A tree plantation drive, “Tree Plantation Drive 1.5 – Porompat Ningol Van”, was organised at the Star Sporting Club Ground, Porompat, on Sunday, bringing together Ningols, local residents, community organisations and other stakeholders in a collective effort towards environmental conservation.
The initiative forms part of the Ningol Van programme launched by the Government of Manipur on March 21, 2026, to mark the International Day of Forests. The programme seeks to place women, or Ningols, at the forefront of community-led forest conservation while promoting environmental protection and sustainable livelihood opportunities across the state’s 16 districts.
Speaking at the programme, Kshetrigao Assembly Constituency MLA Sheikh Noorul Hassan commended the Ningols of Porompat for taking the lead in the plantation initiative. He said women in Manipur have historically played an important role in social and economic activities and have also contributed significantly to forest conservation and environmental protection.
Calling upon the participants to ensure the survival of the saplings, the MLA urged the community to regularly nurture and protect the newly planted trees so that they develop into healthy, mature trees. He stressed that conserving forests and expanding green cover are essential for safeguarding the environment and the well-being of future generations.
DFO, Central Forest Division, Vikram Suresh Nadhe, IFS, appreciated the efforts of the Forest Department and community members in strengthening forest conservation initiatives. He also highlighted the distinctive role of Manipuri women in protecting natural resources and preserving the environment.
The plantation drive saw active participation from dignitaries, members of the Porompat Ningol Van team and local residents, who planted saplings at the Star Sporting Club Ground.
Among those present were MLA Sheikh Noorul Hassan, Vikram Suresh Nadhe, IFS, DFO, Central Forest Division, and Prof. (Dr.) Th. Asha Sinha, Director, Research and Development, MIU and President of the Association of MSAP Alumni, Manipur, besides community representatives and other dignitaries.