The 1st Satoi Connect Fest, a landmark initiative designed to strengthen the link between conservation and community participation, concluded successfully on March 28 at Satoi Town under the Zunheboto Forest Division.
Held under the theme “Community First, Conservation Always,” the three-day fest marked a significant step toward promoting ecotourism and sustainable livelihoods while safeguarding the biodiversity-rich Satoi Range.
The event brought together a diverse group of participants, including government officials, scientists, researchers, photographers, travel consultants, NGOs, environmentalists, and local youth. Representatives from the Zoological Survey of India, North East Space Application Centre, Wildlife Institute of India, Kohima Science College, and Wandering Minds College of Fine Arts were among the key scientific contributors. Conservation organisations such as Aaranyak, Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS), Turtle Survival Alliance (TSA), Highland Institute, North East Network (NEN), and YouthNet also took part. Nikon India conducted a specialised photography training workshop during the fest.
The inaugural programme was graced by IFS, CCF (D&P) and Member Secretary, Nagaland State Biodiversity Board, Sidrammapa M. Chalkapure who also released the Satoi Connect Booklet.
A major attraction of the fest was a full-day trekking expedition on March 27, during which participants covered a 5–6-hour trail from Tsutoho Village to Satoi Town and Thsuruhu Village, experiencing the landscape and biodiversity of the region firsthand.
One of the most significant highlights was the launch of the Community Social Responsibility (ComSR) initiative by IFS, Conservator of Forests (Northern Territorial Circle) T. Aochuba.
ComSR is a people-driven model that emphasises collective responsibility for social welfare, environmental conservation, and community infrastructure—promoting a participatory culture of “We Before Me.” Unlike corporate-led CSR, ComSR positions communities as the primary custodians of conservation and development. It also aligns with the government’s Sustainable Development Goals and ongoing community development programmes.
The closing ceremony was attended IFS, Addl. PCCF (Territorial) by Supongnukshi as Guest of Honour.
He presented the awards for the photography competition, including the 1st Living Lens Award, sponsored by the Nagaland State Biodiversity Board.
The fest saw enthusiastic involvement from all 10 villages under the Satoi Range, reflecting a strong sense of unity and shared commitment to conserving local biodiversity while exploring ecotourism as a sustainable livelihood.
Expressing gratitude, the Zunheboto Forest Division acknowledged the support of the Deputy Commissioner and Superintendent of Police, Zunheboto; ADC Satakha; EAC Satoi; community organisations; church bodies; student and youth groups; volunteers; and residents of Satoi Town, Satoi Village, Tsutoho Village, Hokiye Village, and other villages in the range.
Special thanks were also extended to Minister for Roads and Bridges G. Kaito Aye, for his personal involvement and continued support from the inception of the Satoi Connect Initiative.