Newmai News Network
Shillong | October 1
Meghalaya Chief Minister, Conrad Sangma has stated that "as citizens, we have a responsibility to keep balance while moving forward with changing times".
Speaking during an event where he unveiled the Foundation Stone for State Zoo at Umtrew, Ri Bhoi, Conrad said, “Change is imperative and while keeping up with the changing world there should be a balance between economy and ecology.”
The foundation stone was held during the Valedictory Function of Wildlife Week 2019 on Tuesday.
“This Zoo will be a place where the people especially the children will get a chance to see the wildlife of the State while learning to take care and respect these animals,” said the Chief Minister while pointing out that Meghalaya is a State richly blessed with diversity in flora and fauna.
Conrad Sangma then said that the Zoo should not only be a place of entertainment but a centre of learning, respecting, protecting, rescue and conservation of wildlife. “It is sad to see that people still go hunting and I hope this zoo will change the mindset of the people that the forests also belong to the animals who are a part of the Biodiversity,” he added.
Earlier, during his address the State’s Minister of Forests & Environment, Lakhmen Rymbui informed that land of 72 hectares for the State Zoo was acquired in 2001 and the Central Zoo Authority has given its approval for the State Zoo which will have eight enclosures.
He also expressed his hope that the Zoo will be completed by January, 2022.
The Chief Minister and the dignitaries also distributed prizes to the winners of different competitions that were held as a part of the Wildlife Week. People who have contributed towards conservation and protection of wildlife were also felicitated during the occasion.
