KOHIMA, OCTOBER 4 (MExN): Nagaland Governor, PB Acharya, today in a message on World Animal Day, called for “advocacy, education, unity, involvement, and the raising of awareness for all of the animal issues that exist throughout the world.”
A press note from the Governor pointed out that the objective of World Animal Day is to celebrate animal life in all its forms, celebrate humankind’s relationship with the animal kingdom, acknowledge the diverse roles that animals play in our lives – from being our companions, supporting and helping us, to bringing a sense of wonder into our lives, and acknowledge and be thankful for the way in which animals enrich our lives.
“Though our state Nagaland is blessed with rich habitats for animal kingdom, every day our natural resources are being misused, our forests are being destroyed randomly, and habitats are being fragmented for roadways, illegal wildlife trade and poaching are wiping out entire populations of animals and birds,” the Governor lamented.
He further pointed out that the Blyth's Tragopan, the state bird, is hardly seen in the wild anymore and is on the verge of extinction. The Mithun which is a State animal is also seen only in a few breeding places.
The Governor stated that through increased awareness and education and the concerted efforts of all, “we can create a world where animals are always recognised as sentient beings and full regard is paid to their welfare.” “It’s our responsibility to help protect them so that their future generations can grow and thrive, and, in turn, our future generations can be blessed with the joy of sharing their lives with them too,” he added.
“Disturbing nature is inviting national calamity like floods, landslide, change of river course, erosion, change of climate etc. Let us live & let live our birds, animals for our happiness & safe life,” the Governor stated.
He further appealed to all stake holders, the government, NGOs, village councils, student bodies, civil societies etc. to come together to preserve the birds and animal and its natural habitat from extinction.
