The Department of Environment, Forest & Climate Change took a historic step by organizing the first-ever "Run for Hornbill: Against Time" on December 4, 2023, starting from Green Park and culminating at Nagaland Zoological Park, Rangapahar. The run, spanning a distance of 6km, commenced with enthusiasm and concluded with a commitment to protect the endangered Hornbill species.      

Minister of Environment, Forest & Climate Change, C L John, commended the department and participants for their dedication to Hornbill conservation. Expressing concern over habitat loss and hunting, he urged a shift towards using replica feathers, emphasizing the need for environmental preservation.

Commissioner & Secretary, Y Kiheto Sema, stressed the unique significance of Hornbill feathers in Naga society and highlighted the declining Hornbill population. He urged a ban on the use of original feathers, emphasizing the need to preserve old-growth trees for nesting and adopting conservation practices.         

The event concluded with the distribution of prizes by IFS, DFO, Wokha Forest Division, Suman W M Sivachar. Winners in various categories, including female, male, oldest, and youngest participants, were recognized for their commitment to the cause, receiving certificates and appreciation.    

The event also witnessed the release of the "Birds of Nagaland Pocket Guide" by Kiheto and dignitaries, followed by visits to stalls and the Hornbill enclosures at NZP.

Keynote addresses by IFS, Principal Chief Conservator of Forest & Head of Forest Force, Dharmendra Prakash, and IFS, PCCF & Chief Wildlife Warden, Vedpal Singh, underscored the significance of Hornbill conservation.

                                                                                                (Tovikali, IA Chumoukedima)