Morung Express News
Wokha /Kohima | October 5
With focus on the theme “Wildlife Conservation through Co-existence” the Wildlife Week 2024 was observed in the districts of Wokha and Kohima on October 5. The Wildlife Division Dimapur, in collaboration with Wokha Forest Division, Doyang Plantation Division, and Eco-Warriors, organized the celebration at the Community Hall, Forest Colony, Wokha.
In his address, Suman W M Sivachar, Divisional Forest Officer for Wokha Forest Division and Doyang Plantation Division, spoke about the complexities of human-animal interactions, particularly concerning elephants. He emphasized the need for humans to understand and em pathize with wildlife, noting that animals cannot express their struggles. Sivachar pointed out that wildlife represents a mere 4% of the overall biomass on Earth, in stark contrast to humans, who account for 34% while underscoring the urgent need for conservation efforts. He urged the gathering to consider the importance of elephants in local ecosystems, highlighting areas of conflict arising from habitat encroachment.
Tokaho Kinimi, Wildlife Warden of the Wildlife Division, Dimapur, addressed the gathering about the significance of the week-long celebration, which promotes awareness and participation in wildlife conservation activities across the country. He praised the impressive knowledge and creativity displayed by school students in recent competitions, emphasizing their vital role in the future of conservation.
Kinimi reiterated that wildlife is perishable and stressed the importance of co-existence between humans and wildlife. He remarked on Nagaland's rich biodiversity and called for a collective commitment to safeguarding the region's unique ecosystems.
Highlights of the celebration included a prize distribution for a painting competition, a documentary screening, and a quiz conducted by the Eco-Warriors, aiming at raising awareness about wildlife conservation.
At the state capital, the Nagaland State Biodiversity Board (NSBB), in partnership with Kohima Science College, Jotsoma (Autonomous), celebrated the National Wildlife Week 2024.
Supongnukshi, Chief Conservator of Forests (CCF) and Member Secretary of the NSBB, delivered an insightful talk on ‘Forestry & Wildlife in Nagaland.’ He addressed the challenges of wildlife conservation in the state, particularly the issue of man-animal conflict, and shared successful community participation examples, such as the Amur Falcon protection initiative in Pangti village.
The experts in the panel discussion included Supongnukshi, CCF & Member Secretary, NSBB; Dr Sevono Seletsu, Deputy Conservator of Forests (DCF), Kohima Division; and Luiluile Lungalang, Assistant Professor, Department of Zoology, Kohima Science College. The panel addressed various topics raised by participants, including the Forest Department's ban on air-guns, restoring traditional wildlife corridors, and initiating research in wildlife and forestry. The experts emphasized the importance of community awareness, education, and collaboration in conservation efforts.
The session also highlighted crucial steps for rescuing distressed wildlife, urging immediate reporting to local forest offices rather than taking independent action.
