A baby pangolin was successfully rescued and released through a community-led effort at Mutingkhong Village in Kiphire district, Nagaland, close to the Indo–Myanmar international boundary.
According to the International Border Area Peoples’ Welfare Organisation (IBAPWO), the animal was “accidentally caught” at the village and was discovered by a local resident, Khumong. Demonstrating responsible and conservation-friendly conduct, he did not harm the pangolin and instead informed N Apong, chief functionary of IBAPWO, about the incident.
Following the information, a team from IBAPWO promptly coordinated with the villager and reached the site to ensure the safety of the animal. After assessing the situation, the team carefully rescued the baby pangolin.
Keeping in mind the ecological sensitivity of pangolins and the importance of maternal care for young pangolins, the team ensured that the animal was safely released back into its natural burrow at the same location, where the mother pangolin was present. The rescue and release were carried out with care to minimise stress to the animal and to enhance its chances of survival in the wild.
“This incident stands as a positive example of how awareness, timely communication, and collaboration between local communities and grassroots organisations can play a crucial role in protecting endangered wildlife,” the IBAPWO stated.
Pangolins are among the most trafficked mammals globally and are protected under Indian wildlife laws.
The organisation added that the rescue reflected a growing sense of responsibility and conservation awareness among border communities in Nagaland, particularly in remote areas where human–wildlife interactions are common.
IBAPWO has been working in the Indo–Myanmar border regions of Kiphire district to promote wildlife conservation, community stewardship, and coexistence with nature. “This successful rescue at Mutingkhong Village reinforces the belief that conservation efforts are most effective when local communities are at the forefront,” the IBAPWO said.
The organisation expressed hope that the incident would help spread awareness and encourage similar responsible actions for wildlife conservation across the state.
It may be mentioned here that the IBAPWO is working on Pangolin Conservation near the Indo-Myanmar Border, Kiphire, Nagaland supported by WWF India under conservation Catalyst Program.
