The two-day launching workshop of the Resource Organization on Jhum and Biodiversity (ROJB), organized by the Nagaland Forest Management Project, concluded with a valedictory function at Hotel Acacia, Dimapur, on September 24, 2025.

Held under the theme “Northeastern Regional Workshop on Jhum Management and Ecological Stewardship,” the programme brought together experts, officials, and stakeholders to deliberate on sustainable Jhum practices, ecological conservation, and livelihoods in Nagaland.

Livelihood Expert, ROJB, Dr. Aosanen Ao, presented a comprehensive summary of the workshop, highlighting key discussions, insights, and the way forward for Jhum management and biodiversity conservation.

Delivering the closing remarks, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF) & Chief Wildlife Warden, Nagaland, Vedpal Singh, IFS, stressed the importance of credible, evidence-based research to inform policies on jhum practices. He urged ROJB to undertake meta-analysis and generate substantive research outputs to influence decision-makers and ensure recognition of the sustainability of traditional practices.

Singh further encouraged the organization to set clear and impactful goals that translate into meaningful, transformative work on the ground.

The valedictory session was compered by Community Mobilization Expert, ROJB, Dr. Imnuksungla Pongen. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by CEO, ROJB, Dr. Prabhat Kumar, IFS, who expressed gratitude to the participants, experts, and stakeholders for their active engagement.

(I.Tiakumla.Ao IA Dimapur)