Manipur Cabinet Approves Heibok Ching as Reserved Forest

Surveys of other mole hills in the valley will also begin to designate them as protected areas.

The Manipur Cabinet, held on Thursday, approved the declaration of Heibok Ching (Heibok Hill) in Imphal West district as a reserved forest under Section 4 of the Indian Forest Act, 1927. This decision aims to preserve the biodiversity and ecosystem of the area.

Addressing the media after the Cabinet meeting, Information and Public Relations (IPR) Minister Dr. Sapam Ranjan said, “Heibok Ching, located in Langthabal and regarded as a sacred site, has been officially declared a reserved forest. Along with this, all mole hills in the valley regions will undergo surveys and will be designated as either protected or reserved forests to maintain the ecological balance of the state.”

The minister further emphasized the importance of conservation efforts, noting that the valley’s mole hills have been subject to deforestation and excavation, which pose a threat to the environment. “The government is taking these steps to ensure the long-term protection of forests,” he added.

Heibok Ching was previously categorized as a revenue village. However, with its new status as a reserved forest, the government will amend the relevant Gazette Notification to reflect this change.

In addition the Cabinet also approved the Manipur Goods and Services Tax (GST) Amendment Ordinance, 2024. Minister Ranjan explained, “This amendment is mandatory for all states, following decisions taken at the GST Council meetings in July and September of this year.”

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