Under the global theme “Now for Climate – Inspired by Nature for Climate, For Our Future,” the Ukhrul District Working Journalists Association (UDWJA) in collaboration with the Directorate of Environment and Climate Change, Government of Manipur, observed World Environment Day 2026 with an awareness programme and mass tree plantation drive at Phungyo Baptist Church (PBC), Ukhrul.
The programme was attended by Government officials, church leaders, community members and journalists from Ukhrul.
Associate Pastor of PBC, Seth Ragui, highlighted the significance of World Environment Day from a Biblical perspective, stating that God has blessed humanity with abundant natural resources to sustain life and therefore people have a responsibility to protect and preserve creation.
Dr. Kapangring A Shimray, Chief Medical Officer, Ukhrul, lauded Phungyo Baptist Church—widely regarded as the Mother Church of Manipur—for taking the lead in such a meaningful initiative. He emphasized that access to clean water, hygienic surroundings, fresh air, and healthy organic food are essential components of a healthy society. Calling for collective action, he urged citizens to work together to create a better environment and a healthier future.
Polly Makan, ADC and ADM, Ukhrul, remarked that despite her busy official schedule, she chose to attend the programme because environmental protection is the need of the hour. She appreciated the organizers for creating awareness on a subject that concerns every section of society.
Addressing the gathering, Dingringngam Kamei, SDO, Ukhrul, reminded participants that humans are merely stewards of nature. Quoting Mahatma Gandhi’s famous words, “Nature has enough for everyone’s need, but not for everyone’s greed,” he called for the complete eradication of poppy cultivation and encouraged extensive tree plantation as a means to combat environmental degradation and the growing drug menace. He further urged people to plant beneficial trees and preserve the natural beauty of Ukhrul, recalling how pristine the district’s environment was during his first posting there as an SDC.
Hopkinson Chiphang, Chairman of the Board of Trustees Phungyo Baptist Church led the pledge.
A mass tree plantation drive was conducted at the PBC Cemetery, Tangrei, and the Mission Ground, Alungtang, Ukhrul, symbolizing a collective commitment towards building a greener, healthier, and climate-resilient future.
The observance served as a strong reminder that protecting nature is not merely an environmental responsibility but a moral obligation owed to future generations.
