Kohima: Officials gathered at Marepkong Community Hall on July 3 to track progress on the Forest and Biodiversity Management in the Himalaya project. It was the first time the review left Kohima. The team wanted closer access to the field.
Germany funds the work through the KfW Development Bank. The program started in 2021. The Nagaland Forest Department and NEPED run the show across 64 villages. They focus on conservation and economic development.
Teams from five different districts delivered status reports. They covered everything from human-elephant conflict to GIS mapping and new livelihood programs. The group also looked at how to pull churches and faith-based groups into local conservation efforts.
Project Director Sidramappa Chalkapure led the final session. He set the tone for the coming months. The meeting reaffirmed the project's commitment to "sustainable forest management, biodiversity conservation and improved rural livelihoods through coordinated efforts involving government agencies, local communities and project stakeholders."
Leaders demanded better documentation and faster work. They want accurate reporting from every division. Regular field checks will keep everyone on track.
Comments