Analysis of in-situ biodiversity conservation and ecosystem management in Twenty-three selected Sacred Groves of Manipur within Indo-Burma Biodiversity Hotspot : Bio-legal aspects

Debkumari Bachaspatimayum, Brajakishor Singh Chingakham, Deshorjit Singh Ningombam, Indrajeet Singh Ningthoujam, Ratnabali Kongbrailatpam

In Manipur, Sacred Groves (SGs), known as “Umang Lai," which literally means ‘forest deities’, are worshipped in forest or thick vegetation areas. A total of 365 SGs have been officially reported in Manipur, a biodiversity hotspot of India. The concept of SG is founded on the traditional religious belief systems which aid in the sustainable and restrictive utilization of resources within it. Proper documentation of SGs of North-East India and limited study on them have propelled this study. A total of 23 SGs were selected to understand their role in in-situ biodiversity conservation, ecosystem management and relevant legal frameworks. These SGs were chosen from 5 districts of Manipur viz., Bishnupur, Imphal East, Imphal West, Kakching and Thoubal. Documentation of the selected sites, related cultural and social aspects and random inventorization of native plants growing in those selective sites were conducted. The study revealed that SGs are sites of rich biodiversity conservation, effective carbon sequestration and provide supportive ecosystem services to the human settlement around. Considering the ecological uniqueness and biological diversity, it is concluded that a holistic conservation strategy of SGs, particularly focused on traditional, scientific, and cultural methods is imperative. These groves can be viewed as micro-scale climate change mitigation models which may be replicated for wider impact. Further, in view of the SGs present and futuristic role, enactment of a specific law and active involvement of the community for the protection and management of SGs is the need of the hour.