Press Release

Press Release from Forest Department, Mangan

Information & Public Relations Department

Date: 20-Dec-2024
*Awareness-cum-Distribution Programme Held in Lachen to Promote Wetland Conservation and Management*
Lachen, 20th December 2024: An Awareness-cum-Distribution Programme was successfully organized by the Environment & Soil Conservation Division, Mangan, Forest and Environment Department, Government of Sikkim at Lachen with a focus on the importance of Wetland Conservation and Management. The event witnessed active participation from various stakeholders, including government officials, local leaders, and the public.
The programme was graced by the presence of Shri Karma Legshey D., IFS, Chief Conservator of Forests, Forest and Environment Department, Government of Sikkim, along with other officials, including the Divisional Forest Officer (DFO), Assistant Conservator of Forests (ACF), and field staff of the Environment & Soil Conservation Division, Mangan. Community representatives - Pipons, Gembos, Cheuthumpas, Lamas, and local residents under the Lachen Dzumsa also attended the event.
During the programme, the Chief Conservator of Forests highlighted the ecological and cultural significance of wetlands and stressed the need for their sustainable management. He specifically emphasized the importance of the Integrated Management Plan of Gurudongmar Wetland, undertaken under the National Plan for Conservation of Aquatic Ecosystems (NPCA), Government of India, for the year 2024-25.
This initiative is a testament to the State Government's vision and commitment as envisaged by the Hon'ble Chief Minister Shri Prem Singh Tamang (Golay) in alignment with "Sunawlo Ani Samriddhi Sikkim" to not only preserve our rich natural heritage but also to ensure the prosperity of our communities. By fostering an understanding of wetland conservation and empowering the local people with resources, this initiative affirms to pave the way for a golden and prosperous Sikkim. The journey towards sustainable development and environmental stewardship continues with the active participation of every Sikkimese citizen.
Under the scheme, essential resources were distributed to beneficiaries to support conservation efforts and local livelihoods:
1) MS Pipes (32mm) with enamel paint for prayer flags were distributed to 100 beneficiaries (5 units per beneficiary).
2) High Energy Feed was provided to 25 beneficiaries, primarily yak and sheep herders.
3) 150 cotton canvas garbage bags were handed over to the President of Lachen Tourism Development Committee (LTDC) to promote waste management and eco-tourism.
The programme successfully brought together the local community and government officials to enhance awareness about wetland conservation and provide practical support for sustainable practices. The event concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by the Pepon of Lachen Dzumsa, who appreciated the efforts of the Environment & Soil Conservation Mangan Division and the continued support of the government.