Zeliang backs youth-led climate drive in NE

Deputy chief minister T.R. Zeliang on Wednesday lauded the expansion of the Mobius Climate Project across all seven North Eastern states, calling it a significant step toward building climate resilience through youth engagement and indigenous wisdom.
Speaking at the Project Commencement Programme held at Hotel Vivor, Kohima, Zeliang described the initiative as a testament to power the collaboration between government, academia, civil society, and visionary organisations.
Referring to Nagaland’s successful implementation of the project in 2023–2024, Zeliang said it demonstrated how the state’s ecological heritage and climate challenges made it an ideal starting point for transformative climate action. “The selection and training of Young Climate Professionals, equipped to bridge research, policy, and grassroots action have already begun transforming our approach to nature-based solutions,” he said.
He noted that with the project now being extended to all seven Northeast states, a total of 63 young climate leaders (nine from each state) will be trained to carry forward the mission. These young professionals will work to bridge research, policy, and grassroots action across the region.
Zeliang stressed the importance of integrating traditional practices like community-led forest management and sustainable beekeeping– citing Nagaland’s own Beekeeping and Honey Mission as a success story. By doing this, he said the people are proving that local solutions can hold global relevance.
He expressed confidence that the next generation of climate leaders will not only safeguard forests and biodiversity but also educate communities and advocate for policies that honour cultural heritage while securing ecological future.
Highlighting the environmental fragility of the Northeast, Zeliang noted that despite being a biodiversity hotspot, the region faces mounting environmental threats—both natural and man-made. “These challenges endanger not just ecosystems but livelihoods and long-term sustainability,” he warned.
He lamented the low levels of environmental awareness in the region due to educational, socio-cultural, and infrastructural challenges. “Without awareness, even well-meaning development can destabilize fragile ecosystems,” he cautioned.
In this context, Zeliang said the Mobius Project’s focus on environmental education, community participation, and communication was vital to strengthening the region’s ecological resilience. He praised the project’s role in addressing issues like deforestation and called for a balanced approach where “tradition and innovation walk hand in hand toward a sustainable future.”
Founder & chairman of Mobius Foundation Pradip Burman, Mobius Foundation president Praveen Garg (IAS- Retd), Mobius foundation advisor Dr. Ram Boojh also addressed the gathering. Project lead of Mobius climate project and director climate studies & knowledge solutions centre, Dr. Atoho Jakhalu highlighted about the project.
Earlier, advisor Industries & Commerce, Hekani Jakhalu delivered the welcome address and advisor to chief minister and IDAN chairman Abu Metha delivered the closing address.
The programme also saw participation from climate educators, stakeholders, and representatives from across the region.