tamenglong Anupam, DFO Noney, SDO Tousem and wildlife warden among others also attended the festival.
In her welcome speech,Gaithaoliu Thaimei, Conservator of Forests/Western Circle cum nodal officer, TRIFED, Manipur who is also incharge of District Forest Officer Tamenglong, said that the winged guests started arriving in Tamenglong on October 8 for roosting in their usual migratory route.
The radio tagged “Chiuluan Amur Falcon” migrated for the third time from their breeding ground at South Siberia and Northern China. Another Radio tagged “Irang Amur Falcon” just arrived on Monday, right on time for the festival, she informed.
She lauded the forest officials, honorary wildlife wardens, DC and SP Tamenglong, and other stake holders for their efforts in protecting the Amur Falcons.
Chiuluan village authority has submitted a memorandum to the minister to construct proper rest camp which can accommodate both domestic and international tourists.
