IMPHAL, July 7: Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla led the state-level culmination of the 76th Van Mahotsav on Monday with a strong message on environmental conservation, climate action, and community participation. The celebrations began with a symbolic tree plantation at the historic Kangla Fort Complex, as part of the national campaign “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam 2.0,” followed by a grand finale event at the City Convention Centre.

In his address, Governor Bhalla emphasized the urgency of combating environmental threats such as deforestation and climate change. He praised Manipur’s indigenous communities for preserving age-old forest conservation traditions and urged citizens to contribute by planting trees — calling it a profound tribute to one’s mother and to Mother Earth.

The Governor lauded the Forest Department’s success in planting over 1.3 million saplings across 16 districts within a week. He also highlighted the department’s innovative use of recycled plastic bottles as fencing, describing it as a model of sustainable practice worth replicating.

During the ceremony, awards were given to winners of a state-level painting competition, volunteers were honoured for their role in fighting recent forest fires, and saplings were distributed to student representatives from every district. A special Van Mahotsav 2025 publication was also released.

The event concluded with a collective pledge to protect Manipur’s forests, rivers, and hills. Governor Bhalla urged every household in the state to plant and care for at least one tree, reinforcing the message of collective responsibility and environmental stewardship. Forest officials, educators, students, and local leaders were present in large numbers, reaffirming the state’s commitment to a greener and more sustainable future.