Guwahati: In a remarkable stride for wildlife conservation, Nagaland has welcomed back one of Asia’s most elusive forest dwellers — the critically endangered Asian Giant Tortoise (AGT). Ten of these majestic creatures, often referred to as the “small elephants of the forest” for their pivotal role in seed dispersal and forest regeneration, were reintroduced into the Zeliang community forest in Peren district on Saturday.
The historic event, led by the Nagaland State Forest Department and the India Turtle Conservation Program (ITCP), marks the first phase of a long-term effort to revive wild AGT populations in the region.
“These tortoises were bred and headstarted at the Nagaland Zoological Park, which now holds India’s largest captive population of the species,” said C. Zupeni Tsanglai, IFS, Director of the zoo. “This is a critical step toward pulling them back from the brink of extinction.”
The release was no ordinary affair. Local leaders, forest officials, and villagers gathered as the tortoises were gently ushered into a soft-release enclosure — a temporary home designed to help them acclimatize before dispersing into the surrounding rainforest. Each tortoise is tagged with a VHF telemetry system, allowing scientists to track their movements and survival.
“This is not just about saving a species,” emphasized Shailendra Singh of ITCP. “The Asian Giant Tortoise plays an unseen but vital role in keeping forests alive and thriving.”
Equally significant was the community’s involvement. Youths from the Zeliang community have been appointed as “Tortoise Guardians,” entrusted with monitoring the tortoises, collecting data, and ensuring their safety. A newly inaugurated Turtle and Tortoise Corner in the community hall now serves as an awareness hub, showcasing the species’ importance and the community’s commitment to conservation.
According to Tokaho Kinimi, IFS, Wildlife Warden of Dimapur, the site was carefully chosen after an extensive habitat suitability study. “Community and Conservation Reserves in Nagaland have proven to be highly effective in preserving forests and wildlife under shared leadership,” he said.
The reintroduction followed stringent health protocols — the tortoises underwent thorough medical checks and a six-month quarantine before being declared fit for release.
“Once we confirm the success of this pilot release, more tortoises will follow,” noted Sushmita Kar, Project Coordinator of ITCP.
The event also carried cultural weight. “For the Naga people, this initiative symbolizes how conservation can blend seamlessly with our way of life,” said Chisayi, IFS, Divisional Forest Officer of Peren.
Echoing the community spirit, D. Robin, NCS, Additional Deputy Commissioner of Peren, assured that the administration will take special measures to safeguard the released tortoises.
As the first group of Asian Giant Tortoises slowly made their way into the forest, the moment underscored a powerful message — that when communities stand guard, even species on the edge of extinction can find a way back home.
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