IT News
Imphal/Chandel, April 22:
In observance of Earth Day 2025 under the theme “Our Power, Our Planet”, various initiatives were organized across Manipur to promote environmental responsibility and sustainable living, with a strong appeal against the use of single-use plastic.
The Central Forest Division, Government of Manipur, led a special cleanliness drive at Cheirao Ching in the Langol Reserved Forest area. The event, spearheaded by Vikram Nadhe, IFS, Divisional Forest Officer (DFO), saw the enthusiastic participation of students, teachers, local clubs, and volunteers. Approximately 47 bags—about 9 cubic metres—of plastic waste were collected during the drive.
The initiative highlighted the importance of forest conservation and community engagement in environmental protection. Participants took part in collecting litter, removing non-biodegradable waste, and spreading awareness on sustainable practices.
Speaking at the event, DFO Vikram Nadhe called for collective community action to protect forest ecosystems and biodiversity. “This year’s Earth Day theme reminds us that the power to bring change lies in our hands. Our forests are the lungs of the planet, and through such initiatives, we foster a sense of responsibility among our youth and communities,” he said.
He also made a general appeal to the public to practice sustainable eco-tourism and to avoid single-use plastic, which has been banned by the National Green Tribunal. He noted that district-level task forces have been formed to curb its use and urged citizens to switch to more eco-friendly alternatives.
Similarly in Kakching, Earth Day 2025 was observed at Kakching Public School, Kakching Wairi Senapati Leikai, under the theme “This is our Power, our Planet: Renewable Energy.” The event was organised by Sin-Pang Foundation and sponsored by Ministry of Earth Sciences, Government of India.
The event was graced by L. Keshwarchandra, Headmaster of Kakching Public School, N. Rameshwar, Retired Principal of Kakching Higher Secondary School, and Dr. N. Subhas Chandra, Retired Associate Professor of Kha Manipur College, Kakching. Dr. Mayanglambam Roma attended the programme as the resource person and spoke on environmental awareness and the importance of renewable energy.
As part of the event, prizes were distributed to the winners of a drawing competition held in connection with Earth Day. A tree plantation drive was also carried out, promoting the spirit of environmental responsibility.
In a parallel event in Chandel district, the Divisional Forest Officer, Chandel, organised an Earth Day awareness programme at Japhou Upper Primary School. The programme, attended by over 300 students, was presided over by Principal Nicodim Monshang, with Dr. N. Munal Meitei, DFO Chandel, as the Chief Guest.
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Munal Meitei emphasized Earth Day as a global reminder of the planet’s fragility and the urgent need for environmental protection. “Earth is the only known planet that supports life. Yet, it faces immense threats from climate change, deforestation, and human negligence. If the Earth dies, we won’t be able to survive,” he warned.
Dr. Munal Meitei encouraged students to become environmental ambassadors, spreading awareness not just on Earth Day but every day. He urged the younger generation to raise their voices for the planet, echoing the calls of nature and the songs of birds as reminders of what is at stake.
Both the Imphal and Chandel events concluded with a pledge to continue such initiatives and strengthen collaborations with educational institutions and local communities to foster environmental consciousness and sustainable habits across the state.