Orientation workshop prepares new Honorary Wildlife Wardens to guard Arunachal's flora and fauna

Itanagar: A one-day orientation workshop for the newly appointed Honorary Wildlife Wardens and members of the State Board for Wildlife was organized on Wednesday in Arunachal Pradesh's Itanagar to familiarize them with their roles and responsibilities in biodiversity conservation.

PCCF (WL&BD)-cum-Chief Wildlife Warden Nyilyang Tam urged all new members to perform their duties diligently and actively contribute to the protection and preservation of Arunachal Pradesh’s rich flora and fauna.

The PCCF also distributed copies of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, to the newly appointed members and advised them to follow the rules and regulations under the Act.

Conservator of Forests Millo Tasser gave a detailed presentation on the roles and responsibilities of the Honorary Wildlife Wardens and Board members, and briefed them on various protected areas and community-conserved areas in Arunachal Pradesh.

CF Tasser also outlined the distinct roles of Honorary Wildlife Wardens and the State Board for Wildlife.

He explained that Honorary Wildlife Wardens assist the Chief Wildlife Warden as subordinates and are deemed public servants under Section 21 of the Indian Penal Code (45 of 1860), as per Section 59 of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.

They are protected against actions taken in good faith under Section 60 of the Act.

They also have the power to inspect license records under Section 47(b), read with recent amendments, and have authority for entry, search, seizure, and detention under Section 50 of the Act to prevent and detect offences.

The CF added that members of the State Board for Wildlife primarily focus on policymaking in wildlife-related matters.

Scientist-in-Charge at the Zoological Survey of India, Dr. Shantabala Gurumayum, presented an overview of Arunachal Pradesh’s faunal diversity, while Scientist-in-Charge at the Botanical Survey of India, Dr. Krishna Chowlo, gave a presentation on the state’s floral diversity.

The orientation workshop concluded with a vote of thanks from Tajum Yomcha of the Wildlife Division, PCCF Wildlife.