Ahead of the observance of World Environment Day on June 5, Youth’s Forum for Protection of Human Rights (YFPHR) has called upon the people of Manipur and Northeast India to strengthen efforts to protect the environment and natural resources amid growing concerns over ecological degradation in the region.
In a statement issued in connection with World Environment Day 2026, being observed under the theme “Inspired by Nature. For Climate. For Our Future,” the organisation stated that environmental protection and sustainable development should remain a priority as increasing pressure from mining, mineral extraction, deforestation and large infrastructure projects continues to threaten ecosystems, biodiversity and indigenous livelihoods.
The statement noted that communities across the region have traditionally served as custodians of forests, rivers and other natural resources and stressed that development should not come at the expense of environmental sustainability, displacement of local populations or the loss of traditional means of livelihood.
Expressing concern over ongoing exploration and extraction of mineral resources in Manipur, the organisation called for strict adherence to internationally recognised safeguards. It stated that all such projects should undergo comprehensive Human Rights Impact Assessments (HRIA) and Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA) and comply with the United Nations Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights (UNGPs).
The organisation further urged communities, civil society groups, policymakers and other stakeholders to remain vigilant about emerging environmental threats and work collectively to safeguard the region’s natural heritage.