Kohima: Hunting and deforestation are dropping in Lokhung village. Officials say locals now choose better paths. The Tuensang Forest Division reported this decline on July 15. The change follows an Environmental and Wildlife Sensitisation Programme held July 14 under the Forest and Biodiversity Management in the Himalaya Project. Germany co-financed the work through KfW.
The day began with a nature walk. The Project Implementing Agency led the group. They tracked wildlife and identified local plants to gauge biodiversity. Later, attendees met at the Lokhung Village Council Hall.
Range Forest Officer Menya Wongto praised the village for its protection of reserved forests. He noted that success requires help from the Church, the Village Council, student groups, and the Community Conserved Area Committee. Women also hold a lead role. Toshila, representing a local Self-Help Group, spoke on sustainable livelihoods for women.
The agency ran a technical session on the Wild Life Protection Act of 1972. They reviewed specific penalties and citizen duties. The group also examined how local laws protect nature. "The session also discussed the relevance of Article 371A of the Constitution in supporting biodiversity conservation alongside customary institutions in Nagaland." The event finished with a community lunch and a firm pledge to keep the forests alive.
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