D Rajiv Shankar IFS
Assistant Conservator of Forests, Wokha Forest Division
For centuries, human activity has centred on the belief that nature exists solely for our benefit—a concept known as anthropocentrism. This perspective has led to the exploitation of natural resources, pushing many species toward extinction and contributing to environmental crises like climate change. In a world increasingly dominated by human activity, the delicate balance of our planet’s ecosystems is at risk. Wildlife plays a crucial role in maintaining this balance, serving as a linchpin for the health of forests, wetlands, grasslands, and oceans. As species disappear, the systems that support life on Earth begin to unravel. Fortunately, across India, the tide is gradually turning towards ecocentrism, where humans view themselves as part of the broader ecosystem. A rising wave of conservation success stories across our country is proving that human-wildlife co-existence is not only possible but essential for the future of both people and nature.
Nagaland, which harbors rich biodiversity, is leading a quiet revolution in wildlife conservation, spearheaded by communities and traditional village councils, has emerged as a beacon of what human-wildlife co-existence can achieve.
One of the most remarkable achievements is the conservation of Amur Falcon. Once hunted by the thousands during their annual migration, these small raptors were on the brink of catastrophe. Thanks to a concerted effort by local communities, the government, and conservationists, the hunting of Amur Falcons has been eradicated. Villages like Pangti, Sungro and Asha, once known for hunting the birds, have now become their protectors. This shift not only saved the falcons but also created new opportunities for eco-tourism, providing sustainable income for local communities.
With 148 community reserves, Nagaland also boasts the highest number of such reserves in India, where hunting and logging have been voluntarily banned. These reserves, owned and managed by village councils, protect a wide range of wildlife, including threatened species like the Hoolock Gibbon and the Clouded Leopard. Nagaland Zoological Park through its conservation breeding programmes on Blyth’s Tragopan and Asian Brown Tortoise is undertaking commendable efforts to ensure that endangered species are not lost to extinction. The state has showcased the power of local communities working in tandem with Forest Department, and Wildlife experts to create a healthier environment for all.
Nagaland’s conservation model is a shining example of ecocentrism in action. Here, traditional knowledge and community governance have embraced the idea that protecting wildlife benefits the entire ecosystem, including humans. Village councils, often the cornerstone of local governance, have voluntarily imposed hunting bans in many areas, recognizing that wildlife conservation enriches both the environment and local livelihoods.
The success of wildlife conservation initiatives in Nagaland highlights a crucial point: protecting wildlife is not an obstacle to development but rather a pathway to sustainable growth. When wildlife thrives, ecosystems function better, and communities can reap the benefits through eco-tourism, sustainable agriculture, and forest products.
In many villages, former hunters have now become forest guardians, serving as guides for birdwatchers and tourists, ensuring their knowledge of the land and wildlife is preserved and passed down through generations. This shift provides new income streams while strengthening the bond between humans and nature.
The role of technology in wildlife conservation cannot be overstated. From drones monitoring movement to wildlife to satellite tracking of migratory birds like the Amur Falcon, technology is transforming how we protect and coexist with wildlife. Technological innovations, and artificial intelligence (AI) for tracking endangered species offer new ways to ensure their survival while minimizing human impact. These would empower Nagaland’s local communities to take greater control of conservation efforts, ensuring that data-driven decisions support long-term sustainability.
It is time to reflect on the success stories in Nagaland and reimagine the future of wildlife conservationas we approach National Wildlife Week, celebrated annually in India from 2nd October to 8th October. Now, more than ever, it is crucial for all citizens to engage in and support conservation efforts.Let us celebrate this Wildlife Week by recommitting ourselves to safeguarding the natural worldto ensure that success in Wildlife conservation is a norm rather than an exception in Nagaland and beyond.
