On the occasion of the World Environment Day 2020 which was observed across the state on Friday, newly appointed Forest, Environment and Climate Change Minister Awangbou Newmai released a 20 minute documentary film titled Protected Areas of Manipur the Wilderness Unexplored.
The documentary is produced by the Forest department, Manipur under the Nature Learning Centre, National Mission on Himalayan Studies, Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change, government of India, at Sanjenthong Forest headquarter.
Speaking on the occasion, Newmai expressed his serious concerns on the need for protection and conservation of forests, environment and nature. He highlighted the ecological imbalances created by human beings. He observed that natural calamities witnessed in the recent years are due to ecological imbalance caused by destruction of nature over the years by humans without understanding the close link and various contributions made by nature.
Newmai said the day is a reminder for each and every citizen of the state and the world to commit themselves to protect human life and nature. By protecting nature, we will protect human life and human race, he said.
Expressing that he is fortunate to have been given the charge of the Forest department, Newmai assured that he will work in close association with the department officials for the welfare of the state.
Regarding the release of the documentary film titled ‘Protected Areas of Manipur... the Wilderness Unexplored’, he conveyed his happiness on the production of the documentary and observed that the film will show the people how naturally blessed Manipur is. He expressed his firm commitment to take such actions which are necessary to preserve nature in the state.
The documentary film focussed on all the National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries of Manipur which were notified under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 for conservation and protection of the endemic and endangered wild flora and fauna of the state.
The film will introduce the viewers about the presence of the pristine forest, serene nature and unexplored wilderness in the State and create mass awareness. The film also reflects on Eco-tourism potential in these wild areas of the State.
Additional chief secretary MH Khan; PCCF & HOFF Kereilhouvi Angami; chief wildlife warden Dr AK Josh; additional PCCF Anurag Bajpai and DCF/ Research, Silviculture & Training Division Waikhom Romabai and other senior officers of the government of Manipur were also present during the release of the documentary film.
Another feature film Tangjapham Upal was also released at the function.
