England defeated Morocco by 16 -2 goals

Pothashang News Service

Imphal , November 24, 2017: England defeated Morocco by 16 -2 goals on the third day of 11th Manipur Polo International at Imphal Pologround (Mapal Kangjeibung) which is organised as a part of the Manipur Sangai Festival.

While the endangered original polo animal, Manipur Pony has been frequently seen along the streets and at garbage sites, Karam Shyam, minister of CAF and PD today said “Survival of Manipuri pony is necessary for the survival of Manipuri Polo”.

Karam Shyam was speaking as the chief guest of the international polo tournament. He said Polo in Manipur is not just a sport, but it is a way of life and an integral part of our culture. Expressing concern over the dwindling population of Manipuri Pony, he appealed to all citizens to help in conservation of the Manipuri Polo.

He appreciated the efforts of Manipur Horse Riding and Polo Association and the participating international polo teams for giving international attention towards the critically endangered Manipuri Pony. It is a great concern that the present population of Manipuri pony is around 600 and it is the duty of each and every citizen to take part in the conservation of pony. The Government will take up all measures to help in conservation of pony, he added

“Similar promises were made by the state leaders in the past polo events to take up measures for pony conservation, but the ponies are often seen chewing polythene and garbage along roadsides”, a polo lover from Imphal told Pothashang.

An exhibition match was also played between India-B and India-A. The Manipur team won the match by 13-2 goals.

The tournament is being organised by Manipur Horse Riding and Polo Association. Altogether 6 teams are participating in the tournament. India A will take on Argentina, tomorrow.