Mima village welcome gate inaugurated

The inauguration of the Mima Village Welcome Gate was held on February 23 at Mima village. The gate was constructed as an Entry Point Activity under the Forest and Biodiversity Management in the Himalaya (Nagaland) Project (FBMP), Kohima Forest Division, co-financed by the Federal Republic of Germany through KfW.
According to a press release from Mima Village Council, the gate was jointly inaugurated by Chief Conservator of Forests (D&P) and Project Director, FBMP, Sidramappa M. Chalkapure, and Senior Project Manager, Natural Resources, Environment & Climate, Friederike Lambrecht, in the presence of Chief Technical advisor, Nand Kishor Agrawal, and Divisional Forest Officer Kohima, Dr. Sevono Seletsu. The dedicatory prayer was offered by Visedelie Shunyü.
Speaking as guest of honour, Chalkapure commended Mima for being a progressive village known for its success in government schemes, farming, and honey collection. He said the project’s core mission was holistic forest management, including protection of plant and animal species. He added that beyond conservation, the project seeks to improve local livelihoods through youth training, support for traditional farming, and enhancement of honey collection. He emphasized that protecting forests also secures water sources and traditional agricultural practices, leading to better income and quality of life.
Special guest Lambrecht expressed happiness that the village embraced the project, noting its importance for conservation. Observing Mima’s ecotourism potential, she encouraged the community to utilize the new gate as an entry point for future activities and to actively participate in conservation and livelihood ventures.
Earlier, Community Conserved Area chairman, Peteneilhou Tepa, highlighted the cultural significance of the Naga traditional gate, symbolizing identity and heritage. He expressed gratitude to the project for the successful construction. Mima Village Council Chairman, Kamo Leno, delivered the welcome address, while Mima Women Society presented a special number.