Rio unveils ELEMENT project for landscape restoration

Nagaland chief minister Dr. Neiphiu Rio officially launched the Enhancing Landscape and Ecosystem Management (ELEMENT) Nagaland Project at the Chief Minister’s Secretariat, Nagaland Civil Secretariat, Kohima on Wednesday.
According to DIPR report, the project, funded by the World Bank–International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD), will be implemented over five years across 225 villages in 16 districts.
Implemented by the Society for Climate Resilient Agriculture in Nagaland (SoCRAN) under the Agriculture Production Commissioner Cell (APC Cell), the ELEMENT project focuses on strengthening capacities for integrated landscape management, promoting sustainable use of natural resources, and addressing ecological and livelihood challenges.
Speaking at the launch, Rio described the project as a milestone in the state’s commitment to restore and sustainably manage Nagaland’s rich forest wealth. He noted that although Nagaland covers only 2.1% of India’s geographical area, it plays a vital role in sustaining livelihoods, preserving culture, and providing ecological services. However, he warned that climate change, shifting cultivation, and erosion of natural resources have increased vulnerability among rural communities.
Rio emphasized that forests are deeply intertwined with the life and traditions of tribal communities and called for inclusive participation, especially of women and marginalized groups, in governance and enterprise development. He urged collaboration among state agencies, research institutions, NGOs, and local communities and called on the State Project Steering Committee to provide strategic oversight.
Lead Environment Specialist at the World Bank, Dinesh Aryal, highlighted the cultural and ecological significance of Nagaland’s forests and reiterated the World Bank’s commitment to support sustainable forest management. He recommended appointing a dedicated project director and initiating budget processes early to ensure timely fund release.
Secretary & Project Director ELEMENT, Kumar Ramnikant, introduced the project as a timely intervention to address declining forest cover, soil erosion, and climate impacts. He said the initiative aims to restore landscapes while enhancing livelihoods, with communities as key partners.
Chief Secretary Sentiyanger Imchen, in his keynote, stressed the importance of effective implementation, timely completion, and active community involvement for the success of the project.
Earlier, Rio officially launched the ELEMENT Project and unveiled its logo. The programme was attended by advisor for Agriculture Mhathung Yanthan, senior government officials, AHODs, HODs, and department representatives.