Chief Minister Dr Neiphiu Rio today officially launched the Enhancing Landscape and Ecosystem Management (ELEMENT) Nagaland Project at the Chief Minister’s Secretariat. Funded by the World Bank-IBRD, the five-year initiative will cover 225 villages across 16 districts and is implemented by the Society for Climate Resilient Agriculture in Nagaland (SoCRAN) under the Agriculture Production Commissioner Cell.
The project focuses on four key components, including strengthening capacities for integrated landscape management to promote sustainable use of natural resources.
CM Rio said ELEMENT “represents a significant milestone in our commitment to restore, conserve, and sustainably manage Nagaland’s unique landscapes and rich forest wealth.” Highlighting Nagaland’s forests as vital for livelihoods, culture, and ecological services, he warned that these assets are under threat from climate change, erosion, landslides, and shifting cultivation, increasing the vulnerability of rural communities.
He emphasized that women and marginalized groups will have meaningful participation in governance and enterprise development. “The project’s holistic approach addresses both ecological and livelihood challenges, creating a model of inclusive and sustainable development in the State,” Rio added. He also stressed collaboration among state agencies, research institutions, NGOs, local communities, and development partners, calling on the State Project Steering Committee to provide strategic oversight.
Dinesh Aryal, Lead Environment Specialist at the World Bank, praised Nagaland’s forests for their cultural, economic, and environmental significance, noting they are threatened by climate-related and human factors. He stressed the importance of a dedicated Director and advance budget planning for timely implementation, expressing hope the project will benefit communities and promote sustainable forest management.
Kumar Ramnikant IAS, Secretary & Project Director of ELEMENT, said the initiative comes at a time of environmental challenges, including declining forest cover, soil erosion, and water pressure, and aims to combine ecological restoration with livelihood enhancement, ensuring communities are partners, not just beneficiaries.
Chief Secretary Sentiyanger Imchen IAS underscored the importance of effective implementation, timely completion, and community involvement for the project’s success.
The launch also included the unveiling of the ELEMENT Project Logo. Officials present included Advisor Agriculture Mhathung Yanthan, AHODs, HODs, and department officials.