Stressing the vital role of local communities in wildlife conservation, the Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) of Daying Ering Memorial Wildlife Sanctuary (DEMWS) has said that sustained public support is essential to protect the sanctuary’s rich biodiversity and unlock its eco-tourism potential.
Addressing a community awareness programme at Sika Tode village, DEMWS DFO Ms Kempi Ete said the sanctuary near Pasighat in Arunachal Pradesh holds immense promise for eco-tourism, which could significantly improve the livelihoods of fringe-area communities if wildlife protection efforts are strengthened.
The programme, aimed at deterring wildlife crimes, was organised by the local Community Surveillance and Monitoring Team (CSMT) with support from biodiversity conservation organisation Aaranyak.
“Use cameras, not guns. Capture the sanctuary’s magnificent wildlife and share it on social media to attract nature lovers. This will help promote eco-tourism in fringe villages,” Ms Ete said, adding that community participation is indispensable as only 40–50 forest personnel are currently deployed to safeguard the sanctuary.
She urged villagers to remain vigilant against hunting—especially of birds—and unregulated illegal fishing, warning that all wildlife species are protected under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, amended in 2022. Any violation, she said, could invite stringent punishment and adversely affect the future employment prospects of youths charged under the Act.
Ms Ete also appreciated Aaranyak’s initiative in forming CSMTs to generate grassroots support for preventing wildlife crimes in the sanctuary.
Addressing the gathering, Dr Jimmy Borah, Deputy Director of Aaranyak’s Legal and Advocacy Division, said the organisation would continue to support conservation efforts through CSMTs. “Local communities stand to gain the most when eco-tourism flourishes around the sanctuary,” he noted.
Echoing this view, Ms Ivy Farheen Hussain, Senior Project Officer of Aaranyak, said illegal hunting offers only short-term gains, while eco-tourism can bring sustainable benefits for years. Assistant Project Officer Bijeet Baro supported the programme through digital documentation.
CSMT Anchalghat president Tatem Jamoh highlighted the need for regular awareness programmes to ensure continued community involvement. His views were echoed by Maksam Tayeng, Honorary Wildlife Warden of East Siang district and Chairman of the CSMT and Eco-Development Committee, who said improved protection measures would also generate employment opportunities for local residents.
The programme was also addressed by Zila Parishad Member Ms Annu Paboh Komut, Range Officer Nalo Tasing, CSMT coordinator Okii Modi, village heads, Gaon Burahs and other community representatives.