Wokha, March 30 (MExN): Dr. T M Lotha, Adviser, Treasuries & Accounts, Relief and Rehabilitation, Government of Nagaland distributed cash relief to the affected farmers whose agricultural fields and properties were damaged by wild elephants at New Wokha Village on March 30 in the presence of district administration, Police, forests officials and NGOs.
A press note stated that tpeaking at the brief programme hosted by the Tiyi Wildlife Conservation & Animal-Human Conflict Control Society at New Wokha Village, Dr. TM Lotha stated that the government had taken prompt action upon learning of the destruction caused by the wild elephants at New Wokha Village, and as the Local MLA, he himself had earlier taken a spot visit to the affected areas on September 24, 2015 along with district administration and forest officials. He appreciated A Robin Lotha, the Deputy Commissioner Wokha for taking proactive role in assisting the villagers during the conflict and assessing the damage and reporting to the government for necessary compensation. He further stated that, since it’s a human-animal conflict, the department of forest and wildlife is the right department to provide relief and rehabilitation; but as contingency relief, the government has sanctioned some money under his department despite budget constraints, keeping in mind the gravity of the situation.
He also appreciated Khyolamo Humtsoe, Chairman, New Wokha Village and his team for coordinating with the government officials during the entire period of human elephant conflict, an effort of which has prevented human casualties. He further encouraged the villagers to venture into new and innovative farming practices for sustainable livelihood and economic prosperity, stating that it is time for the Nagas to venture into private sectors as employment in the public sector has reached a saturation point.
A Robin Lotha, Deputy Commissioner Wokha also spoke on the programme. The meeting was chaired by Khyolamo Humtsoe and Zujabemo Lotha delivered the welcome address. Yingao Murry spoke on behalf of the affected farmers and Zaremo Murry pronounced the vote of thanks.
