Imphal: The Poumai Naga tribe of Purul village in Manipur’s Senapati district has taken a significant step towards wildlife conservation by banning hunting, trapping, and killing of wild animals and birds within their territory.
In a general body meeting organized recently at Purul village by the Purul (Hiimai) Union, the tribe also resolved to designate a portion of their forest as a conservation reserve.
To further protect their environment, the tribe has prohibited forest fires and other harmful activities in and around the village and forests.
The Poumai Naga tribe, numbering around 7000, has adopted these measures in accordance with the Manipur Wild Life Protection Act, 1972. To enforce these rules, the Purul Union has announced fines for violators.
Individuals found setting or starting fires in the forest will be fined Rs 60,000. Those caught hunting wild animals or birds will face a fine of Rs 20,000, with hunting tools and weapons seized. The use of batteries, dynamite, chemicals, or explosives for fishing is strictly prohibited.
Outsiders caught hunting or killing wildlife within the jurisdiction of Purul village will also be fined Rs 20,000 and their tools or weapons will be confiscated. Informers who report violations will be rewarded with half of the fine collected.
The Poumai Naga tribe’s initiative serves as a commendable example of community-driven conservation efforts in Manipur.
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By protecting their forests and wildlife, the tribe is contributing to the overall biodiversity of the region and setting a positive example for other communities to follow.
