It is a pleasure to fly kites annually during the Sankranti festival, which symbolizes traditional sports. Previously, yarn (Manja) was used to fly kites as this did not hurt anyone. But now it is replaced with the dangerous China Manja that is made of glass flour and dangerous chemicals. Despite the ban on China Manja, the market is getting a lot of flak, this is due to a majority of the people are leaning towards it as they can cut the other kites flying with yarn Manja. During flying the kites, this Manja is getting stuck in the electric wires and trees which in turn making the birds get trapped and killed.
Forest Department suggested that, for the Sankranti festival, along with kites let us even allow birds to fly in the sky. Everyone should be aware of the serious consequences occurring with the use of China Manja. Higher officials from the forest department, animal lovers and people from voluntary organizations had a meeting in Aranya Bhavan and discussed the use of China Manja and its consequences. They said glass-coated nylon and synthetic threads are harming the birds, humans and even the environment.
Chief forest protection officer, R Shoba, revealed that according to the orders of the National Green Tribunal, the use of China Manja should be completely banned in the state. People who sell, store or transport Chinese Manja are sentenced to 5 years of jail with a fine of Rs. 1 lakh. The officer even warned if anyone harms the birds and humans by using this Manja are sentenced to 3 – 7years of jail and Rs. 10000 fine. During this festive season, five special teams are appointed for the surveillance. If you find anyone selling the Chinese Manja, you can report to the toll-free numbers 040-23231440; 18004255364.