Chizokho Vero
Kohima | April 16
In what can be termed as playing the role of ambassador for the environment, a nascent Kohima based NGO “Hillknights” today conveyed a clear and loud message to the people of Nagaland to secure environmental stability and sustainable ecological balance.
Initiating this 12 day long venture entitled “Environmental Awareness Campaign ”through motor cycle tour in association with the state’s department of forest, ecology, environment and wildlife, the team is all set to cover 1700 km over all 11 districts where it will propagate the message on the need ensure harmonious relationship with nature.
Nagaland falls under one of the 25 hot spots recognized across the world. The potential of Nagaland bio-diversity contributing to the state’s economic is immense, source said.
KR Lyngdoh, IFS, Chief Conservator Forest (Bio- diversity) said that deforestation was the main factor for degradation of environment in the state.
He cautioned that unless the people control deforestation, it would destroy the vast resources available in the state. We have to think this issue with seriousness, he said.
Also expressing concern over the extensive exploitation of forest in the state, he said “We should show our concern for forest conservation and its development.”
He also stated that it is the high time that our people understand the problem of global warming. Effort should also be make to figure the environment issue appropriately in the curriculum of schools and colleges, Lyngdoh added.
Brig. Brij Pal Singh, Deputy IGAR (N) said that Nagaland has been blessed with a rich forest cover, fauna and flora however the people must realize to conserve the same into order to maintain a healthy ecological balance. He assured that the Assam Rifles will always be there to lend helping hand for such a noble cause and wished the team all success in their campaign.
Chief Conservator Forest (HQ) J.S. Wallia, IFS said that Hillknights is the first NGOs to have come forward to create environment awareness and conservation of forest in the state. The organization publicity secretary Kethozelie Liezietsu said that the Hillknights comprises of 22 members hailing from different background likes; teachers, entrepreneurs, government servants, students with its motto “To protect and serve mankind.”
The campaign was jointly flagged off here today by Brig. Brij Pal Singh, Deputy IGAR (N) and Dr. CL Goel, Principal Chief Conservator of Forest.
Kohima Deputy Commissioner R. Ramakrishnan, IAS, Sony My Miss India Akuonuo Khezhie were also present on the occasion.
Being held under the theme “Save our Planet,” in commemoration with the year of farmers, the tour will culminate on April 27.
