Meitei Ponies, In a significant collaborative effort, the Government of Manipur, alongside various equestrian groups and state offices, has initiated crucial measures to prevent the extinction of the Manipuri Pony, also known as the Meitei Sagol. These measures were formally adopted during a meeting held on May 16 in Imphal.
Decisive Conservation Measures of Meitei Ponies
At the meeting, several key decisions were made to safeguard the breed. These include:
- Rapid collection and protection of the ponies
- Designation of temporary housing areas
- Formation of a dedicated task force
- Continuous consultation and oversight
- A comprehensive study of grazing grounds
- Registration through stud books
- Detailed budget planning for pony management
Historical Significance of the Manipuri Pony
The Manipuri Pony is one of India’s seven recognized horse breeds, distinguished by its historical and cultural significance in Manipur. Historically, these ponies played a crucial role in the local military and were initially bred for Sagol Kangjei, the traditional game that evolved into modern polo.
Alarming Decline in Population
Despite their importance, the population of Manipuri Ponies has plummeted over the years—from 1,898 in 2003 to just 1,089 in 2019. Contributing factors to this decline include urbanization leading to habitat loss, scarcity of polo fields, disease, and cross-border migration.
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Government Initiatives and Policy Framework
In response to the crisis, the Manipuri Pony Conservation and Development Policy (MPCDP) was established in 2016. By 2013, the breed had already been officially listed as endangered. Chief Minister N Biren Singh highlighted recent initiatives, including the allocation of 30 acres in Lamphelpat, Imphal West, to serve as a permanent sanctuary for these ponies. He emphasized the cultural importance of the species and the necessity for collective efforts in its preservation.
Manipuri Pony Conservation and Development Policy
The MPCDP aims to protect and revitalize the endangered Manipuri pony breed, emphasizing several core objectives:
- Establishment of safe shelters and habitats
- Support for breeding programs to boost population numbers
- Promotion of ponies in sports and tourism to increase awareness and support conservation efforts
- Encouragement of research into the unique genetic traits and health issues of the Manipuri pony to aid in population recovery
Conclusion
The joint efforts by the Government of Manipur and various stakeholders underscore a strong commitment to saving the Manipuri Pony from extinction. With historical and cultural roots running deep, these ponies symbolize a rich heritage that is crucial to preserve for future generations.