Concerns Raised Over Misnaming of Manipur's State Animal at Science Congress
Environmentalist Highlights Misnaming Issue
Imphal, Dec 25: Dr. Khangembam Shamungou Singh, a prominent environmentalist from Manipur, has voiced significant concerns regarding the incorrect designation of the state animal, the Sangai (Brow-antlered deer), as ‘Thamin’ in the Schedule I list of mammal species under the Wildlife (Protection) Act of 1972.
Dr. Shamungou stated, “It would be beneficial if the ongoing Manipur Science Congress addresses this issue.” He emphasized that the Sangai, a critically endangered species (Rucervus eldii eldii), is protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act 1972 in India.
“The Act refers to ‘Thamin’ instead of Sangai, which raises questions,” he remarked during his presentation on biodiversity at the recently concluded Manipur Science Congress 2025 held at Manipur University.
He further questioned, “Is the Act safeguarding ‘Thamin’, which is native to South and Southeast Asia, or our Sangai?”
Additionally, former vice chancellor of DM University, Prof. N Rajmuhon, discussed the transformative potential of science and technology in the 21st century, while T Brajakumar, director of DoECC, presented insights on climate change impacts and adaptation strategies relevant to Manipur.
Approximately 300 delegates from various institutions, including participants from outside the state, attended the Manipur Science Congress 2025.
It is noteworthy that the state Governor, Ajay Kumar Bhalla, inaugurated the three-day congress on Saturday, which was organized by Manipur University in partnership with the Manipur Science & Technology Council (MASTEC) and the Directorate of Environment and Climate Change (DoECC), under the theme ‘Science, Innovation and Climate Change’.
The inaugural session featured the recognition of award sponsors, the distribution of three significant awards, and the release of a 375-page souvenir and proceedings book, attended by Prof. N Lokendra Singh, vice chancellor of Manipur University.