Darchula: Officials from related sectors in Nepal and India have pledged to intensify their efforts to combat the smuggling of biodiversity resources, including plants and wildlife, while boosting conservation initiatives in the hilly districts of Sudurpaschim Province and the bordering regions of India. The commitments were made during a bilateral meeting organized by the Api Nampa Conservation Area Office, Darchula, with support from the National Trust for Nature Conservation and the Shuklaphanta Conservation Programme.
According to National News Agency Nepal, participants at the meeting emphasized the necessity for enhanced collaboration and coordination in forest and wildlife conservation efforts. Both countries agreed to adopt innovative information systems to monitor and counter the illegal trade of timber and medicinal herbs in border areas and to enhance protection for wildlife and livestock.
The meeting highlighted the importance of strengthening information exchange between Nepal and India on biodiversity conservation and establishing local mechanisms to identify and monitor groups involved in the illegal transit and trade of medicinal plants and wildlife. Training programs for frontline forest personnel engaged in conservation work were also prioritized for discussion.
Ashutosh Singh, Chief of the Forest Office of Pithoragarh Division in Uttarakhand, India, presented a working paper during the meeting, focusing on wildlife conservation, management, and cross-border challenges. He emphasized the need for cooperation and the establishment of necessary mechanisms between the two nations to protect biodiversity and maintain ecological balance.
Binaya Kumar Jha, Warden of the Api Nampa Conservation Area Office, expressed concerns about the increasing threats to biodiversity from smuggling, overexploitation of natural resources, and climate change impacts. He underscored the importance of cooperation and collaboration among all concerned bodies to address these challenges effectively.
The meeting also reviewed the current biodiversity status within the Api Nampa Conservation Area, covering regions such as Tinker, Byas, Changrung, Gunji Stream, and Dumling, and discussed ongoing efforts for forest and plant conservation in these areas.