IMPHAL, October 7: Hunters who are participating at the Wildlife Week celebrations are criminals, stated Rural Development and Panchayati Raj minister Francis Ngajokpa at the valedictory function of the wildlife week in GM Hall today.
He attributed global warming and environment hazards to deforestation and the dwindling numbers of wildlife.
Birds, like humans have seasons and we follow the season of birds and animals and act accordingly, Ngajokpa said, adding that animals have mating seasons and seasons of hibernation but they can`™t express that they are in peril.
We get to know of our impending seasons because of animals but we pay our gratitude by shooting and eating them, he added.
Asserting that animals can live happily without a home but humans beings despite living in houses made of concrete unfortunately are despondent, he said. The
Forest department should take up steps to spread awareness to the people about the value of wildlife and forest, but unfortunately they only know the value of money therefore fell and sell trees, Ngajokpa added.
As a part of the function, a book, `Checklist of Birds of Manipur`, written by Kumam Jugeshwor Singh and published by the Forest Department of Manipur about the birds of Manipur which are on the brink of extinction was released.
Meanwhile, prizes were distributed to 27 contestants in various competitions in connection with the 59th wildlife week celebration. The 8th State Wildlife Protection Incentive Award was also distributed.
In the valedictory function, Ngajokpa was the chief guest while Lamsang MLA, W Brajabidhu Singh was the president with principal chief conservator of forest and chief wildlife warden PN Prasad, IFS as the guest of honour.