IMPHAL, August 8: A book entitled “Mahousa Lairmbigee Mashaigonda Thirushi Lao – Yenglusi Lao” written by Dr Khangembam Shamungou was released today at the Press Club, Imphal. The function was organised by the Loktak Development Authority.
B Jayantakumar Sharma, former president, Manipur Sahitya Parishad; Shri Narendra Ningomba, Lyricist and Shri S. Indrakumar Singh, former Director, DDK, Dibrugarh were the chief guest, guest of honour and president of the function respectively.
In his introductory speech, Dr. S. Shyamjai Singh, Wetland Ecologist, LDA emphasised that the publishing of the book is one of the endeavours of the LDA to protect the ecology and environment of the State in general and Loktak Lake in particular. He said the book will help in spreading awareness among the people, particularly the younger generation to fall in love and get well-acquainted with nature especially the birds which plays a pivotal role in conserving the ecology.
Dr. Khagembam Shamungou, the author of the book maintained that though there were numerous birds, both migratory and resident which have their own scientific names and common names, some of them do not have a local name.
Out of the 93 species of birds covered in this book, 23 of them are not named locally. Therefore, he said, it is his earnest endeavour to suitably name 23 of these unnamed birds in Manipuri which is mentioned in the book.