In the inaugural session, Prof. Debananda Singh Ningthoujam, Dean, School of Life Sciences, Manipur University, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest, while Prof. Naorem Mohilal Meitei, former Director of CDC and former Head of the Department of Zoology, attended as the Guest of Honour. The function was presided over by Prof. Thingbaijam Binoy Singh, Head of the Department of Zoology. The dignitaries and participants were warmly welcomed by Dr. Himika Salam.
In his speech, Prof. Naorem Mohilal Meitei reiterated the significance of World Wildlife Day and traced its historical origins. He also emphasized various conservation measures necessary to protect wildlife.
The Chief Guest, Prof. Debananda Singh Ningthoujam, stressed the importance of critical thinking and inquiry in higher studies. He urged participants to go beyond symbolic celebrations and actively engage in wildlife conservation. He elaborated on mass extinctions, citing the ongoing sixth mass extinction, which is believed to be occurring at an accelerated rate compared to previous extinctions. He also introduced the acronym “HIPPO” (Habitat destruction, Invasive species, Pollution, Population growth, and Overexploitation) to explain the primary causes of biodiversity loss, providing several examples.
In his presidential address, Prof. Thingbaijam Binoy Singh emphasized the significance of habitat restoration for wildlife conservation. Sharing his experiences from Shiroy Hills, he explained why the Shiroy Lily is found exclusively in that region and highlighted the need for preserving such unique ecosystems.
The inaugural function concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Dr. L. Bina Chanu.
The afternoon session featured two insightful talks: 1st Talk: “Importance of Conservation” – Dr. Konthoujam Khelchandra Singh, Department of Environmental Science, MU
Dr. Khelchandra discussed the funding requirements for conservation strategies, the major threats to wildlife (such as poaching, wildlife trade, and habitat destruction), and the challenges facing wildlife in wetland ecosystems. He elaborated on the ongoing conservation crisis and proposed several actionable steps for wildlife conservation. He also highlighted positive conservation success stories, such as the revival of eagle and panda populations.
Shri Premjit shared his experiences in wildlife conservation, emphasizing the decline of honey bee populations and its impact on crop pollination and food production. He warned of potential food shortages due to biodiversity loss and highlighted the medicinal value of wildlife, explaining how various drugs are derived from natural sources. He also spoke about the aesthetic, cultural, ecological, and scientific significance of wildlife conservation, illustrating his points with compelling examples.
With valuable insights from Dr. Himika Salam and Dr. Bina Chanu, the lectures proved to be highly informative and thought-provoking. The speakers emphasized the urgent need for conservation, collaboration among stakeholders, and sustainable strategies to protect wildlife for future generations.
The event concluded successfully, leaving participants inspired and motivated to contribute to wildlife conservation efforts, making the World Wildlife Day 2025 celebration a grand success.
