Kohima: Nagaland officials held two zonal workshops on July 28 and 29 to draft a new Community Conserved Areas Policy. The meetings took place in Tuensang and Mokokchung. The Foundation for Ecological Security, Nagaland State Biodiversity Board, Nagaland Community Conserved Areas Forum, and the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development hosted the events.
The policy aims to protect biodiversity while keeping customary land ownership intact. Local experts want to strengthen community institutions. Participants gathered at the Chang Baptist Lashong Thangyen in Tuensang and Sangtemla Union Hall in Mokokchung. Attendees included representatives from Tuensang, Shamator, Noklak, Kiphire, Mon, Mokokchung, and Zunheboto districts.
The sessions focused on management, recognition procedures, and support mechanisms. NCCAF Chairman Heirang Lungalang opened the Tuensang event. FES Regional Head Sanjay Sharma and Tzula Green Zone CCA Chairman Imliyanger Jamir provided introductory remarks. Stakeholders emphasized that locals must maintain control over their lands.
Participants pushed for the inclusion of women and youth in decision-making. They demanded transparent recognition based on Free, Prior and Informed Consent. The groups agreed that the policy should enhance, not replace, existing systems. They concluded that the state must provide real help. "The proposed policy should strengthen existing customary conservation systems rather than replace them." Future drafts will now incorporate these specific community recommendations.
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