Imphal: Tarong village in Manipur’s Kamjong district has imposed a complete ban on hunting and trapping within its jurisdiction, marking a significant community-led step towards wildlife conservation along the state’s border with Myanmar.
The decision took effect on August 15 following an environmental awareness campaign led by climate and environmental activist Jojo Robertson through the Jojo Robertson Foundation.
As part of the initiative, Lungshietram, a forested area within Tarong’s jurisdiction, has been designated as the Tarong Wildlife Conservation Site. The community has prohibited hunting, trapping, capturing and harming wild animals and birds within the designated area.
The restrictions apply not only to residents of Tarong and neighbouring villages but also to visitors and outsiders entering the area.
The conservation initiative was preceded by an awareness drive involving local residents, neighbouring communities and wildlife enthusiasts. The campaign focused on the importance of protecting wildlife habitats and addressing the gradual loss of biodiversity in the region.
The new conservation measures also seek to protect native trees, plants and other vegetation while preventing further degradation and fragmentation of natural habitats.
Located close to the international border with Myanmar, the area is considered important for maintaining wildlife habitats and potential movement corridors for species affected by increasing human pressure.
The Jojo Robertson Foundation said the initiative aims to promote coexistence between local communities and wildlife while encouraging long-term environmental protection and climate resilience in the hill areas of Manipur.
The Tarong Village Authority has appealed to neighbouring village councils, residents and civil society organisations to cooperate with the conservation measures and respect the protected status of Lungshietram.
Local authorities and conservation advocates hope the community-led initiative will encourage other hill villages in the Northeast to adopt similar measures for protecting their forests and wildlife.