Special Correspondent
Ukhrul, Aug 23:
In a decisive move towards conservation, the Tangkhul Naga Awunga Long (TNAL) has taken a significant step by signing a resolution that bans the hunting and consumption of the Chinese Pangolin (Manis pentadactyla) within their jurisdiction in Manipur. The resolution was signed by TNAL President, Eno Kashung Tennyson, and has far-reaching implications for the preservation of this endangered species. The TNAL, which is the apex body of Tangkhul Naga headmen and governs approximately 250 plus villages across the Ukhrul, Kamjong, and Senapati districts, has now made a firm commitment to protecting the pangolin.
This resolution is the culmination of over 18 months of relentless efforts by the Wildlife Trust of India (WTI). Through their Countering Pangolin Trafficking Project, which is supported by the Wildlife Conservation Network’s Pangolin Crisis Fund (PCF), WTI has been working to combat the illegal wildlife trade that has plagued the region. The Indo-Myanmar border, with its porous boundaries, has become a hotspot for wildlife trafficking, with the pangolin being one of the most sought-after animals.
Pangolins are the world’s most trafficked mammals, largely due to the demand for their scales and meat in traditional Chinese medicine and wet markets. Their scales are believed to have medicinal properties, while their meat is considered a delicacy in some cultures. As a result, pangolins hunted in the hills of Manipur often find their way across the border and into international markets across Southeast Asia. This illegal trade has decimated the pangolin population, pushing the species to the brink of extinction.
The Tangkhul Naga community’s decision to ban the hunting and consumption of pangolins marks a crucial turning point in the fight against wildlife trafficking. Eno Kashung Tennyson, the TNAL president, emphasized the urgency of the situation. “Unless we take immediate action to raise awareness about the importance of this species among local communities,” he warned, “we risk losing it forever.” He further highlighted that the resolution passed by the TNAL is legally binding on all community members, ensuring that conservation efforts are not only acknowledged but actively implemented.
The Wildlife Trust of India, in partnership with local communities, will continue to raise awareness about the importance of the pangolin and its role in the ecosystem. Signage promoting the conservation message has been strategically placed throughout the district, serving as constant reminders of the community’s commitment to protecting the species. In addition to this, WTI has also collaborated with local churches in Ukhrul to further disseminate information about the pangolin’s ecological significance and the need for its protection.
“This is a strong example of how a community can lead conservation projects and save endangered species like the pangolin,” said Monesh Singh Tomar, Senior Field Officer at Wildlife Trust of India. The TNAL resolution, he believes, is a vital first step in ensuring that the pangolin is protected within the region.
Jose Louies, Chief Executive Officer of the Wildlife Trust of India, also commended the community’s initiative. “The Resolution of the Tangkhul Naga Community to protect the pangolin is highly appreciated by the Wildlife Trust of India,” he said. “Such community-driven initiatives can be some of the most impactful decisions and actions that could save the natural heritage and culture of the indigenous communities in the hills of Northeast India.”
Community-driven conservation efforts are essential for the long-term preservation of endangered species. In regions like Manipur, where traditional hunting practices have been deeply rooted in cultural norms for generations, shifting attitudes towards wildlife conservation requires a grassroots approach. By involving local communities in the decision-making process, organizations like WTI are helping to foster a sense of ownership and responsibility among indigenous people, empowering them to take charge of their natural heritage.
The TNAL resolution stands as a beacon of hope, signaling a new era of community-led conservation in Northeast India. As the Tangkhul Naga community continues to embrace sustainable practices, their actions will not only safeguard the pangolin but also set an example for other communities across the region.
In the face of increasing threats to biodiversity, the preservation of endangered species like the pangolin is more important than ever. The Tangkhul Naga community’s commitment to banning the hunting and consumption of pangolins is a crucial step toward ensuring that these remarkable creatures continue to thrive in their natural habitat for generations to come.
This initiative showcases the power of collaboration between conservation organizations and local communities in achieving lasting change. With continued efforts from both the TNAL and WTI, the future of the pangolin looks brighter, and the hills of Manipur may once again become a safe haven for this endangered species.
