In a collective effort to raise environmental awareness and promote greener practices, an “Environment Awareness cum Tree Plantation Campaign” was launched at Arapti Mayai Leikai. Organised jointly by the Subaltern Upliftment Organisation and Arapti Mayai Leikai Development Association, the campaign marked its first edition with a vibrant community participation.
The event, held under the theme “Upal Thasi, Upal Hinghansi” (Let’s Plant Trees, Let’s Nurture Trees), took place at Ima Ereima Laibung in Arapti Mayai Leikai. School children from Arapti Junior High School, Meira Paibis, local clubs, and various organisations actively participated in the programme, which aimed to inspire sustainable environmental actions.
Environmental activist Mutum Manikanta, who initiated the campaign, stated that the movement was launched as a meaningful step during his eighth year of activism, to address the increasing challenges of deforestation and ecological degradation in Manipur and other parts of the Northeast. He urged local clubs and civil society organisations across neighbourhoods to join hands in nurturing the planted saplings and spreading the message of environmental stewardship under the campaign’s core theme.
Renowned film actor Hamom Sadananda also participated in the programme and encouraged the youth to reflect on the urgent issues of climate change. Emphasising the long-term value of tree planting, he said that nurturing each sapling requires consistent attention and can lead to the creation of a healthier and more resilient future.
The campaign also reached out to children from underprivileged backgrounds, aiming to instil environmental consciousness and collective responsibility. Participants expressed hope that such grassroots movements will build a more sustainable and environmentally sensitive society.