Nagaland: Community-led rescue and release pangopup at Mutingkhong

A baby pangolin (pangopup) was rescued and released back into the wild at Mutingkhong village, Kiphire district, through a community-led initiative carried out by the International Border Area Peoples’ Welfare Organisation (IBAPWO).
According to N Apong, Chief Functionary of IBAPWO, the pangolin was accidentally caught by a villager, Khumong, who immediately informed him, instead of harming the animal. Acting promptly, team IBAPWO coordinated with the villager to ensure the safety of the pangolin. After assessing the situation, the team carefully rescued the animal and released it back into its natural burrow at the same location, where the mother pangolin was present.
The organisation stated that the rescue was conducted with utmost care to minimise stress and maximise the chances of survival of the young pangolin. It added that the incident reflects how awareness, timely communication, and collaboration between local communities and grassroots organisations can play a crucial role in protecting endangered wildlife.
Pangolins, among the most trafficked mammals globally, are protected under Indian wildlife laws. IBAPWO noted that such incidents highlight the growing sense of responsibility and conservation awareness among border communities in Nagaland, particularly in remote areas where human–wildlife interactions are frequent.
IBAPWO has been actively working in the Indo–Myanmar border regions of Kiphire district to promote wildlife conservation, community stewardship, and coexistence with nature. The successful rescue at Mutingkhong village reinforces the belief that conservation efforts are most effective when local communities are at the forefront.