Nagaland Forest Project Shifts Focus to Field-Level Conservation

Kohima: Forest officials gathered at Marepkong Community Hall to evaluate the Forest and Biodiversity Management in the Himalaya Project. This session marked the first time the review moved out of Kohima. Officials wanted better field coordination. The project kicked off in 2021 with backing from the German government through KfW Development Bank.

Teams from five districts reported on their work. They tackled tough issues like human-elephant conflicts and springshed management. The group also mapped out strategies for livelihood programs and local resource management. Project director Sidramappa Chalkapure stressed the need for results. He stated, "The review reaffirmed FBMP’s commitment to sustainable forest management, biodiversity conservation and improved rural livelihoods through coordinated efforts among government agencies, local communities and stakeholders."

Work spans 13 areas across 64 villages. Implementation relies on the Forest Department and NEPED. Leaders pushed for better documentation and stricter field monitoring. They also want faith-based groups more involved in future conservation plans.