Manipur Governor Releases ₹29.99 Lakh for Protection of Endangered Manipuri Ponies
Imphal, November —
In a significant step toward conserving Manipur’s iconic and endangered pony breed, Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla on Thursday released financial incentives amounting to ₹29,99,200 through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) to pony owners across the state.
According to a communiqué issued by the Raj Bhavan, the incentive covers 1,150 ponies aged above six months, belonging to 86 pony owners and clubs, under the State Plan fund. This disbursement marks the first incentive release in three years, offering much-needed support to owners for feeding and maintaining their ponies during lean seasons.
Senior officials, including the Chief Secretary, Secretary and Director of the Veterinary & Animal Husbandry Department, were present during the event.
The Governor’s initiative aligns with ongoing efforts to protect the Manipuri Pony, also known as the Meitei Sagol, which was officially declared an endangered breed in 2013. Despite its deep cultural and historical significance, the pony population has seen a steep decline—from 1,898 in 2003 to just 1,089 in 2019, according to government data.
Experts point to habitat loss, shrinking grazing lands, rapid urbanization, and lack of dedicated care as major factors behind the decline. The Manipuri pony holds a unique place in the state’s heritage, as it is central to Sagol Kangjei, the traditional form of polo considered the original version of the modern global sport. British officers are known to have adapted the local game to develop the modern rules of polo.
To strengthen conservation measures, the Manipur government has also allocated 30 acres of grassy fields at Lamphelpat, Imphal West, providing a protected zone where ponies can roam and graze freely.
The latest financial incentive is expected to boost ongoing preservation efforts and encourage pony owners to continue caring for the rare breed, which remains a symbol of Manipur’s cultural pride and sporting legacy.
