Make climate action core part of development agenda: Manipur Governor

Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Balla who attended the valedictory function of the Indian Himalayan Region Climate Change Conclave at City Convention Centre, Imphal on Friday said that that the conclave must translate its plans into real action.
The two-day event, organized by the state directorate of environment and climate change, served as a platform for research, policy dialogue, and knowledge sharing on climate change in the Himalayan region.
The conclave brought together around 400 participants, including the state government representatives from 12 Himalayan states, independent researchers and experts, line departments and agencies, members of the scientific community, private sector leaders, NGOs, civil society organizations, and academic institutions.
In his address, the Governor emphasized that the impacts of climate change were being felt acutely in Manipur, a state nestled in the eastern Himalayas and known for its rich biodiversity and cultural heritage.
He noted that the state was increasingly experiencing erratic weather patterns, with 2024 recording unprecedented heat – Jiribam reaching 43°C – and rainfall becoming highly unpredictable. Announcing the release of the updated State Action Plan on Climate Change (Version 2), the Governor said “this must translate into real action and not remain merely a plan”, as it integrates district-level vulnerability assessments and aligns with national climate goals.
The Governor also highlighted key initiatives such as the Model Carbon-Positive Eco-Village at Phayeng, the Integrated Ecosystem Services Project at Nungkot Sarbel Machenpat in Andro, conservation efforts at major wetlands including Loktak Lake, and the Spring Rejuvenation Programme in Ukhrul, Kamjong, and Senapati, where over 490 natural springs have been mapped to strengthen water security and climate resilience.
The Governor stressed that these efforts reflect how policy, science, and community participation can work together to build resilience, reaffirming the government’s commitment to making climate action a core part of Manipur’s development agenda.
Earlier, the Governor visited the exhibitions and stalls set up as part of the conclave and appreciated the innovative initiatives and community-led efforts showcased there.
The Governor also released five books – 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 inaugurated the State Environment & Climate Data Centre virtually as well.