SENAPATI, Oct 7:   The Forest Department of Mao Range, Government of Manipur on Monday launched a public awareness campaign to protect wildlife, particularly focusing on the migratory bird routes. Using a megaphone, officials made announcements on the street from village to village in areas surrounding the migratory bird routes. Their message emphasized the importance of protecting wildlife and prohibiting hunting, warning of strict penalties for violators.

Posters were also displayed in prominent place in each village they visit, with the following slogan: “Wildlife Crime is Very Serious”, “Any person who commits an offence is punishable with a jail term of up to 7 years and a fine of up to Rs. 25,000, or both, depending on the nature of the offence, under The Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, Section 9.”

The campaign stressed the vital role that wildlife, including birds, plays in maintaining the ecosystem. “Wild animals and birds help sustain our environment and have a right to live. Let us stop killing and support wildlife protection activities,” the Forest Department urged.

The initiative highlights the department’s dedication to fostering public awareness and responsibility for the protection of wildlife in the region and calls to support wildlife protection activities.