In a compelling demonstration of solidarity for wildlife conservation, hundreds of students converged on Thursday for a rally, marking the 70th Wildlife Week Celebration 2024.
The event, organised by the Wildlife Wing of the State Forest Department in collaboration with the Central Forest Division, aimed to foster awareness about wildlife conservation and advocate for eco-friendly practices, emphasising the importance of safeguarding the nation’s natural heritage, stated a release.
The rally held on the theme ‘Wildlife Conservation through Co-existence’ commenced from the Western Gate of Kangla and culminated at Hapta Kangjeibung, it stated. It was organised as a part of a broader celebration of Wildlife Week, which began from Wednesday and will be held from till October 8, it mentioned.
Inaugurating the event, Additional Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF), Government of Manipur, Soreiphy Vashum urged the students to become proactive torchbearers for conservation initiatives, it stated.
Taking part in the programme, Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife), Joykumar, emphasised the crucial role of wildlife in the ecosystem and the collective responsibility to protect these invaluable resources, it said. He encouraged the students to actively engage in wildlife conservation efforts, fostering a sense of stewardship towards the environment, it added.
Students from various educational institutions throughout Imphal participated, brandishing colorful banners and chanting slogans that echoed their commitment to wildlife protection, it noted.
The creative posters crafted by the students showcased endangered species and conveyed urgent messages highlighting the critical need for conservation efforts, it stated.
It further highlighted the series of activities and programs initiated by the Forest Department to cultivate a culture of sustainability and coexistence, reinforcing the message that humans must share the planet with other living beings.
It stated that the overarching goal of the Wildlife Week celebrations is to galvanize youth involvement in environmental conservation, emphasizing that every action, no matter how small, contributes to protecting our planet’s biodiversity.
It also encouraged individuals to adopt sustainable practices that align with conservation values, fostering a future where both humanity and wildlife can thrive together.
