Challenges of Forest Conservation in Manipur

Despite being one of the states of India situated in the Indo-Burma Biodiversity Hotspot, which is one of only two biodiversities 'hotspots' in the entire subcontinent, the forest covers of Manipur, have incessantly been depleted by various factors. This article discusses only four significant challenges, which we think are crucial to rejuvenating the forest cover. These four challenges are poppy cultivation, encroachment in Reserved Forest areas, timber business, and firewood extraction. The article concludes with positive stories of forest conservation such as Ching Eco-Park, Punsilok Nature Reserve, Uyok of Phayeng village, and Joint Forest Management initiatives in Lamdeng village which has impacted local youth to get involved in nature conservation.