By Dr. L. Romen Meitei, Geospatial Analyst | LSBio
Manipur, nestled in the eastern Himalayan biodiversity hotspot, is undergoing an ecological transformation that is both rapid and unsettling. Between 2001 and 2023, forest loss across the state has surged, particularly in its hill districts, revealing the complex interplay of environmental degradation, climate change, and sociopolitical conflict. Once carpeted with lush green forests, regions such as Tamenglong, Churachandpur, Ukhrul, and Tengnoupal are now hotspots of deforestation, each witnessing annual losses exceeding 4,000 to 5,000 hectares during peak years. These areas, known for their rugged terrain and rich biodiversity, are particularly susceptible to pressures from shifting cultivation, unregulated logging, and expanding infrastructure (Figure 1). Satellite data from the Global Forest Change dataset shows that deforestation in Manipur accelerated significantly after 2010, with major peaks occurring between 2015 and 2017. Although some districts saw a decline in forest...