Dimapur: The Department of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Nagaland, on April 16 inaugurated the Doyang Wildlife Division along with a dedicated control room aimed at addressing the growing human-elephant conflict (HEC) in the region.
The programme was held at the Doyang Wildlife Division office in Forest Colony, Wokha, with Forest, Environment and Climate Change Minister C L John attending as the chief guest.
Addressing the gathering, the minister emphasised the need to translate environmental awareness into concrete action and highlighted the importance of maintaining a balance between forests, wildlife and human needs for sustainable development. He noted that while traditional respect for nature is deeply rooted among Naga communities, broader awareness and active participation in conservation efforts have only recently begun to gain momentum.
Focusing on the issue of human-elephant conflict, John called for coexistence and urged communities to cooperate in mitigating wildlife-related damage. He assured that systems are being strengthened to ensure quicker response and redressal.
Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and Head of Forest Force Vedpal Singh said the establishment of the Doyang Wildlife Division was driven by the increasing frequency of human-elephant conflict in Wokha. He described the new division and control room as a significant step towards enabling timely intervention and providing support to affected communities.
Principal Secretary Y. Kikheto Sema also highlighted the need for sustained awareness and long-term planning, adding that efforts are underway to secure externally aided projects to tackle the issue more comprehensively.
The newly created division, carved out of the erstwhile Doyang Plantation Division, will cover the forest divisions of Wokha, Mokokchung and Zunheboto. Officials said it is expected to strengthen conservation measures while offering a dedicated mechanism to manage wildlife-related conflicts in the region.