Dwindling of endangered Manipuri Pony to continue, says Official

IMPHAL — Manipur Horse Riding and Polo Association (MHRPA), Manipur Equestrian Association and Manipuri Pony Society in collaboration with other stakeholders have formed two committees to identify polo ground and pony reserve in each district of the state, apart from registering the Manipuri ponies and estimating the cost for conservation.

Prof Ch Priyoranjan of Manipuri Pony Society disclosed this while addressing the media persons at Manipuri pony breeding farm in Lamphelpat, Imphal on, Friday in the presence of MHRPA president H Deleep and technical committee chairman (MHRPA) Ningthongjam Bedajit.

Along with the Veterinary department, we have formed two committees, one to identify polo ground and pony reserves in each district and the other to take up registering of the ponies and estimating the cost for pony conservation, said the professor.

On the drop in the number of Manipur pony to just 1,089 as per the 2019 livestock census, he said, “Unless there is less demand for pony, this dwindling of Manipur pony will go on.” “So, the trick for the pony to survive is to create the supply at the natural habitat level. Then create the demand,” he suggested.

It may be mentioned that the Manipuri pony, though small breed of 11 to 13 hands, is known for its unique stamina, agility, intelligence, speed, manoeuvrability and great adaptability to harsh geo climatic conditions. It is also regarded as the original polo pony as the modern polo is derived from the traditional Sagol Kangjei of Manipur.