The Directorate of Environment and Climate Change, Government of Manipur, inaugurated a two-day Indian Himalayan Region Climate Change Conclave on Thursday at the City Convention Centre, Imphal. The event, held under the theme “Perspectives of Research, Practice, Policy, and Communication”, aims to strengthen regional collaboration and develop strategies to address the challenges posed by climate change in the Himalayan region.

Dr. Puneet Kumar Goel, IAS, Chief Secretary, Government of Manipur, graced the inaugural session as the Chief Guest, while Shri Arun Kumar Sinha, IAS, Principal Secretary (Forest, Environment & Climate Change), presided over the function.

In his address, Dr. Goel emphasized that the conclave represents an important step toward fostering cooperation among the Himalayan states to promote sustainable development and climate resilience. He noted that the region is highly vulnerable to extreme weather events and environmental degradation, underscoring the need for knowledge-sharing among scientists, researchers, and policymakers.

Highlighting Manipur’s unique geographical setting, Dr. Goel said the state faces the direct impacts of climate change, such as rising temperatures and frequent flooding, which threaten agriculture, water resources, public health, and livelihoods. He reiterated the government’s commitment to implementing adaptive and community-based measures to mitigate these impacts.

Dr. Goel also commended the Directorate’s initiatives in integrating traditional knowledge with modern practices through various pilot projects focused on ecosystem restoration, wetland conservation, sustainable livelihoods, and protection of natural resources. He mentioned that the state is currently managing and conserving five major wetlands—Yaral Pat, Utra Pat, Yaimeng Lake, Waithou-Pumlen-Koidum Pat, and Loktak Lake—as part of its climate mitigation efforts.