Two-day training programme for prevention of wildlife crime, investigation and intelligence collection for forest officers, DFOs, ACFs, RFOs and Deputy RFOs got underway at Forest office complex, Dimapur, Monday with minister for forest minister Dr. Neikiesalie Kire as chief guest.
The programme is jointly organized by the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB), Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC), Government of India and Nagaland Forest Department.
Speaking at the inaugural programme, Dr. Nicky spoke on the genesis and status of wildlife crime, difference of wildlife crime with general crime. He appreciated the efforts of WCCB, MoEF for conducting the training.
Dr. Nicky also lauded the conservation successes of forest department quoting example of “Zero hunting of Amur Falcon from 2013” and the resolution of NBCC not to serve any wild meat.
He appealed all to follow the same to effectively reduce wildlife crime in the state and requested the forest officials to check in check-gates for wildlife smuggling.
Dr. Nicky requested WCCB on behalf of the forest department to open WCCB cell in Nagaland and reinforce resources since Nagaland seems to be a critical transit location.
PCCF and HoFF M. Lokeswara Rao while delivering welcome address briefed the background of illegal wildlife trade in the country and world and said it was estimated to be in the magnitude of 7 lakh for the birds alone which was rarely reported.
Joint Director, WCCB, MoEF&CC Kamal Dutta spoke on the role of WCCB and MoEF&CC in prevention and control of wildlife crime. He also deliberated on various wildlife legislations, wildlife crime scenario in India and other parts of the world and role of WCCB in combating wildlife crime. He also informed that there would be mock drill of smuggling so the officers will get firsthand experience.
ACF Obed Zeliang and RFO Imkongsunep shared their experiences of exposure visit to Kasetsart University, Bangkok, Thailand and about the various aspects of ecotourism and endangered species conservation.
Chief Wildlife Warden Satya Prakash Tripathi requested for training of judicial magistrates for interpretation of Wild Life (Protection) Act 1972 in true letter and spirit.
Assistant Director A. Roy Choudhary, Assistant Director S. V. Shesadri, SP Retd S. R. Majumdar and Borah were also present as resource persons from WCCB.