This significant milestone has garnered endorsement from the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Government of India, under the National Plan for Conservation of Aquatic Ecosystems’ (NPCA) scheme, aimed at the conservation and management of wetlands.

The approval letter was presented to LDA authorities during a meeting with senior officials of the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) in New Delhi.

LDA authorities stated that this approval signifies a significant stride in our commitment to safeguarding Loktak Lake’s ecological integrity while fostering sustainable societal benefits. It integrates the full spectrum of ecosystem services and biodiversity values of the wetland complex into our land and water resource management and developmental planning processes. This approach aligns with the wise use principles outlined in the Ramsar Convention, emphasizing the preservation of ecological character through ecosystem-based approaches within the framework of sustainable development.

The IMP will focus on several key areas, including Institutions & Governance; Land and Water Management; Species conservation and habitat management, and Sustainable Resource Development & Livelihood.

It encompasses various actions such as delisting Loktak Lake from the Montreux Record, Integrated Wetland Inventory, Assessment & Monitoring System, Constitution of Scientific Advisory, Communication & outreach programs, implementation of water allocation plan, rejuvenating the natural drainage system, removing Phumdis, maintaining the open water regime, improving water quality, afforestation in the catchment area, consolidating Keibul Lamjao National Park boundaries, eco-development, developing Wetland link Cultural Heritage, developing sustainable fishery, community-managed fisheries strategy, identifying fish breeding grounds, enhancing community livelihoods, and more.