Kohima: Nagaland Chief Minister Dr Neiphiu Rio officially launched the Enhancing Landscape and Ecosystem Management (ELEMENT) Nagaland Project at the Chief Minister’s Secretariat in Kohima, marking a major milestone in the state’s commitment to sustainable forest and landscape restoration.
Funded by the World Bank–International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD), the five-year initiative will be implemented across 225 villages in 16 districts. The project is being spearheaded by the Society for Climate Resilient Agriculture in Nagaland (SoCRAN) under the Agriculture Production Commissioner Cell (APC Cell).
Speaking at the launch, CM Rio emphasized the ecological and cultural importance of Nagaland’s forests, which cover only 2.1% of India’s geographical area but play a vital role in sustaining livelihoods, preserving tribal traditions, and providing essential ecological services. He warned that climate change, shifting cultivation, and erosion of natural resources have increased vulnerability among rural communities.
“The ELEMENT project is not just a conservation effort—it is a holistic intervention to restore landscapes, enhance livelihoods, and ensure inclusive development,” Rio stated. He called for active participation from women and marginalized groups in governance and enterprise development, and urged collaboration among state agencies, research institutions, NGOs, and local communities.
World Bank Lead Environment Specialist Dinesh Aryal reiterated the institution’s support for sustainable forest management in Nagaland, stressing the need for early budget planning and the appointment of a dedicated project director to ensure timely implementation.
Project Director Kumar Ramnikant described ELEMENT as a timely response to declining forest cover, soil erosion, and climate impacts. He emphasized that communities would be central partners in the restoration process, not just beneficiaries.
Chief Secretary Sentiyanger Imchen, in his keynote address, underscored the importance of effective execution, timely completion, and community engagement for the project’s success.
The launch event also featured the unveiling of the ELEMENT logo and was attended by Agriculture Advisor Mhathung Yanthan, senior government officials, and representatives from various departments.
