ZIRO, OCT 4:

The first edition of the Ziro Bird and Butterfly Festival was inaugurated at Saint Claret College (Autonomous), Ziro, on Sunday as part of the 72nd Wildlife Week celebrations.

The four-day festival, initiated by Hapoli Forest Division Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) Tilling Taker in collaboration with local community stakeholders and with the support of Deputy Commissioner Oli Perme, brings together nature enthusiasts, researchers, local leaders and students to promote awareness and conservation of the Ziro Valley’s rich biodiversity.

Following the inaugural programme at Saint Claret College, the festival will move to Pange in the Tale Wildlife Sanctuary for the next three days, featuring field explorations, bird and butterfly monitoring and hands-on conservation activities.

The Hapoli Forest Division is adopting a community-first approach to biodiversity conservation, with emphasis on sustainable, community-led eco-tourism and strengthening frontline conservation efforts across Lower Subansiri district.

During the inaugural programme, Tilling Taker and ADCF Oyang Dusu spoke on the significance of Wildlife Week and the ecological importance of native bird and butterfly species. Sessions were also held on environmental policy by CCF Millo Tasser, IFS; eco-tourism by Tage Kano; bird conservation by Koj Mama; butterfly diversity by Punyo Chada; and reptile awareness by RFO Kime Rambia.

The opening day also featured nature exhibitions, martial arts and boxing demonstrations by Abo Warriors MMA Ziro and the Lower Subansiri Amateur Boxing Association, besides live performances by the Danyi Rilla Group and Tilling Tubin. (DIPR)