Governor of Manipur, Ajay Kumar Bhalla, today graced the Valedictory Function of the two-day Indian Himalayan Region Climate Change Conclave held at the City Convention Centre, Imphal. The event, organised by the Directorate of Environment and Climate Change, Government of Manipur, served as a key platform for research collaboration, policy dialogue, and knowledge exchange on climate change challenges and solutions across the Himalayan region. Principal Secretary (Environment and Climate Change), Arun Kumar Sinha, also attended the function.

The conclave brought together around 400 participants, including representatives from 12 Himalayan States, independent researchers, scientists, government departments, NGOs, civil society organisations, academic institutions, and private sector leaders.

During the event, Governor Bhalla visited the exhibitions and stalls showcasing innovative and community-led climate initiatives. He also released five important publications — State Action Plan on Climate Change (Version 2), Wetlands of Manipur (Version 1.1), Alien Species of Manipur (Version 1.0), Springs of Manipur (Version 1.0), and Manual on Phumdi-based Floating Treatment Wetland System. The Governor further inaugurated the State Environment and Climate Data Centre virtually.

In his address, Governor Bhalla underscored that Manipur, located in the eastern Himalayas and known for its biodiversity, is witnessing the growing impacts of climate change. He noted that 2024 saw record-breaking heat, with Jiribam touching 43°C, and increasingly erratic rainfall patterns.

Highlighting the release of the updated State Action Plan on Climate Change (Version 2), the Governor urged that the plan must lead to tangible on-ground action, as it integrates district-level vulnerability assessments and aligns with national climate objectives.