: Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla on Thursday released financial incentives to pony owners for conserving the pony population.

“A total incentive amount of Rs 29,99,200 was disbursed for 1,150 ponies above six months of age, belonging to 86 pony owners and clubs, under the State Plan fund,” a Raj Bhavan communiqué stated.

The incentive is aimed at helping Manipuri pony owners supplement the feeding of their animals during the lean season.

The Governor initiated these measures after the Government of Manipur declared the Manipuri Pony (also known as Meitei Sagol) an endangered breed in 2013.

Experts regard the Manipuri pony as the original polo pony, noting that British officers adapted the local game played in Manipur and Assam to develop modern polo—now played worldwide.

Today, th

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