RH lauds Assam, Nagaland govts for joint eviction drive

Rengma Hoho (RH) has expressed appreciation to the governments of Assam and Nagaland for the “successful joint eviction drive” that was recently carried out in the Rengma Reserved Forest.
In a press release, RH president Er. Tesinlo Semy and media secretary Anilo Rengma described the joint eviction drive as “historic initiative” and said the drive reclaimed over 3,600 acres of encroached land, followed by an additional 64 acres in the second phase.
The hoho stated that the joint effort of both the states was a significant step toward protecting the ecological integrity and cultural heritage of the Rengma people, after whom the forest was named. RH pointed out that Rengma and Nambor Reserved Forests were among the border region’s last remaining rainforests, serving as crucial ecological lifelines.
It asserted that rejuvenation of the two reserved forests would support local rainfall patterns, maintain soil fertility, replenish groundwater, and stabilize river systems vital for agriculture, drinking water, and the broader survival of both humans and wildlife. “Restoring these forests will also preserve the region’s biodiversity and help maintain a balanced ecosystem,” RH stated. The hoho cautioned that the existing ecosystem risked collapse without urgent protection and active forest restoration.
In the next 20-30 years, RH said the unchecked degradation could lead to desertification, severe droughts, and ecological disasters. The hoho further cautioned that consequences would include soil erosion, depleted groundwater, loss of pollinators, and diminishing medicinal and food resources adversely affecting agriculture, livelihoods, and public health across communities.
It also warned that deforestation could intensify climate extremes, disrupt local weather patterns, and increase natural disasters. “Forest protection is not just a conservation issue but a vital step for the survival and stability of all life in the region,” the hoho maintained. Therefore, RH has urged both the governments to promptly implement a time-bound and comprehensive afforestation programme across the reclaimed areas.
The hoho stated that the process should actively involve local tribal communities, acknowledging the Rengma tribe’s historical coexistence with Naga tribes like the Sumi and Lotha, alongside other indigenous groups of Assam, within the Rengma Reserved Forest.
Stressing the importance of active participation of all stakeholders for the success of this effort, RH stated that joint involvement of Rengma, Western Sumi, and Lotha Hoho would reflect the collective wisdom of the Naga tribes and their long-standing tradition of peaceful coexistence.
“Entrusting custodianship of the initiative to these tribes will ensure coordinated, harmonious efforts
benefiting not just one community, but fostering unity and sustainable restoration for all who have traditionally inhabited the region,” RH emphasised.
The hoho also called for protection of other rainforest reserves in Rengma Hills such as Nambor, Kaliani, Diphu, Diagrung, Doldoli, and Lumding to ensure long term climate resilience and biodiversity.
Meanwhile, RH urged both the governments to respect the traditional and indigenous rights of the Rengma people in all future decisions, ensuring transparency and participation. The hoho expressed opposition to the resettlement of reclaimed areas by any community, whether tribal or non-tribal.