In a powerful step toward fostering environmental stewardship among the younger generation, the Democratic Students Alliance of Manipur (DESAM), Jiribam District Council, successfully organized the prize distribution ceremony for the 3rd State Level Environment Quiz Competition 2026. The prestigious event was held on July 24 at the DESAM office in Babupara, Jiribam, bringing together passionate students, environmental advocates, and community leaders.
The quiz competition, originally held on June 7, was centered around the deeply relevant themes of "Inspired by Nature" and "Protecting Save Manipur." As climate change and ecological degradation continue to threaten local biodiversity, initiatives like this serve as a crucial platform to educate and inspire the youth. By integrating environmental consciousness into academics, DESAM is actively working to build a generation of eco-warriors equipped to tackle the state's pressing environmental challenges.
Dignitaries and Inaugural Ceremony
The ceremony commenced with a traditional lighting of the lamp, followed by floral tributes presented by the esteemed presidium members. The dais was graced by prominent figures deeply invested in the socio-ecological welfare of the region. Key dignitaries included Numitkappa Ningthemcha, Range Forest Officer (RFO) of the Headquarters Jiribam Forest Division; Senjam Sainik Kumar Singh, President of the Ethno Heritage Council (HERICOUN), Jiribam; and N. Nivarani Devi, President of the Women Association For Socio Economic Development (WASED) Jiribam. They were joined by W. Premchand, Founder Executive Member of DESAM Head Office, and N. Vivek Meitei, Secretary General of DESAM Jiribam District Council. A warm welcome address and a keynote speech detailing the event's core purpose set an inspiring tone for the day.
Celebrating Young Environmental Champions
The highly anticipated segment of the day was the felicitation of the bright young minds who excelled in the competition, which was divided into two main categories. In Category 1 (Class 7 to 8), Hamom Nonglen secured the first position, followed by Konthoujam Ireena Devi in second, and Laithangbam Manjit Singh in third. Meanwhile, in Category 2 (Class 9 to 12), the top honors went to Nongthombam Menaka Devi, with Mangalsana Paonam and Rebecca Yumnam taking the second and third spots, respectively.
The high-achieving students were awarded momentous mementos, cash prizes, and certificates of excellence. Furthermore, to encourage widespread participation, seven students from each category were recognized with consolation cash prizes and certificates, ensuring that every effort toward environmental awareness was celebrated.
The Urgent Need to Protect Manipur's Ecology
Addressing the gathering, RFO Numitkappa Ningthemcha highlighted the profound alignment between the event's theme and the mission of the forest department. He emphasized that drawing inspiration from nature is essential for building a brighter future for Manipur. "Our youth are the pillars of tomorrow. Guiding them to protect their natural surroundings is not just an option, but a fundamental necessity," he stated, commending DESAM for their continuous efforts in societal upliftment.
Taking a stronger stance on the current ecological crisis, HERICOUN President Senjam Sainik Kumar Singh delivered a thought-provoking speech on the man-made disasters plaguing the region. He pointed out that rampant, unchecked deforestation and the illegal cultivation of poppy have severely damaged the local ecosystem, leading to both environmental and social unrest. "Empowering our students with environmental awareness today is the only way we can ensure a green and peaceful Manipur tomorrow," noted an enthusiastic organizer during the event, echoing Singh's call to action. Singh reminded everyone that preserving the state's natural bounty—its hills, lakes, and rivers—is the collective responsibility of every citizen.
The 3rd State Level Environment Quiz Competition is more than just an academic contest; it is a vital movement toward sustainable living. As the youth of Jiribam and Manipur step forward to embrace their roles as guardians of nature, the community can look forward to a cleaner, greener, and more responsible future.
✍️ Published by Lakhipuronline Team
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