OUR CORRESPONDENT
ITANAGAR: Arunachal Pradesh Tourism Minister Nakap Nalo called for a concerted effort from all sections of society to protect hornbills, the state bird, on Thursday. Inaugurating the ninth edition of the Pakke Paga Hornbill Festival (PPHF) at Seijosa in Pakke Kessang district, the minister, while acknowledging the cultural significance of the great hornbill, advocated for a collective effort from all sectors of society to safeguard these exotic and critically endangered birds. The festival, which will culminate on Saturday, will showcase the dedicated efforts towards the conservation of nature and wildlife at Seijosa. The minister hailed the event as a ‘one-of-a-kind festival’ in the state, emphasising the crucial role played by the forest department and local communities in providing a sanctuary for the endangered hornbills.
Highlighting the decline in hornbill numbers and their fragmented distribution, Nalo said that while the state government, particularly the forest department, takes initiatives for a secure forest habitat, the responsibility lies with the common people to contribute to the protection of the species. Speaking about the tourism potential of Seijosa, Nalo pointed out the attractions for visitors from across the country and the world, drawn by the local flora and fauna. He advocated for extending the celebration of festivals like PPHF to other parts of the state, emphasising the duty of Seijosa’s public to lead conservation efforts beyond their region.
Responding to the proposal to declare Seijosa a heritage village, made by local MLA Biyuram Wahge, Nalo extended support for the idea and promised to pursue it at the government level. Nyishi Elite Society (NES) President Professor Tana Showren, in his deliberations, while emphasising the deep-rooted connection between conservation and tribal traditions, advocated for a balanced approach, combining indigenous and scientific methods in conservation practices. Professor Showren stressed the need for sustainable development that does not harm ecosystems and called for the active involvement of youth, local leaders, and the public in biodiversity conservation. Wahge, in his address, underscored that PPHF is not just a festival but also includes academic events such as panel discussions, workshops, and conservation programs. He highlighted the emotional attachment people have to cultural practices and their positive impact on promoting biodiversity conservation.
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