Imphal: The Manipur Cabinet has resolved to notify Kharungpat Bird Sanctuary in Kakching district under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, marking an important milestone in the State’s conservation strategy and eco-tourism development.
The proposed bird sanctuary will cover an area of about 227 hectares (ha), which is approximately 6.7 per cent of the total wetland area. The sanctuary is significant from a biodiversity point of view, particularly for the conservation of waterbirds, including both resident and migratory species.
In the last bird census conducted in 2023, about 69 bird species were recorded, of which around 40 per cent were migratory.
However, in the latest census of 2025, there has been a decline in the number of migratory birds, which has become a matter of serious concern for the Government of Manipur.
The primary reason for this decline is believed to be the loss of suitable habitat, roosting sites, and local disturbances. Taking note of these issues, the government has decided to notify the area as a bird sanctuary in response to public demand.
The proposed sanctuary is also seen as an upcoming eco-tourism site by the State Forest Department. Chief Wildlife Warden of Manipur, Anurag Bajpai, said the department would facilitate projects for the development of the sanctuary in coordination with the Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change, Government of India.
he Forest Department will also constitute an Eco-Development Committee involving local villagers to promote eco-tourism and livelihood activities in the area.
The state government is positioning this initiative as a “people’s project,” combining ecosystem conservation with livelihood promotion. Bajpai added that the conservation of waterbirds is an integral part of wetland management.
According to Criterion 5 of the Ramsar Convention, a wetland qualifies as a site of international importance (Ramsar Site) if it regularly supports 20,000 or more waterbirds.
The notification of the sanctuary is the outcome of public demand led by local MLA Usham Deben Singh and is supported by the Keirak United Development Association, Citizens’ Association for Rural Development, members of the Wabagai Zila Parishad, and the South Tentha Youth Development Organisation.
Bajpai expressed gratitude to the local MLA, Zila Parishad members, associations, clubs, villagers, and local administration, including the DC, DFO, and Range Forest Officer, for their support and efforts in conserving the region’s natural heritage, which reflects the rich cultural heritage of Manipur.
