Manipur, a northeastern state of India, is celebrated for its verdant landscapes, rich biodiversity, and extensive forest cover. The states forests not only serve as a haven for flora and fauna but also play a critical role in the socio-economic and cultural lives of its inhabitants. This article delves into the forest resources of Manipur, examining their types, distribution, ecological significance, and the challenges they face.
1. Overview of Forests in Manipur
Manipur is endowed with a forest cover of approximately 77.56% of its geographical area, according to the Forest Survey of India (FSI) 2021. The forests are predominantly tropical and subtropical, with a blend of evergreen, deciduous, and coniferous species.
2. Types of Forests in Manipur
The forests in Manipur can be categorized into the following types:
a. Tropical Semi-Evergreen Forests
Found in the lower elevations of the state.
Characterized by a mix of evergreen and deciduous tree species.
Common species include Hollong, Nahor, and Mesua.
b. Tropical Moist Deciduous Forests
Predominantly located in the valleys and foothills.
Trees shed their leaves during the dry season.
Important species: Teak, Sal, and Bamboo.
c. Subtropical Broad-Leaved Forests
Found in the hilly regions at higher altitudes.
Known for dense canopy and diverse flora.
Includes species like Oak, Chestnut, and Rhododendrons.
d. Subtropical Pine Forests
Found in areas with lower temperatures and moderate altitudes.
Dominated by Pine species, especially Pinus kesiya (Khasi pine).
e. Bamboo Forests
Widespread across the state.
Bamboo is a vital resource for local communities, used for construction, handicrafts, and food.
f. Shifting Cultivation Areas
Associated with "Jhum" cultivation, practiced by indigenous communities.
These forests are often in a transitional state, alternating between regrowth and cultivation.
3. Major Forest Products of Manipur
The forests of Manipur offer a variety of resources:
a. Timber
Timber species like Teak, Sal, and Pine are extensively used for construction and furniture-making.
b. Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFPs)
Bamboo and Cane: Used in construction, crafts, and as a food source.
Medicinal Plants: Manipurs forests are a repository of medicinal plants like Rauwolfia, Ginseng, and Amla.
Wild Edibles: Includes mushrooms, honey, and forest fruits.
c. Fuelwood
A primary source of energy for rural households.
d. Resin and Gums
Extracted from Pine trees and other species.
e. Wildlife Resources
Forests support diverse wildlife, which contributes to eco-tourism and the local economy.
4. Biodiversity of Forests in Manipur
Manipur is part of the Indo-Burma biodiversity hotspot, one of the most species-rich regions globally. The forests host:
a. Flora
Over 500 species of orchids, including rare and endemic varieties like the Shirui Lily (Lilium mackliniae).
Medicinal and aromatic plants.
b. Fauna
Mammals: Sangai (Brow-antlered deer), Hoolock Gibbon, Clouded Leopard.
Birds: Manipur Bush Quail, Hornbills.
Reptiles and Amphibians: Several rare species adapted to the regions climate.
c. Aquatic Life
Rivers and wetlands associated with forests sustain aquatic species like the critically endangered Manipur Catfish.
5. Role of Forests in the Local Economy
Forests significantly contribute to the economy of Manipur through:
Livelihoods: Over 70% of the population depends on forests for fuelwood, fodder, and NTFPs.
Handicrafts: Bamboo and cane-based crafts are a major source of income.
Tourism: Ecotourism destinations like Loktak Lake and Keibul Lamjao National Park attract visitors.
6. Ecological Importance of Forests in Manipur
Forests in Manipur provide vital ecosystem services:
Climate Regulation: Forests act as carbon sinks, mitigating climate change.
Soil Conservation: Prevent soil erosion and maintain fertility.
Water Resources: Forested watersheds support rivers and wetlands, ensuring water availability.
Habitat: Provide shelter for diverse species.
7. Challenges Facing Forests in Manipur
Despite their abundance, forests in Manipur face several threats:
a. Deforestation
Expanding agricultural land and urbanization lead to forest loss.
b. Shifting Cultivation
Traditional practices like Jhum reduce forest density and biodiversity.
c. Illegal Logging
Unregulated timber extraction depletes valuable species.
d. Infrastructure Development
Projects like road construction and hydroelectric dams encroach upon forest areas.
e. Climate Change
Altered rainfall patterns and rising temperatures threaten forest ecosystems.
f. Forest Fires
Frequent fires, often human-induced, destroy large forest tracts annually.
8. Conservation Efforts
Efforts to conserve Manipurs forest resources include:
a. Protected Areas
Keibul Lamjao National Park: Worlds only floating park.
Yangoupokpi-Lokchao Wildlife Sanctuary: Protects diverse fauna.
b. Community Forest Management
Involves local communities in sustainable forest use and conservation.
c. Afforestation Programs
Government initiatives like the Green India Mission aim to restore degraded forests.
d. Legal Framework
Acts like the Forest Conservation Act, 1980, and Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 regulate forest use and protect biodiversity.
e. NGO Participation
Non-governmental organizations actively promote awareness and conservation.
9. Sustainable Forest Management in Manipur
Strategies for sustainable management include:
Promoting agroforestry and alternative livelihoods.
Encouraging eco-tourism to reduce dependence on forest resources.
Strengthening enforcement against illegal logging.
Enhancing community participation in forest governance.