The Chandel Forest Division observed World Animal Day and World Habitat Day at St. Paul Higher Secondary School, Liwa Changning, today as part of Wildlife Week, being observed across India from October 2 to 8.
The programme was organised by the Divisional Forest Officer (DFO), Chandel, Dr N. Munal Meitei, in collaboration with the school. St. Paul Higher Secondary School Principal Benjamin Khudai and Range Forest Officer, Chandel, N. Deepa also attended the programme.
Addressing around 1,500 students, Dr. Munal said the two observances are closely linked to wildlife conservation and stressed the need to recognise the rights of animals to live and thrive in their natural habitats.
Speaking on the theme of this year’s World Animal Day, “See the World through their Eyes,” he urged people to understand the suffering of animals and recognise their role in maintaining ecological balance. He said human activities are increasingly destroying natural habitats and that the loss of wildlife cannot be reversed simply by creating artificial replacements.
Dr. Munal also stressed that humans depend on other species and nature for food, shelter and a healthy environment, and urged students and young people to develop greater concern for wildlife and its habitats.
Observing that World Habitat Day is marked on the first Monday of October every year, he said the observance focuses on the right to adequate shelter and the need to protect habitats for both humans and wildlife. He said habitat loss, climate change and food insecurity are creating growing challenges for communities and wildlife worldwide.
He highlighted habitat conservation as one of the most effective ways of protecting wildlife and maintaining ecological balance, while also noting its potential to support local livelihoods and tourism.