Yaral Pat, a major wetland in Imphal East district of Manipur, is witnessing a sharp rise in migratory bird arrivals after scientific restoration and community-led management.

What has changed at Yaral Pat?

• Yaral Pat has been developed by the Manipur State Environment and Climate Change Department, with active support from local communities.
• Since its restoration, the wetland has been attracting large numbers of migratory waterfowls over the past five years.
• This revival highlights how wetland restoration improves biodiversity and ecosystem health.

Migratory birds recorded

• Thousands of migratory birds arrive in Manipur every winter from Siberia, China, Mongolia and other parts of Asia.
• At Yaral Pat, commonly spotted species include:
  • Lesser whistling duck (Dendrocygna javanica), locally called Tingi
    • Listed as Least Concern but is protected under Schedule II of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972
  • Gadwall (Anas strepera), known locally as Thoidingnum
  • Coots and redshank (Tringa erythropus)
• Gadwalls, which breed in northern Europe, Asia and North America, now form one of the largest migratory groups visiting Manipur’s wetlands.

• The presence of migratory birds is a strong indicator of a healthy wetland ecosystem, as birds respond quickly to changes in water quality, food availability and habitat safety.

Bird census findings

• Bird census conducted since 2021 shows a clear ecological improvement:
  • 2021: About 1,700 birds from 17 species
  • 2026: Around 3,000 birds from 39 species
• The rise in both population and species diversity reflects better water quality and habitat conditions.

Role of local communities

• Local residents and cooperative societies have played a crucial role in protecting the wetland.
• Community participation has helped prevent disturbance and ensure sustainable use, proving that people-centric conservation works.

One-line wrap

Yaral Pat’s revival shows that wetland restoration, backed by community participation, can rapidly restore biodiversity and attract migratory birds.

Exam Hook – 

Q. Which of the following statements is/are correct?

1. Migratory waterbirds are reliable indicators of wetland ecosystem health.
2. Lesser whistling duck is protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.
3. Increase in bird species diversity indicates improvement in wetland ecological conditions.

Answer:
(a) 1 and 3 only
(b) 1 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

Source