It is an undeniable fact that human interference with nature, especially in the form of snatching food from wild creatures, is one of the most disastrous trends in history. Since ancient times, wild animals have endured human exploitation under the banner of urbanization and economic development.
This exploitation, particularly in regions rich in biodiversity like Tripura, has pushed many species towards extinction. The situation in Tripura is so critical that if the primates could articulate their plight, they might echo the famous line, “Water, water everywhere, but not a drop to drink,” with a tragic twist: “Green leaf, green leaf everywhere, but not a green leaf to eat.”
Primates in Tripura
Tripura is home to seven species of primates, including Phayre’s Leaf Monkey (known locally as Chasma Banar), Hoolock Gibbon (Hoolock leuconedys), Slow Loris (Nycticebus bengalensis), Stump-Tailed Macaque (Macaca arctoides), Pig-Tailed Macaque (Macaca nemestrina), and Capped Langurs (Trachypithecus pileatus). Among these, some are already extinct in the wild, while others are endangered. The Spectacled Monkey (Chasma Banar) has managed to maintain its population despite challenging conditions, but their future remains uncertain.
Shortage & Change of Food Habits
Primates in Tripura consume a variety of plants, including fruits, leaves, flowers, seeds, and roots. Some key plants are jackfruit, mango, banana, jamun, bamboo shoots, neem, and medicinal plants like amla and bahera. In the era of development, these plants have become rare in the forest. The plants that stand tall in the midst of the forest are not sufficient to meet the demands of primates. The situation is so dire that spectacled monkeys, which naturally feed on diverse vegetation, have started eating twigs from rubber plants.
This sudden and forced change in dietary habits is alarming. Rubber plant twigs do not provide the necessary nutrients these primates need for survival and reproduction. Over time, this dietary shift will likely weaken their immune systems, reduce their reproductive rates, and make them more susceptible to diseases, thereby accelerating their journey towards becoming endangered species.
Deforestation and Monoculture
Under the guise of urbanization and infrastructure development, humans have been recklessly destroying the natural habitats of primates, inviting a food crisis for them. Merciless deforestation, shifting cultivation, and the introduction of monoculture plantations have destroyed their natural habitats. Rubber plantations were promoted as an economic solution to boost livelihoods and generate revenue. Over time, the success of this initiative encouraged local communities to replace their traditional agriculture and forest-based practices with rubber cultivation. While this shift improved human lives by providing stable income, it destabilized the delicate ecological equilibrium that existed between humans, wildlife, and nature.
The monoculture of rubber has created an acute shortage of food and shelter for wild animals. This scarcity has forced primates to venture into human habitats in search of food. Consequently, crop raiding by these animals has become a frequent issue, leading to conflicts between humans and wildlife. Farmers view these primates as pests and often resort to harmful measures like poisoning or trapping to protect their crops. They damage human properties and often cause injuries to people as well. These actions further endanger already vulnerable species. Most villages in Tripura are now struggling with monkeys, even in cities. Farmers are suffering huge crop losses because of them.
Unchecked Human Greed
Despite being the most intelligent species on the planet, humans have largely ignored the silent cries of wildlife. Greed has overshadowed compassion, and the relentless pursuit of economic growth has left wild animals on the brink of extinction. The capped langurs and Hoolock Gibbon, once thriving in Tripura’s lush forests, are now listed as endangered primates along with other species. These primates, forced to adapt to unnatural diets and encroaching human settlements, symbolize the broader issue of human-induced ecological imbalance. The situation is not limited to Tripura but reflects a global trend of prioritizing short-term economic gains over long-term ecological sustainability.
Is There a Way Forward?
The critical question remains: Is it justified to destroy wild habitats for human greed? On the surface, development and economic progress appear beneficial. However, when examined closely, the cost of this progress is far too high. If we continue on this path, future generations will inherit an impoverished planet, stripped of its natural wealth and biodiversity.
To address this crisis, we must adopt sustainable practices that balance economic development with ecological preservation. In Tripura, this means rethinking the dominance of rubber plantations and promoting alternative, eco-friendly livelihoods.
Promising Solutions
- Agarwood Cultivation: Agarwood (Aquilaria malaccensis), a native tree highly valued for its fragrant resin, can be a sustainable alternative to rubber. Agarwood plantations benefit both humans and wildlife.
- Native Forestry Species: Mandating the inclusion of native tree species in all plantations can restore biodiversity, providing food and shelter for wild animals.
- Community Conservation Programs: Engaging local communities in conservation efforts can create awareness and ensure effective implementation.
- Public Education: Educating people about the importance of wildlife and biodiversity is crucial for long-term ecological balance.
As the most intelligent creatures on Earth, humans have a moral responsibility to protect and coexist with other species. Wild animals, though voiceless, are essential components of our ecosystems. By destroying their habitats, we are not only harming them but also jeopardizing our survival. By choosing sustainable solutions and embracing coexistence, we can create a harmonious future for both humans and wildlife. Let us remember that protecting nature is not just a moral obligation—it is a necessity for our survival.
Also Read: Nagaland is home to many resources: Why are we not harnessing them?
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