Jowai:
The week-long celebrations of wildlife with the theme “Partnership for Wildlife Conservation” organised by the office of the Divisional Forest Officer, Jaintia Hills Wildlife Division, Jowai concluded on October 20 at a valedictory function held at Demthring village in the community hall.
Principal Chief Conservator of forest (Biodiversity & Wildlife) and Chief Wildlife Warden SM Sahai, attended as the chief guest while Chief Conservator of Forest (Wildlife) PK Agrahari was the guest of honour.
Speaking on the occasion, Sahai said this year’s theme is relevant as most of the forest areas are either under the private or community ownership and lone conservation effort of the department cannot be sufficient unless there is an active participation and active support from the communities which have been a tradition. He extended his heartfelt thanks to all the local people for their support and hope that they continue to support the department in conserving the forest and wildlife in future endeavours. He also congratulated the students for their active participation in all the activities conducted by the department.
The department had conducted painting and extempore competitions for the students and winners were awarded with certificates.
Wildlife Samarita Award 2022-2023 was given to Daioo Wan of Moodymmai Wah Village and Kelsi Lapasam of Chutwakhu, Jowai for rescuing Barn Owls.
Wildlife Samarita Award 2023-2024 were also given to Monlang Talang of Nongbareh Rim village for rescuing a Leopard Cat, Hynruki Dkhar of Barato village and Sambha Dhar of Ladthadlaboh, Jowai for rescuing a Slow Loris, Achuhmi Lamare of Mupliang village for rescuing a Masked Palm Civet, Marbanki Law of Moolibang Shangpung village for rescuing an Asian Barred Owlets, Emmichirup Jones Pyrtuh of Sohmynting village for rescuing a Keeled Box turtle, Shanlangki Sungoh of Shagpung Khliehrangnah village and Fairy June Sungoh of Mootyrchiah village for rescuing Monitor Lizard, T Padit of Mynsngat village for rescuing a Leopard cat, Liiomio Laloo of Tpep Pale, Jowai for rescuing a Indian Giant Flying Squirrel, Saphiius Suting of Salaroh, Jowai for rescuing a Tokay Gecko, Kopsarlin Rymbai of Salaroh, Jowai for rescuing White Breasted Kingfisher, Arban Sungoh of Mooralong, Jowai for rescuing a Black Kite Indian and Damemaia Sakhiat Laloo of Khimmusniang, Jowai for rescuing a Ferret Badger.
The department also felicitated the Rangbah Shnongs of six villages.