The chief minister termed Loktak Lake as the "soul of Manipur" and "Cradle of our civilisation" and said that the lake plays a vital role in the ecological and economical security of the region.

"Loktak Lake, a life giver, is sustaining the livelihood of thousands of people in the state," Biren said, adding that "conserving the lake effectively is one of the priorities of our government and a long cherished dream of mine".

Calling for collective efforts in the statement, the chief minister said that without the support of the public any preservation and conservation efforts may end as a "futile exercise".

"I'm glad that the Loktak Development Authority is moving forward with community participation and sustainable development as guiding principles," the chief minister said. 

The CM lauded the LDA for organising a one-day workshop on "Conservation and Wise Use of Loktak and Associated Lakes. He expressed the hope that the workshop would enhance awareness about the cinservation efforts of the lake.

"This Loktak Day, I called upon the people of the state to pledge their support towards the conservation of the Lake. I say this with a strong sense of hope and optimism that with our collective efforts, we will succeed in saving Lokta 'Ima'," Biren added.