WOKHA, OCTOBER 15 (MExN): The Green Foundation Wokha today expressed concern over the ongoing tussle between the Amur Falcon Roosting Area Union (AFRAU) Pangti and the state government, which culminated in the AFRAU threatening to stop protecting the Amur Falcons in its area if their demands are not met.
A press note from the foundation appealed both parties to settle any issue without compromising the conservation efforts of Amur Falcon.
“The successful conservation of Amur Falcons has been made possible due to concerted efforts of many individuals, groups, villagers and the state government. Hence, any attempt from any corner to undo the protection efforts for whatever reasons shall be costly for both the birds and the people of the state,” it cautioned.
Pointing out that the Amur Falcons forage or roost at numerous locations across North East India, it said that conservation efforts require collective participation from all citizens of these regions.
It noted that Pangti village and its surrounding areas have done a commendable job not just in protecting the birds but also in sacrificing their lands for the Doyang Hydro project.
“Hence, it is also incumbent upon the state government and NEEPCO to provide basic amenities like good roads, electricity or water supply to the region. Earlier, before the construction of the Chubi bridge, people had to travel by ferryboat for many years as all roads connecting the villages were submerged. Such is the price that community around the hydro project has paid for the sake of economic development of the state,” the foundation said.
It informed that recently there has been pressure to conserve the Amur Falcon roosting area from shifting cultivation. “And it is important that these areas remain free from human interference for sustainable conservation of the birds. However, as these lands are agricultural lands, alternative livelihood and occupations have to be provided in order to protect the forest,” it said.
The foundation therefore advised the government to examine these concerns and initiate appropriate policy measures.
Further, it stressed on the need to note that conservation initiatives improve the welfare of the communities concerned.
“It is like taking care of one’s health or saving money. Amur Falcon conservation is one such initiative that has put the state and the region in the international spotlight. And it is also because of these success stories that more tourists are visiting the state, which improves the welfare of the state and her people. Hence, any attempt to shy away tourist or potential investors will only harm the local community,” it said.
The Green Foundation Wokha reminded that the Amur Falcon is a protected species under the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS). India, being a signatory of the CMS since 1983, is obligated to protect the birds from all sorts of hunting, trapping or killings of the birds.
It therefore urged the state government and the Forest Department to protect the birds under any circumstance during their brief stay in the state. The foundation also appealed to all citizens across the state to “join hands and provide a safe passage to the winged guest of our state.”
