Significant move: Manipur Govt allots 30 acres land to conserve the legendary Manipuri ponies
First Published: 15th May, 2024 17:26 IST
According to the Manipur government’s livestock census, 129 polo ponies have died in the past 16 years, leaving only 1,089 of the original breeds in the northeast state.
The Manipuri Pony, the breed of small horse found primarily in Manipur and Assam, holds a lot of historical and mythological significance for Manipur. In a significant move, the Manipur government has allotted 30 acres of grassy fields at Lamphelpat, Imphal West for proper conservation of the species now endangered.
Taking to X, CM said, “To protect the endangered Manipuri Pony, they are now given a new home at the government allotted 30 acres of grassy fields at Lamphelpat, Imphal West where they can freely roam and graze.”
“The Manipur State Government has been taking up various measures to protect the Manipuri Pony which is closely tied to the state’s history & culture. We gave the game of Morden polo to the world, and considering the importance of this animal, their preservation requires support from the masses,” CM Singh added.
“I also appreciate the Manipur Horse Riding and Polo Association for their initiative to save the precious yet endangered Manipuri Pony,” he further added.
On January 28, 2024, the livestock census conducted by the Manipur government have disclosed a disheartening statistic that at least 129 polo ponies have succumbed in the past 16 years, leaving only 1,089 of the original breeds in the northeast state.
Despite concerted efforts by the state government to conserve these iconic animals, the population continues to dwindle, posing grave challenges for struggling pony owners.
The polo pony, a diminutive yet robust breed, holds special significance as the backbone of the modern sport of polo, originating in Manipur. Ironically, the very ponies that are a source of pride for the locals are inching towards extinction, with an annual decline of at least eight ponies, according to the livestock census data.
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