TURA: In a bid to protect and preserve the rich biodiversity of the region, West Garo Hills Deputy Commissioner, Ram Singh along with the members of the Huro Programme recently released one Slow Loris (nycticebus bengalensis) at Rangwalkamgre Community Reserved Forest near Babadam under West Garo Hills District.
The animal had strayed into human habitation at Resubelpara of North Garo Hills and was rescued by one, Xavi Xavier N Sangma who informed the Huro Programme that came forward to rescue the animal.
Manager of Huro Programme, Pakseng Sangma, informed that Huro Programme is a Wildlife NGO based in Garo Hills and has been working since 2008 for the protection and conservation of Hoolock Gibbons in particular and other wild animals in general. The team took immediate custody of the animal and brought it to its centre at Silchotchigre.
In view of the Slow Loris being considered as a schedule 1 animal whose icon status was categorized as vulnerable, the in-house volunteer Vet decided to minimize this healthy animal’s exposure to various diseases by being in close company with humans. The animal had to be release as soon as possible, he added.
Accordingly, a small programme was organised at the Rangwalkamgre Nokmas residence which was attended by the people from nearby villages as well. The members of Huro programme sensitized the village people of the impending doom and the necessity to conserve wildlife and its habitat in the region.
Deputy Commissioner, Ram Singh pledged his undying support for a good cause and lauded the relationship and sense of belonging by the Achiks to their land.
During the release of the slow loris in the community forest of Rangwakamgre, people could witness exotic birds like racket tailed dronggo and scarlet minivet hovering around the forest area.
Members of Huro programme informed that the loris has been aptly named “Rambo” after West Garo Hills DC, Ram Singh for his unending support and concern for the wildlife and environment which is facing its biggest challenge to survive at the moment. We will monitor the animal to see if it can adapt to its new surroundings, they said.
Voluntary Members of Huro Programme India, Bhuto R Marak and Dr Saljagringrang Marak were also present during this programme.