The Central Forest Division celebrated the 71st Wildlife Week 2025 with a strong focus on student engagement through a painting and essay competition held at the Manipur Forest Training Institute, Luwangshangbam. Centered on the theme “Living with Wildlife,” the event sought to promote awareness of human–animal coexistence and encourage the younger generation to embrace wildlife conservation as a shared responsibility.
The celebration witnessed enthusiastic participation from more than 500 students representing over 20 schools across Imphal East and Imphal West districts. Young participants expressed their creativity through vivid paintings and thoughtful essays that highlighted the need for harmony between humans and animals amid growing challenges of habitat loss, encroachment, and climate change.
The programme was graced by senior officials of the Forest Department, with Vikram Suresh Nadhe, IFS, Divisional Forest Officer of Central Forest Division, serving as the Chief Guest. He was joined by Dr. Rebika Soibam Chanu, MFS, Director of the Forest Training Institute, and Range Forest Officers including Tipu Raj Toijam, Shri Kiranjit Yumnam, Sorokhaibam Robatson Singh, Mangsatabam Jobid Meitei, David Athokpam, and Hijam Martin Luwang.
In his keynote address, Nadhe underscored the ecological importance of Manipur as part of the Indo-Burma Biodiversity Hotspot, home to rare and unique species. He stressed the urgency of protecting this fragile ecosystem and drew particular attention to the Sangai deer, Manipur’s critically endangered State Animal. “The Sangai is not just a species, but a symbol of our identity and our responsibility,” he remarked.
He also emphasized the importance of nurturing environmental awareness among students. “Engaging young minds through creative platforms like painting and essay competitions helps inculcate a sense of appreciation for nature and a deeper understanding of the delicate balance between humans and wildlife,” he said. Nadhe further recalled the achievement of Nongpok Maheikol student Soram Jairaj, who secured the 2nd position in the National Painting Competition 2024, bringing laurels to the state.
The competitions were judged by a panel of educators, artists, and environmental experts, who evaluated entries on creativity, thematic relevance, and depth of expression. Winners were honored with prizes and certificates, recognizing their efforts in advocating for conservation.
The Wildlife Week celebrations not only marked an occasion of commemoration but also served as a meaningful platform to instill ecological consciousness among students. The Central Forest Division reaffirmed its commitment to expanding such initiatives, aiming to foster peaceful coexistence and mutual respect between people and wildlife.
