Imphal, Aug. 23 -- Environmentalists and wildlife lovers have raised concerns that three bear species-the Himalayan Black Bear, Sloth Bear, and Malayan Sun Bear-once abundant along the Indo-Myanmar border in Manipur, are now on the verge of extinction.

Rampant deforestation and indiscriminate hunting for meat, skin, gallbladder, and other body parts have pushed these species to the brink.

The warning came during a one-day wildlife awareness programme on "Bear Conservation" held at the community hall of the Maha Area Chiefs Association (MACA) in Panchai, Chandel district, on Friday. The event saw participation from 52 tribal chiefs representing villages across Chandel, which borders Myanmar to the south.

Organised by the Divisional Fore...