Kohima, Mar 19 (PTI) Nagaland Forest Minister C L John on Thursday called for urgent action to address the rising human–elephant conflict and deforestation, as he stressed the need for stronger community engagement and stricter enforcement measures to protect the state’s biodiversity.
Addressing the first-ever Nagaland Forest Officers Conference held at the Police Complex in the Chumoukedima district, he underlined the need for preventive strategies for safer human-animal coexistence.
An official statement said that John termed hunting as one of the most serious threats to biodiversity and called for a complete ban on it.
He also raised concerns over indiscriminate tree felling and pressed for enhanced monitoring and regulation of forest resources.
The minister underscored the importance of collective responsibility, stating that joint efforts of the government, communities and citizens are essential to preserve Nagaland’s forests and wildlife for future generations.
In his keynote address, Principal Secretary Y Kikheto Sema described the conference as a historic initiative, noting that it was the first such gathering since the establishment of the state’s Forest Department in 1963.
Highlighting Nagaland’s unique landholding system, where the department controls less than five per cent of the land, Sema urged officers to act as custodians of the environment while strengthening engagement with communities.
During the conference, key discussions focused on forest management, biodiversity conservation, soil and water protection, and the adoption of modern tools for data-driven governance.
It also stressed the need for joint forest management, creation of sustainable livelihood opportunities, and eco-tourism promotion.
Concern was raised over the underutilisation of Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA) funds, with officials noting that Nagaland was yet to avail itself of its benefits.
The meeting also highlighted the untapped potential of agarwood cultivation, with plans for collaboration with the Rain Forest Research Institute to promote scientific practices and enhance farmer income. PTI NBS NBS NSD
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