Imphal, Oct. 24 -- The Noney district administration in Manipur has imposed a district-wide ban on hunting, capturing, killing and selling Amur falcons, locally known as "Akhuaipuina", as the migratory birds arrive in the region for their annual winter stay.

In a prohibitory order issued on October 24, the District Magistrate directed residents to hand over their airguns to village authorities by November 10. The order also allows residents to retain the weapons until the birds leave the region, according to the directive.

The action followed a request from the Divisional Forest Officer, who raised concerns over illegal hunting that threatens the protected migratory species. Amur falcons are listed under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Prot...