Nagaland Green Zone Project attracts international attention

The Tzula (Dikhu) Green Zone Project initiated and formed by the Longsa and Ungma Village Councils of the Mokokchung district on 6th April, 2010, has attracted international attention.

According to the Chairman of the TGZPMC (Tzula Green Zone Project Management Committee), Tiameren Longkumer, during the Environmental Protection Campaign programme held at Longsa Village on Saturday last, has informed that the International Forum for Community Conserve Area (ICCA) that works in Bolivia, Indonesia, Niger, Philippines and Spain, will be coming in May this year to interact with the local community and document their work, culture, flora and fauna. It may be mentioned that Piran Elavia from KIPEPEO, Mumbai, had also visited the area in November last year.

The Chairman further informed that the Committee has been receiving professional advise, financial aid and fish seedlings from the Directorate of Fisheries, Government of Nagaland. The two Village Councils have also signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Department of Forest, Ecology, Environment and Wildlife and have been receiving help in different forms. The Environmental Protection Campaign was also held under the aegis of the Department. Nagaland Empowerment of People through Economic Development (NEPED) had also sponsored the Committee for an exposure trip to Arunachal Pradesh last year. It also inform that 14 neighbouring Sumi villages have agreed to join the project under the name 'Nangka (Dikhu) Greener Zone'. It was informed that a Sub-Committee has been formed to assist visitors and tourists.

Earlier, in his brief address, District Fishery Officer of Mokokchung reported that there are 3 uncommon species of fish in Dikhu River. A similar programme was held at Ungma village in the afternoon. 5 sets of LPG cylinders and stoves were distributed in the two villages after the programmes. It may be noted that hunting and fishing at Longsa and Ungma areas are banned throughout the year and defaulters are fined a prohibitive amount of Rs 50,000, sources said.

Published at Webindia123 on Monday, Apr 15 2013