[ Prem Chetry ]
SINGCHUNG, 28 Jul: To commemorate the World Nature Conservation Day (WNCD), an interactive workshop was jointly organised by Nature Mates (NM) from Kolkata and the Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary (EWS) at the nature interpretation camp in Ramaling in Singchung subdivision of West Kameng district on Tuesday.
Speaking on the occasion, EWS Assistant Conservator of Forests Yachang Kani said that such workshops play a key role in enhancing people’s understanding of nature and every creature that forms part of the environment.
“EWS, being one of the state’s richest biodiversity hotspots, is endowed with dozens of species of flora and fauna, including some of the rarest and endemic species. Their conservation is our obligation,” he said, highlighting the environmental significance of the sanctuary.
He expressed gratitude to Sarika Baidya, researcher and programme manager of the Ludlow’s Bhutan Glory Conservation Project under NM, for creating awareness among the people about habitat conservation and Ludlow’s Bhutan glory.
“Baidya has been associated with the project since 2023, and has been contributing to raising awareness among the people about local insect diversity,” he added.
Meanwhile, Baidya said, “We need to continue our efforts to keep the interest of the local community alive. Such events provide us with an opportunity to interact closely with community members, where they can share their perspectives during group sessions.”
Sharing his views, EWS forest guard Kime Tadu highlighted the importance of conservation. “This is our land. Therefore, it is our duty to keep our villages clean. We should ensure that no river is poisoned, no land is polluted, and all wildlife is protected,” he said.
On the other hand, Sili Dema Phinya, a member of the Braiduah Community Reserve (BCR), shared her perspective, saying, “It is getting hotter than before. We are even experiencing problems such as water shortage in our villages.” She stressed that immediate action is needed to prevent further deterioration of the environment.
Ambar Dey and bird expert Lina Chatterjee, members of the butterfly conservation team, spoke about the importance of insects and birds in maintaining ecological balance, and their vital role in sustaining the environment.
The workshop witnessed enthusiastic participation of members of the local Bugun community, staffers of the Singchung Bugun Village Community Reserve and the BCR, as well as officials from the Forest Department.
