SHILLONG: Community forests in the State are facing threat due to human interventions like timber smuggling, poaching etc. This rampant destruction of forests in the State and the Northeast was discussed at length in a panel discussion held here on Monday.
Speaking at the panel discussion titled, “Wildlife Conservation and Communities”, organized by Hard News, Conservator of Forests, GW Kharmujai said that community forests, even though privately owned, are protected by law thanks to the amendment to the Wildlife Protection Act 1972.
The statement assumes significance since most forests in hilly areas of the Northeast are “managed by traditional institutions”.
Dr Abhijit Rabha, field director, Manas National Park recollected his efforts on bringing back the forest to life. While appreciating the concept of community participation, he said that Manas National Park was once facing a serious threat from the instances of poaching but community participation helped the authorities to a great extent in sustaining the park.
“We have formed a dedicated team of conservators comprising of foresters, erstwhile poachers and former militants,” he said.
The panel discussion also dwelt on the issue of human-wild life conflict and increasing participation and awareness among the youths about conservation.
