IMPHAL, July 2 - The Van Mahotsav was celebrated at Peace Ground in Manipur�s Churachandpur district on Monday with a series of programmes.
Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh, Forest and Environment Minister Th Shyamkumar, Agriculture Minister V Hangkhanlian and MLAs S Rajen, TN Haokip, Chaltolien Amo and Churachandpur ADC Chairman T Paukhanlian participated in the programme.
Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Minister said that the main idea of celebrating the Van Mahotsav is to sensitise the people on climate change and global warming.
Forest areas, especially in the hill districts of the state, are shrinking due to rampant deforestation, he sought cooperation from the people in conserving forests. The recently launched Green Mission Manipur would soon be expanded across the State, and people need to take a proactive role, he added.
He also urged upon the people to preserve and conserve the forest areas in the greater interest of flora and fauna.
In his speech, Forest and Environment Minister Th Shyamkumar said that Churachandpur district has a vast forest area, but the people need to preserve it. Agriculture Minister V Hangkhanlian said that the state Government is working on a plan to replace jhum cultivation.
