Bear conservation drive held in Manipur

Imphal: Bear conservation drive held in Manipur

In a significant move to bolster wildlife conservation efforts, the Tamenglong Forest Division organized a one-day Awareness Program on Forest Protection with a Special Focus on Bear Conservation on Saturday, July 5, at Phelong village under the Tousem Range in Tamenglong District, Manipur. The event aimed to sensitize local communities on the ecological importance of bears, particularly the Himalayan Black Bear (Ursus thibetanus laniger), and their crucial role in maintaining the forest ecosystem. Around 60 villagers participated actively in the awareness sessions. Key dignitaries and resource persons present included Joel Gangmei, RFO Tamenglong; A. Promeshwor Singh, RFO Tousem; Meiruthai Panmei, Member of the Manipur Wildlife Board; and Withuing Inchangta, Secretary of the Phelong Village Authority. These experts highlighted pressing issues such as habitat loss, poaching, and human-wildlife conflict affecting bear populations across India. Particular emphasis was laid on the Himalayan Black Bear, which is listed under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, affording it the highest level of protection. Speakers advocated for community-led conservation, encouraging villagers to become "Bear Guardians" and adopt measures to support peaceful coexistence. The urgency of the cause was further underlined by a recent rescue operation where two orphaned Himalayan Black Bear cubs, around three months old, were rescued from Kadi village. The cubs were handed over to the Manipur Zoological Gardens by DFO Kharibam Hitler Singh and RFO Joel Gangmei, and formally received by Dr. L. Saratchandra Singh, Veterinary Officer, on June 29, 2025, at Iroishemba. The program ended with a strong call for collaborative efforts between forest officials and local communities to safeguard the region's rich biodiversity for future generations.