A one-day awareness programme on wildlife protection and conservation under the theme “Protect Wildlife, Preserve Nature, Secure Our Future” was conducted by the Ukhrul Forest Division in collaboration with Ukhrul District Working Journalist Association (UDWJA).
In her address to the gathering, especially to the journalists, the DFO, Laishram Gitla (IFS) stated, “it is an honor to stand before you today during Van Mahotsav—our annual week-long festival of trees. While thousands of citizens across the country are holding saplings in their hands today, you hold something infinitely more powerful in yours: the pen, the camera, and the microphone. A sapling planted in the soil grows into a tree. But a story planted in the minds of the public can grow into a movement. That is why the press is not just an observer of environmental conservation; you are its life support system.
Stressing on the significant role of the fourth estate, she asserted that “conservation cannot happen in the dark. The press plays vital roles in safeguarding our environment. Through features, documentaries, and daily reporting, you demystify concepts like climate change, biodiversity loss, and the simple, profound impact of festivals like Vana Mahotsav. You teach citizens why the tree outside their window matters.”
She implored to the gathering that “you give a voice to the voiceless—the grassroots activists, the forest guards working in perilous conditions, and the rural communities who are the true custodians of our wilderness.Use your digital platforms to make conservation engaging, visual, and urgent for the younger generation.
”Nature does not have a PR agency. It relies entirely on the integrity of the press to tell its stories. Thank you for your voice, your courage, and your continuous dedication to truth and our shared planet.”
The RO of Chingai Bikram Nongmaithem stated that it was everyone’s fundamental duty to take care of our environment, our wildlife including the fauna and flora. He referenced what we were going to say to the future generations if Shirui Lily or Nongying bird were extinct. He tacitly pointed out the significant role of the present generation in protecting the wildlife, urging them to refrain from engaging in hunting, buying or consuming wild animals.
The programme was also participated by students from Oriental Naga Academy. Around 200 saplings of trees were planted at Charshung, Seipet Zingsho Phungreitang, Ukhrul during the programme.
