The inaugural function of Sanrakshan Kshamata Mahotsav SAKSHAM 2026 was held at Manipur College in Imphal, marking the launch of a fortnight-long campaign themed Conserve Oil and Gas, Go Green. The programme is observed from February one to 15 and is organised by public sector oil and gas companies operating in Manipur under the aegis of the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, Government of India. The event aimed to mobilise communities and institutions across the state to adopt measures that reduce consumption and enhance energy efficiency.

K. Bono Singh, Director of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution in the Government of Manipur, inaugurated the programme and underlined the high costs involved in the exploration and extraction of natural resources, urging increased public awareness on the judicious and responsible use of limited reserves. He highlighted global trends in which developed countries are increasingly shifting to renewable energy sources such as wind and solar power and promoting electric vehicles to lower dependence on non renewable fuels. The remarks sought to frame conservation as both an economic and environmental priority.

Singh warned that global oil and gas reserves may last only 50–70 years while coal reserves may last 70–100 years, a projection that underlined the urgency of responsible consumption and sustained conservation efforts. He noted that India is currently the third largest consumer of oil and gas after the United States and China and could become the largest within the next 20–30 years if current trends continue. With domestic crude production insufficient to meet demand, the country relies heavily on imports and incurs significant expenditure, a factor cited as a primary reason for the nationwide observance of SAKSHAM Fortnight.

The function was presided over by Aribam Devadash Sharma, Principal of Manipur College, with Rajkumar Mohen Singh and Haobam Bobo Singh among the guests. Students, teachers and representatives of public sector oil and gas companies took a collective pledge to conserve oil and gas for a sustainable future. The campaign will continue to focus on awareness, behavioural change and community participation.