Ukhrul, June 5 | EKHON: The Ukhrul District Working Journalists Association (UDWJA), in collaboration with the Directorate of Environment and Climate Change, Government of Manipur, observed World Environment Day 2026 with an awareness programme and mass tree plantation drive at Phungyo Baptist Church (PBC), Ukhrul. The event, themed “Now for Climate – Inspired by Nature for Climate, For Our Future,” brought together church leaders, government officials, journalists, and community members to promote environmental conservation and climate action. Participants reaffirmed their commitment to safeguarding nature through speeches, reflections, and a symbolic plantation drive.
Church Elder Ameison Shaiza opened the programme with an invocation, calling World Environment Day one of humanity’s most significant observances. He stressed that environmental protection deserves as much attention as politics, as it directly impacts lives and livelihoods. Shaiza urged citizens to become active stewards of the environment, emphasizing the responsibility of the present generation.
Highlighting the spiritual dimension of environmental responsibility, Associate Pastor Seth Ragui reflected on the Biblical mandate to care for creation. He noted that the abundance of natural resources bestowed upon humanity carries with it a duty to protect and preserve the environment for the common good.
Chief Medical Officer of Ukhrul, Dr. Kapangring AS, praised Phungyo Baptist Church, regarded as the Mother Church of Manipur, for spearheading the initiative. He underlined the close connection between environmental health and public well-being, stating that clean water, fresh air, hygienic surroundings, and organic food are essential foundations of a healthy society. Calling for collective action, he encouraged citizens to work together in building a healthier and more sustainable future.
Polly Makang, MCS, ADC and ADM of Ukhrul, acknowledged the growing urgency of environmental protection. Despite her demanding schedule, she said she chose to attend the programme because environmental conservation is an issue that concerns every individual and community. She commended the organisers for creating awareness on a subject of critical importance.
Addressing the gathering, SDO Ukhrul Dingringngam Kamei reminded participants that human beings are merely custodians of nature. Citing Mahatma Gandhi’s well-known observation that “Nature has enough for everyone’s need, but not for everyone’s greed,” he called for the eradication of poppy cultivation and advocated large-scale tree plantation as a means of combating environmental degradation and the drug menace. He also encouraged the planting of beneficial tree species and the preservation of Ukhrul’s natural beauty, recalling the district’s pristine environment during his earlier posting there as a Sub-Divisional Collector. “Plant trees but not the wrong trees.”
A special environmental pledge administered by Hopkinson Chiphang, Chairman of the Board of Trustees, saw participants commit themselves to protecting forests, conserving biodiversity, and promoting sustainable environmental practices.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by UDWJA President Lester Makang, who expressed appreciation to all stakeholders for their cooperation and support in making the observance successful.
Later, participants joined a mass tree plantation drive at PBC Cemetery in Tangrei and Mission Ground in Alungtang, Ukhrul, symbolizing a commitment to a greener, healthier, and climate-resilient future. The World Environment Day observance in Ukhrul highlighted that protecting nature is a moral responsibility, not just an environmental necessity. The event marks local communities’ role in securing a sustainable future through awareness and action.
