The 50-hectare Nagar Van Meraküm Tzüin (Urban Forest) was officially inaugurated on 3rd December 2025 in Mokokchung Village, marking a significant step in urban biodiversity conservation and environmental education in the region.
Vedpal Singh, IFS, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF) & Head of Forest Force (HOFF) & Chief Wildlife Warden (CWLW), Nagaland graced the occasion as the special guest.
In his inaugural address, the PCCF elaborated on the core objectives of the central Nagar Van scheme. He emphasized that the initiative aims to boost education, raise awareness, and reconnect urban populations with forest ecosystems, addressing the increasing disconnect between humans and nature.
"The success of this project lies in the collaborative effort of the Village and the department," Singh stated, highlighting the model's potential for replication across Nagaland and beyond. He also suggested establishing a monitoring board to track the site's biodiversity status and commended Mokokchung Village for donating the land and the Mokokchung Forest Division for timely execution.
Dr. Sentitula, IFS, DFO Mokokchung Forest Division, provided the keynote address, tracing the project's journey from its inception in July 2023. She detailed the various features of the site, including eco-trails, a QR-coded "Living Lab" for plant information, a Bible theatre, and a Bio-Amphitheatre.
Ajit Kumar Verma, IAS, Deputy Commissioner, Mokokchung lauded the project as "futuristic" and stressed the importance of urban forests amidst current environmental challenges. He urged the Village Council and the Forest Department to develop a sustainable, revenue-generating model for the project’s long-term maintenance, given with limited government resources.
Rongsenlemla, IFS, Conservator of Forest (NTC), called it a "historic day" and explained the objectives behind urban forest development to the gathering. Mapuyanger, Chairman of the Mokokchung Village Council, reiterated the village's commitment to supporting the project following the initial Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).
The ceremony included with an invocation by Rev. Imti, Pastor Mokokchung Baptist Church, a special song by Imnaonen Jamir, and concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Sashilemla, Forest Range Officer, Mokokchung.
(Zuchumo Kithan, IA Mokokchung)
