The Nagaland Community Conserved Areas’ Forum (NCCAF) will celebrate its 10th Anniversary on November 19 at Khonoma village, with Salhoutuonuo Kruse, Minister of Women Resource Development, Nagaland, as the special guest.
The celebration aims to reflect on a decade of community-led conservation efforts and reaffirm the commitment to protecting Nagaland’s natural heritage.
Heirang Lungalang, Chairman of NCCAF, stated in a press release that this milestone event serves as a tribute to the dedication of communities working together to preserve the environment. The statement further highlighted that the anniversary will feature two sessions: a formal session and a second session dedicated to experience sharing, focus group discussions, and group discussions involving various Community Conserved Areas (CCAs) across Nagaland.
The second session will include presentations on four key topics: Ecotourism and Livelihood, Governance and Institutional Mechanisms, Sustainable Biodiversity and Research, and Capacity Building. Additionally, the focus group discussions will cover three themes: Challenges and Opportunities for Youth and Women in Conservation, Sustainable Development Goals and Challenges for CCAs, and Policy Governance and Management of CCAs.
The celebration will be attended by Community Conserved Areas representatives from across the state.
NCCAF History and Program Highlights of 10th Anniversary
The Nagaland Community Conserved Areas’ Forum (NCCAF) is an alliance of Community Conserved Areas (CCAs) across Nagaland dedicated to preserving the state’s rich biodiversity through local stewardship and traditional practices. Established with the voluntary efforts of indigenous communities, NCCAF currently represents 30 CCAs, encompassing 121 member villages. These CCAs collectively contribute to protecting forests, wildlife, and natural resources, benefiting both local ecosystems and the global environment.
NCCAF was officially formed on 19th November 2014, with support from the Foundation for Ecological Security and NEPED, who recognized the need for a collaborative platform where CCAs could cooperate and work together. Prior to this, CCAs in Nagaland were working independently without any coordination. The forum began with over half a dozen CCAs and was led by its first Chairman, Mr. Khreikhoto Mor from Khonoma Village.
Today, NCCAF fosters collaboration among CCAs, promoting knowledge sharing and coordinated conservation activities to expand green cover in Nagaland.
In the past decade, NCCAF has undertaken several notable initiatives. During the COVID-19 lockdown, the forum coordinated with its members to supply local vegetables to quarantine centers across district headquarters, ensuring essential supplies for those in need. Additionally, NCCAF provided Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and other essentials to frontline workers, demonstrating the power of community-led solidarity and resilience.
From 2019 to 2024, NCCAF visited all districts and organized workshops on conservation, promoting the recognition of indigenous conservation practices and inspiring further efforts to preserve biodiversity.
NCCAF also actively advocates for policy support to recognize and encourage the efforts of indigenous communities in conserving biodiversity. By participating in cultural events such as the Hornbill Festival, the forum highlights the essential role of Nagaland’s communities in sustaining ecological balance and encourages broader public engagement in conservation efforts. Furthermore, NCCAF’s member CCAs are expanding green cover through initiatives aimed at restoring degraded landscapes and promoting sustainable livelihoods, showcasing that community-based conservation is a powerful approach to tackling environmental challenges.
As we celebrate 10 years of community-led conservation, we are thrilled to announce that Khonoma Nature Conservancy and Tragopan Conservation – a member of NCCAF, along with the Khonoma Village Council has agreed to host the 10th Anniversary Celebrations on our formation day, i.e., 19th November. This milestone event will reflect on our journey, honor the contributions of individuals and communities, and envision the future of conservation in Nagaland.
Highlights of the NCCAF 10th Anniversary Celebration
The 10th Anniversary Celebration of NCCAF will be held on 19th November 2024 at the Khonoma Community Hall, Terhotsiese Khono Basa, Khonoma. The event will bring together stakeholders, member villages, and special guests to commemorate a decade of dedication and success in community conservation efforts.
The celebration will feature an invocation by Rev. Tsolie Chase, followed by a welcome address by Heirang Lungalang, Chairman of NCCAF, who will share insights into NCCAF’s 10-year journey. The event will also include cultural performances by member communities, highlighting the rich cultural heritage intertwined with conservation efforts.
Keynote speaker Mr. Amba Jamir, Advisor to NCCAF will reflect on the importance of community-led conservation and the role of indigenous knowledge in preserving biodiversity while Salhoutuonuo Kruse, Minister of Women Resource Development, Nagaland will be gracing the occasion as its Special guest. Member villages will be acknowledged for their contributions, and certificates of appreciation will be presented.
The afternoon session will involve experience sharing by member CCAs, focusing on sustainable biodiversity, eco-tourism, and livelihood initiatives. This will be followed by focused group discussions on challenges and opportunities for youth and women in conservation, sustainable development goals, and governance of CCAs.
The event will conclude with a valedictory address by Supongnukshi Ao, Chief Conservator of Forest, and a vote of thanks, followed by an informal tea and networking session to foster further collaboration and connection among attendees.
This event is a testament to the commitment of the people of Nagaland to preserve their natural heritage. As we move forward, NCCAF remains dedicated to enhancing cooperation between CCAs, fostering sustainable practices, and ensuring the voluntary conservation efforts of our indigenous communities are recognized and supported at both state and national levels.