Forest Minister launches department website
Morung Express News
Kohima | May 4
The Nagaland State Forest Department today said that despite efforts to perform well, the department faces multiple challenges with maximum forests area owned by village communities and private owners.
This was stated by Principal Chief Conservator of Forest (PCCF) & Head of Forest Force (HoFF), I Panger Jamir during the launch of the department’s website in Kohima on May 4. The site was launched by Minister for Forest Environment and Climate Change, CM Chang.
The website (nagalandforest.in) was launched during a Senior Forest Officers’ conference with Minister at the PCCF Office Conference Hall, Kohima.
Citing the Forest Survey of India report where the total forest area in Nagaland has been reduced drastically (a net decrease in 450 sq.km of forest cover), the PCCF expressed that the fault is not the department’s since the activities meted out are beyond its control. The survey also attributes the decrease to shifting cultivation and developmental activities.
Despite the rich biodiversity of Nagaland, Jamir stated that the department has not been able to document the medicinal plants used by local practitioners. Jamir also stated that some species are being smuggled out of Nagaland while some species such as Ginseng are almost reaching extinction. Therefore, the PCCF urged for conservation measures of such species.
Minister CM Chang was of the view the department should work hard to increase the revenue of the department. Citing neighbouring state of Assam, Chang said, “Our revenue is very poor. Assam has one of the highest revenue and without the support of the Centre they can run the State.” He also directed the department to start the JICA project without delay.
Dr. Sapu Changkija, Department of Genetics and Plant breeding, SASRD gave a brief presentation on the geography of Nagaland, its forest types & vegetations, and floristic diversity. “Geographically, we have a unique situation with species which are not found elsewhere in the world. And within the uniqueness, the presentation of forest system is unique,” said Dr. Changkija.
OSD Atsase Thongtsar informed officers that the Chief Minister has directed them to submit a brief report on the success stories of the department within two months. With many organisations and agencies set to commemorate the World Environment Day, Thongtsar stated that the Forest Department should take a step further. He also called for steps to improve revenue generation.
The newly launched website meanwhile provides information on the status of forest in Nagaland, wildlife, existing rules and policies of the State, and the departmental activities.
Two books were also released namely ‘Flora of Nagaland’ authored by Sapu Changkija and P.B Gurung, and ‘Gu Si Khang Le –The Delightful Forest of Tuensang’ authored by Forest Guards S. Tiakaba Chang and N Imtisangba Chang.
