Pujenvong Council in Nagaland leads the charge to save Pangolin

Pungro, October 15 (MExN): In a significant community-led conservation move, the Pujenvong council in Nagaland’s Kiphire district has imposed a ‘complete and immediate ban on the hunting, consumption, and trade of Pangolins within its jurisdiction.’

The decision, announced on Wednesday, aims to protect the critically endangered mammal, which faces severe threats from poaching across Northeast India, stated a press release. Pujenvong council comprises of Pungro Village, Jenty Village, Old Vongti Village, and New Vongti Village.

The ban was implemented by the village councils and community organizations under the Pujenvong council, targeting illegal activities that have pushed the pangolin to the brink of extinction. 

Pangolins, often called “scaly anteaters,” are reportedly the world’s most trafficked mammal, highly sought after for their scales “falsely believed to have medicinal properties and their meat.” The region, located near the Indo-Myanmar border, has been a major transit route for the illegal wildlife trade, it stated. 

The announcement is expected to have a profound impact, especially given the historical hunting practices in parts of the region. However, conservation awareness campaigns, particularly by groups like the Wildlife Trust of India (WTI) and dedicated local NGO Eco Warrior Nagaland, have recently spurred a notable shift in community attitudes towards wildlife Conservation.

“This is a crucial moment for Pujenvong Council and the Chinese Pangolin,” stated Pungro Students’ Union. “The cooperation of the village councils will be the most powerful deterrent against poachers. This ban not only protects an endangered species but also reinforces our community's commitment to preserving our natural heritage.” 

Pungro is a home to the Fakim Wildlife Sanctuary and sits near the rich biodiversity of the Saramati mountain range, making it a critical habitat for several endangered species, including the Pangolin. The local administration is now focused on engaging community enforcement bodies and increasing patrols to ensure strict compliance with the new regulations.

The move by Pujenvong Council follows similar community-led conservation resolutions passed in other Naga-inhabited areas, setting a strong precedent for wildlife protection across the broader region. “Conservationists are hopeful that this local action will inspire other divisions to follow suit and help break the illegal trafficking network of the threatened species.”

Pujenvong Council consisting of four village councils has appreciated the Wildlife Trust of India, (WTI) & Eco Warriors Nagaland for the conservation initiatives.