Manipur Climate Change Conclave: Key Takeaways and Insights from the IHR Event

Imphal: On Friday, Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla attended the closing ceremony of the Indian Himalayan Region Climate Change Conclave at the City Convention Centre in Imphal. This two-day event, hosted by the Directorate of Environment and Climate Change, focused on the serious topic of climate change in the Himalayan region.

About 400 people were part of the conclave. Participants included representatives from 12 Himalayan states, researchers, experts, and members from various organizations. This mix of backgrounds made for rich discussions on climate challenges.

The Governor took time to visit the exhibition, praising the innovative community projects on display. He also launched five important publications, including the updated State Action Plan on Climate Change. Moreover, he inaugurated the State Environment & Climate Data Centre via video conference.

In his speech, the Governor highlighted the direct effects of climate change in Manipur. He noted alarming weather patterns, mentioning that Jiribam hit a record 43°C earlier this year. Unpredictable rainfall has also become a norm. The Governor stressed that the updated action plan needs to lead to real changes on the ground, incorporating local assessments to meet national goals.

He pointed out several key initiatives aimed at building resilience against climate change. Notable projects include the Model Carbon-Positive Eco-Village at Phayeng and conservation efforts at Loktak Lake. The Spring Rejuvenation Programme is particularly noteworthy, as over 490 natural springs have been identified to help with water security.

Experts agree that these community-driven initiatives are vital for combatting climate impacts. According to a recent survey by the Indian Meteorological Department, the frequency of extreme weather events in the Himalayan region has increased by 47% over the past decade. This makes grassroots efforts essential in adapting to and mitigating the effects of climate change.

Ultimately, the conclave reflects a collective commitment to addressing climate change in Manipur. Combining policy, science, and community action offers a comprehensive response to an increasingly urgent issue. As the impacts of climate change grow, such collaborative efforts will be critical for the future.

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