Kohima: As India prepares to observe Wildlife Week 2024 from October 2 to 8, Nagaland’s Minister of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change, CL John, emphasised the shared responsibility of all citizens in safeguarding the state’s rich natural heritage.
The theme for this year’s Wildlife Week, “Wildlife Conservation Through Coexistence,” aims to highlight the importance of harmonious living between humans and nature.
In his message, he urged the people to join hands to celebrate Wildlife Week 2024, reaffirming their duty to protect and preserve the natural heritage.
The Department of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change (DEFCC) has lined up various events to mark the occasion, targeting different sections of society. Activities will include awareness campaigns, painting and debate competitions, quizzes, talk shows, a “Run for Nature,” and a sports meet.
The politician also highlighted Nagaland’s achievements in wildlife conservation, noting the state’s increasing number of Community Reserves (CRs), which have been established in nearly 200 villages. He credited the community-driven conservation efforts for bolstering the state’s wildlife protection measures.
The conservation of the Amur Falcon, a migratory bird, received special mention. Minister John expressed pride in the international recognition Nagaland has received for its successful efforts to protect the species, which has become a symbol of the state’s conservation commitment.
Encouraging the active participation of schools, village institutions, and civil society organizations (CSOs) in the celebrations, the minister thanked stakeholders, particularly the schools, whose involvement in pre-celebration competitions helped pave the way for national-level entries.
Also Read | Nagaland: Minority tribes oppose govt decision to register ‘indigenous’ tribes