Nagaland Community Conserved Areas’ Forum (NCCAF) observed International Day of Forests on March 21, 2025 at Council Hall, Meluri Village, under the theme “Unbroken Forests, Unbroken Future.”
The event, covering Kiphire and Meluri districts, underscored the urgent need to protect and restore animal corridors to maintain ecological balance.
Kiphire and Meluri districts, known for their rich forest cover, are crucial in Nagaland’s conservation efforts. As both districts share an international border with Myanmar, they play a vital role—along with other eastern border districts—in creating diverse and continuous animal corridors that connect ecosystems across the region.
The program, chaired by Seve Ringa Vadeo, secretary, NCCAF, commenced with an invocation by Seküsü Nyusou, head GB, Riehoupe Village, followed by a brief overview of NCCAF’s initiatives and activities by Heirang Lungalang, chairman, NCCAF.
A key highlight of the event was a presentation by Siechutho Katiry, Wildlife Warden, Kiphire, who emphasized the importance of forests and biodiversity conservation. His presentation covered World Biodiversity Hotspots, Nagaland’s forest cover, and relevant constitutional provisions such as Article 48(A), Article 51A(g), and Article 371A, which safeguard forests and wildlife. He also elaborated on the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, stressing legal measures against hunting and habitat destruction.
In line with the program theme, Katiry also emphasized the importance of an “Unbroken Commitment” towards conservation efforts, urging communities, authorities, and individuals to take continuous, active steps to preserve Nagaland’s rich biodiversity.
Delivering keynote address, Chenibemo Odyuo, senior project manager, Foundation for Ecological Security, discussed community-led biodiversity conservation in Nagaland.
The second session, moderated by Setsachum Sangtam, treasurer, NCCAF, included an interactive session where stakeholders engaged in discussions on wildlife protection, legal frameworks, and conservation challenges. The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Tokugha Sumi, vice chairman, NCCAF, followed by mass prayer to conclude the program.