In a significant step toward wildlife conservation during Wildlife Week 2024, twenty airguns were surrendered by the youth of Nitoi village in Nagaland’s Kiphire district. The special program, organized by the Kiphire Forest Division and Wildlife Division, was reported by the Department of Information and Public Relations (DIPR).
Addressing the gathering, Kiphire Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) Rama Shankar Prasad, IFS, highlighted the importance of peaceful coexistence with nature. He emphasized that harmony with forests, wildlife, and the environment is essential for ensuring a better future for humanity. Prasad further called for minimizing human-wildlife conflict, stating that such balance can be achieved through individual actions.
Wildlife Week, celebrated annually in the first week of October, aims to raise awareness about the protection of wildlife. Prasad reminded attendees that the responsibility to safeguard wildlife and the environment lies with everyone.
The event also saw the presence of Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) of Kiphire, Longdiba L. Sangtam, and Range Officer Aaron R. Yimchunger. In a notable contribution to the cause, twenty airguns were voluntarily surrendered by the village youth during the program.
The airgun surrender initiative is part of the Department of Environment, Forests & Climate Change, Government of Nagaland’s larger goal to curb hunting activities and promote wildlife conservation in the region.
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