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Nagaland conservation forum calls for state policy to support community initiatives
KOHIMA — Facing the persistent challenge of balancing development with environmental protection, Nagaland’s community conservation movement celebrated a significant milestone on Tuesday. The Nagaland Community Conserved Areas’ Forum (NCCAF) marked its tenth anniversary in Khonoma village, highlighting a decade of grassroots efforts while simultaneously urging the state government for greater policy support.
NCCAF Advisor Amba Jamir emphasised the long history of community-based conservation practices within Naga villages, stating, “Even prior to the establishment of NCCAF, every village had their own ways of conservation.”
Calling for the community to honour their ancestors’ legacy, Jamir urged them to continue the time-tested methods of conservation passed down through generations, emphasising the importance of maintaining this traditional knowledge for future generations.
He further contextualised these local efforts within a global framework, stating that conservation efforts may have been done at the local level but it is contributing to the global agenda. “Having the conservation consciousness is a matter of pride and a sign of progress and advanced society”, he said, adding that “the real wealth of a community is air, water, grass, and land.”
Despite these community-led initiatives, Jamir highlighted a significant challenge: the absence of a state government policy specifically supporting community conserved areas. He called upon members to advocate for the creation of such a policy, “Because once the policy is in place, government management, planning and funding schemes can be streamlined.”
He also emphasised that in Nagaland, “conservation is done by commitment and not by regulation and that is the biggest message we can take to the world.” He noted that the challenge ahead is “how they prepare for next decades and set high visions to achieve.”
Mhiesizokho Zinyu, former president of Angami Public Organisation (APO) and political advisor to the minister of Horticulture and Women Resources Development, offered historical perspective, stating that Nagas were “experts in natural resources management”, as they took only what was required from nature. “However, there came a point of time when people started abusing and exploiting the Mother Nature,” he rued.
Over the years, the need for protecting natural resources and sustainably managing them has dawned on us and many Naga communities started conserved areas. Today, the community conserved areas are better organised with the formation of NCCAF, he observed.
He emphasised the collective responsibility to protect the state’s environment and resources, and called on the NCCAF to lead the effort and ensure a healthy planet for future generations.
The anniversary event also featured cultural performances by Khonoma Nature Conservancy and Tragopan Sanctuary, Mt. Pauna CCA Benreu, and addresses by Heirang Lungalang (Chairman NCCAF), Libanthung Lotha (Team leader NEPED), and Sanjay Sharma (regional team leader and senior programme manager, FES).