Manipur ponies stare at grim future

By Our Staff Reporter
IMPHAL, Aug 23: Due to rapid urbanisation, Manipur ponies, which is an integral part of Sagol Kangjei (polo) are staring at an uncertain future.
An ever-increasing encroachment on the natural habitat of birds and animals for construction of offices, schools etc is challenging the very survival of this horse breed as not many places are left for them to graze or run/play freely.
As fast shrinkage of natural habitat forces ponies to come out in streets and markets for foods, their future looks gloomy considering the past instances of animals meeting their ends in road accidents or after consuming poisonous leftovers.
There are also instances of people attacking ponies for entering their fields or places for food or shelter.
Taking note of the hardship being faced by Manipur ponies, Ikop Ningthou Sagol Kangjei Club, Khangabok general secretary, Safouba Khuman urged the State Government to allot some portion of Ikop Pat as a grazing place for ponies. 
He also urged the State Government to set up a polo ground at Chirapur Lampak,  Khangabok.
Urging all to contribute in giving Manipuri pony a better life, Safouba expressed gratitude to Yening Animal Foundation (YAF) for protecting birds and animals at their capacity.