A Staff Reporter
Dimapur, November 18
In a welcoming gesture, a total of 13 individuals and groups from diverse backgrounds have come forward to adopt animals and birds at the Nagaland Zoological Park (NZP). This was announced at the launching of ‘Animal on the cloud,’ an awareness and adoption campaign held in the NZP, Rangapahar, on November 18. Official website was also launched simultaneously.
‘Animal on the cloud’ is a mission undertaken by the Wildlife Wing of the State Forest Department in association with non-governmental organizations namely Sharing Ideas for Better Future, Finger Print, and Castle Group.
Launching the campaign, State Forest minister, Dr. Nicky Kire, remarked that there is no reason why we can’t conserve other animals when we have the determination. He said this in reference to the success story of conserving Amur Falcon in Pangting area in Wokha district. Also stressing on the importance of conserving animals particularly in the zoo, Dr. Kire said everyone could start adoption of animals in a miniscule manner by contributing part of their earning.
In clarifying apprehension over ‘misuse’ of fund, Dr. Kire also assured that adoption of animal would be done in right manner adding that records should be transparent in all its dealings. In the event of any such mismanagement, Dr. Kire said the department would be answerable to the public.
He has further assured to motivate all 60 assembly legislators to adopt one particular animal in the zoo.
Principal Chief Conservator of Forest (PCCF), M Lokeswara Rao, was forthcoming in his decision to sponsor Rs 10,000 annually towards the adoption measures till his death. Describing adoption campaign as his ‘dream project,’ M Lokeswara Rao assured to contribute Rs 10,000 annually towards the campaign even long after his retirement until his death.
Principal Secretary, NN Zhasa has termed as right attitude for venturing into conserving the animals. Pointing out that northeast region ranked 25th in bio-geographical hot spot in the world, he stressed on the need to conserve the depleting fauna, flora and mirco-organism. NN Zhasa also highlighted on the ongoing project works and other future plans.
Representative from Finger Print, Hongba Phom, spoke on the need to conserve eco-system for our survival. Stating that eco-system has benefitted human being in so many ways, he urged upon the gathering to seriously ponder on the issue and initiate step towards conserving the eco-system. He further encouraged the members to turn challenges into opportunities and contribute for the well being of all.
Chief of Wildlife Warden, SP Tripathi, delivered short speech, while Officer In-Charge NZP, Obed Bohavi Swu spoke on NZP. Campaign ambassador of ‘Animal on the cloud,’ Tali Angh presented special number.
Earlier, Dr. Wati Aier, Principal of Oriental Theological Seminary, said the invocation, while the Director of NZP Sentichuba Aier delivered the vote of thanks.
