The Government of Manipur has recently initiated efforts to preserve the Manipuri Pony, also known as Meitei Sagol, in collaboration with various organizations and associations.
Joint Meeting and Resolutions
A joint meeting involving the Manipur Horse Riding and Polo Association, Manipur Equestrian Association, Manipuri Pony Society, and state veterinary and animal husbandry department officials took place in Imphal on May 16. The meeting resulted in several resolutions, including:
- Immediate response to herd the ponies.
- Demarcation of an area for temporary accommodation of the animals.
- Constitution of a task force.
- Holding consultations.
- Preparation of a budget for pony management.
- Surveying grazing grounds and permanent habitats.
- Ownership responsibilities, maintenance, and care.
- Finalization of stud books for pony registration.
- Formalization of pony census through stakeholders.
Manipuri Pony Conservation and Development Policy (MPCDP)
The MPCDP, formulated in 2016, aims to conserve the Manipuri Pony, one of India’s seven recognized horse and pony breeds. Other recognized breeds include the Marwari Horse, Kathiawari Horse, Zanskari Pony, Spiti Pony, Bhutia Pony, and Kachhi-Sindhi Horse.
Decline in Population and Contributing Factors
The population of Manipuri Ponies has significantly declined over the years. Factors contributing to this decline include:
- Shrinkage of wetlands due to urbanization and encroachment.
- Lack of polo grounds in rural Manipur.
- Restrictions on pony usage.
- Diseases.
- Exodus of ponies to neighboring states and countries.
Recognition and Characteristics
The Manipur government declared the Manipuri Pony as an Endangered Breed in 2013. Despite being a small breed, Manipuri Ponies are known for their stamina, agility, intelligence, speed, and adaptability to harsh conditions. They are considered the original polo pony and play a significant role in Manipuri culture.
Government Initiatives
Chief Minister N Biren Singh announced measures to protect the Manipuri Pony, including providing a new home at a 30-acre grassy field in Lamphelpat, Imphal West. The government emphasizes the importance of preserving this breed, which is deeply intertwined with Manipur’s history and culture.
Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs):
- When did the joint meeting to discuss Manipuri Pony conservation take place?
- A) May 16, 2016
- B) May 16, 2019
- C) May 16, 2022
- D) May 16, 2024
- Answer: D) May 16, 2024
- Which policy was formulated in 2016 to conserve the Manipuri Pony?
- A) Manipuri Pony Preservation Act
- B) Manipuri Pony Conservation and Development Policy (MPCDP)
- C) Manipuri Equine Protection Scheme
- D) Manipur Equestrian Conservation Initiative
- Answer: B) Manipuri Pony Conservation and Development Policy (MPCDP)
- Which of the following is NOT a contributing factor to the decline in the population of Manipuri Ponies?
- A) Urbanization and encroachment
- B) Lack of polo grounds in rural Manipur
- C) Uncontrolled breeding leading to overpopulation
- D) Diseases
- Answer: C) Uncontrolled breeding leading to overpopulation
- When was the Manipuri Pony declared as an Endangered Breed by the Manipur government?
- A) 2008
- B) 2010
- C) 2013
- D) 2015
- Answer: C) 2013
- What is the size range of Manipuri Ponies?
- A) 14 to 16 Hands
- B) 12 to 14 Hands
- C) 10 to 12 Hands
- D) 11 to 13 Hands
- Answer: D) 11 to 13 Hands