Forest minister calls for united efforts to conserve elephants

TURA: Minister of Forest and Environment Lahkmen Rymbui on Thursday urged people to join hands for the conservation of elephants and other endangered species.
Rymbui was speaking at the closing ceremony of the four-day Gaj Yatra campaign here at Baghmara Government College Hall in South Garo Hills.
Highlighting the plight of elephants in the state and their habitat, which is rapidly diminishing, the minister urged the people to respect elephant corridors and give the animals space so as to avoid man-animal conflict.
Rongara Siju MLA Rakkam A Sangma, while highlighting the importance of preservation of forest and natural habitat, said Hoolock Gibbons are facing habitat loss due to rampant destruction of forest reserve. He urged the people to encourage free movement of wildlife and continue their protection and preservation.
Earlier, the Wildlife Trust of India (WTI) official, P Panda, in her introductory address informed the gathering about Gaj Yatra which means Elephants’ Journey and said altogether 12 states with substantial elephant population have been selected with an aim to create awareness about elephant corridors and encourage their free movement in their habitat.
Local MDC Sengnal N Sangma, Chief Conservator of Forests, P R Marak, Director of Balpakram National Park Division, S N Sangma and Joint Director of WTI, Sunil Kyarong were some of the others who spoke during the function.
A pledge to support the cause for protection and preservation of elephants and other wildlife species was also taken during the programme.