The Manipuri Pony Society underscores the imperative need for wetland rejuvenation to protect the endangered Manipuri Pony. At a recent consultative meeting on the “Status on Sustainable Preservation of Manipuri Pony,” concerns about the breed’s critical condition were raised.
Hosted by the Directorate of Veterinary and Animal Husbandry Service in collaboration with the Manipuri Pony Society, the event convened at the Veterinary office complex in Sanjenthong.
During the session, N. Ibungochoubi, a member of the Manipuri Pony Society and joint secretary of the Manipur Olympic Association, addressed the media. He emphasized the diminishing wetlands, the natural habitat for ponies, as a significant factor contributing to their declining population, classifying them as an endangered species.
Ibungochoubi pointed out the lack of grazing grounds, pushing ponies onto roads where they encounter accidents and food poisoning from roadside waste.
The Manipuri Pony, also known as Meitei Sagol, is one of India’s seven recognized horse and pony breeds. A 2014 survey by polo riders, clubs, and associations reported only about 600 ponies remaining.
According to the latest Livestock Census of 2019, their number has dwindled to 1,089 from 1,893 in 2003.
Dr. RK Bedajeet Singh, Director of the Directorate of Veterinary and Animal Husbandry Services, urged collective efforts from stakeholders to conserve the breed.
He highlighted the Manipuri Pony Conservation and Development Policy (MPCDP) of 2016 and the recent allocation of 30 acres of grassy fields at Lamphelpat, Imphal West, by the Manipur government as significant steps towards preservation.
The Society insists that establishing a sanctuary, similar to the one for the endangered Manipuri Sangai deer, is not feasible due to the ponies not being listed under the Indian Wildlife Act.
Instead, the restoration of wetlands remains the most viable solution to prevent the extinction of the Manipuri Pony.
