The Wildlife Warden, Doyang Wildlife Division, Jongponglemba, has issued a strict order banning Trade and Hunting of wild animals and birds, a violation punishable under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.

The order, dated 13th October, stated that the Government of Nagaland adopted the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 on 18th December 1981. Therefore, hunting of wild animals or birds within the territorial jurisdiction of Nagaland is strictly prohibited except in cases specified under the Act.

The order also stated that in the interest of protecting and conserving the wildlife population of Wokha, Mokokchung & Zunheboto districts, the Doyang Wildlife Division, under the Department of Environment, Forests & Climate Change, Government of Nagaland, ordered to all concerned to strictly adhere on the ban on trading and hunting of wild animals and birds.

The order further stated that Amur Falcons are protected under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, and informed that hunting, trapping, killing or selling of Amur Falcons for food or possession or otherwise is a criminal offence, punishable up to seven years of imprisonment or with ₹ 25,000/- fine or both under Section 9 & 51 of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.

The prohibition stated that any person or group of persons acting in violation of the above order shall be liable to be prosecuted under the relevant sections of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.

(Tansumong, IA Mokokchung)