Sangai population census from February 20 

Anurag Bajpai, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and Chief Wildlife Warden, has announced that Keibul Lamjao National Park will remain closed to visitors from February 20 to February 27, 2026, for the conduct of a population census of the endangered Sangai and other wildlife species.
The closure is intended to facilitate the estimation of the mean population of the Sangai, also known as the Manipur Brow-Antlered Deer, along with associated fauna inhabiting the park. Officials stated that restricting tourist movement during the census period would help ensure accuracy in data collection and prevent disturbance to wildlife.
The exercise forms part of ongoing wildlife management and conservation measures undertaken by the Forest Department. The notification for temporary closure has been issued under Sections 28(a) and 33(d) of the Wildlife (Protection) Act.
Visitors and tourists have been advised to plan their travel schedules accordingly in view of the week-long restriction.