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Our Correspondent
Kohima, Dec. 11 (EMN): Wildlife Warden, Wildlife Division Dimapur, H Tokaho Kinimi, stressed on the need to give equal emphasis on conservation of the environment as much as the promotion of the rich cultural heritage of the Nagas.
Kinimi told Eastern Mirror how awareness on conservation of nature could be spread through mega events like the Hornbill Festival.
According to him, Hornbill Festival is a culmination of the tribes' cohesion while the bird is a representation of that. However, when it comes to habits, he reminded that people should improve their customs and traditions, which is more towards conservation of forest and surroundings.
"I think we should preserve so many things starting from sand, boulders, trees, etc. which are all related to the environment," Kinimi said, adding, "To give a chance to birds and animals should be our heritage".
Asserting that they are supposed to ensure that all animals are protected, he informed how different organisations classify birds and animals as vulnerable, critical or endangered.
The officer stated how hornbills are given the same level of protection, just like the rhino or tiger, and the punitive measures are the same under the Wild Life Act, 1972, which is a Central law applicable throughout the country.
Emphasising on the need to strive towards conservation to protect not only hornbill but every animal in existence, he suggested how the coming editions of the Hornbill Festival could provide a platform as a means to conserve more.
"You cannot conserve wildlife without conserving forests," Kinimi said, adding, "Once you are able to conserve forest, I think it would definitely help in overall control of climate change and other related issues."
Asserting that the state of Nagaland is a mega diversity hotspot, he reiterated the necessity of protecting the different species.
"I think this Hornbill Festival can give us an icon of preservation," he said, asking those educated to "think twice" when they visit such festivals.
Kinimi shared that the different settings under the Forest department can come together to convey vital messages of conserving environment and wildlife in the next Hornbill Festival.
He also expressed optimism to have visible achievement not only in one or two villages but the entire state with their plans and programmes.