Changlangshu/Nagaland: Wanmei Konyak, a passionate environmentalist, was inspired to take action for the conservation of nature and wildlife through his participation in the Green Hub Fellowship programme.

Upon returning to his hometown of Changlangshu, he co-founded the Changlangshu Biodiversity Management Committee (CBMC), a programme on environment, wildlife, conservation and climate sustainability through filmmaking with nine others in 2018 to kickstart a forest restoration project in the area.

With a strong commitment to environmental preservation, Konyak and the CBMC are working towards creating a sustainable future for their village and beyond.

The Changlangshu Biodiversity Management Committee (CBMC) is making a significant impact on their village's environment by conducting two plantation drives annually during the monsoon season.

They prioritize indigenous tree species and ensure proper care by conducting weed clearing thrice a year, constructing tree guards, pruning, and providing necessary manure.

Monthly monitoring is also conducted at the restoration site to track the progress of the planted saplings. With their proactive approach towards conservation, CBMC is setting a remarkable example for others to follow.

“So far, we have planted at least 2000-2500 native trees. Another first plantation drive for the current year will be carried out later next month at the restoration site with a target of 600-700 saplings,” stated Konyak.

The Committee faced several challenges in their restoration efforts, including the issue of Naga land ownership and rampant hunting of wildlife.

Through consultations and negotiations with traditional land and forest owners, they were able to declare the areas as a community reserve forest and impose hunting bans during breeding season and in restoration areas.

They have since shown support for the team, with two families donating jhum areas for restoration. With over 30 members and community support, Changlangshu BMC is working towards the success of their Eaknyak and Takshoak restoration areas, which they hope will become part of the reserve forest in the future.