Two Reptiles locally known as Leikang Thengu (Manipuri), Guiphop (Rongmei) , Asian Giant Tortoise (Manouria emy) were handed over to the DFO, Tamenglong Kharibam Hitler Singh, RFO Tamenglong Joel Gangmei & Tamenglong Forest Division Staff.
The Tortoises were handed over by SDO, Tousem Paul Nangsha MCS which measured about 16 kg in weight brought from Vanchengphai Village. A village youth of Tongtao Shri Simeon Gangmei handed over another Asian Giant Tortoise measuring about 5 kg in weight. These Tortoises shall be further handed over to the Director, Manipur Zoological Park Laishram Birmangol Singh for strengthening the Artificial Incubation of Asian Giant Tortoise in the Zoological Park in collaboration with the IndiaTurtle Conservation Program (ITCP) to protect this critically endangered reptile, which is native to the North East. The species is also listed in Schedule I of Wildlife Protection Act 1972 (Amended 2022).