70th Wildlife Week 2024 Cycle rally staged to spread awareness of wildlife conservation

By Our Staff Reporter
IMPHAL, Oct 6 : Celebrating the 70th Wildlife Week, the Wildlife Wing of the Forest Department, in collaboration with the Central Forest Division, hosted a cycle rally today aimed at promoting wildlife conservation and environmental awareness.
The event saw enthusiastic participation from over 210 cyclists, representing various age groups and organizations, including students from MAMBA, the Department of Zoology, Manipur University, DM College, a team of doctors from RIMS, and groups like Doctors on Pedal and Team 195 bpm and Registrar General, High Court of Manipur and some DLOs of Imphal East and Imphal West.
The rally was officially launched by Longjam Joykumar, Chief Conservator of Forests, Government of Manipur.
The primary goal was to raise awareness about the importance of protecting wildlife and preserving natural habitats.
Wildlife Week, observed annually in India from October 2 to October 8, aims to engage citizens in activities that highlight the importance of conserving the Nation’s rich wildlife heritage.
This year’s cycle rally was a central feature of the 70th Wildlife Week celebrations, showcasing the community’s commitment to this cause, in convergence with Fit India Movement Mantra of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Today, the cyclists traversed an 18-kilometre route, from Manipur Forest Training School in Luwangshangbam to Manipur Zoological Garden in Iroishemba.
The rally passed through Minuthong, Hatta, Sanjenthong, and the Kangla Western Gate, sharing messages about wildlife conservation and sustainable living practices.
The participants took a pledge to spread the message of conserving wildlife. On the occasion, Chief Conservator of Forest Joykumar emphasized that the rally serves as a reminder that "wildlife is an integral part of our ecosystem, and each of us has a role to play in its protection.”
He underscored the significance of fostering community responsibility towards wildlife.
Conservator of Forests/Southern Circle, Sanajaoba Singh emphasised on the role of youths in protection of wildlife.