27 trainees complete six-month forest guard training at SEFTI Dimapur

DIMAPUR — The State Environment and Forestry Training Institute (SEFTI), Dimapur, conducted the convocation ceremony of the 44th batch of forest guard trainees on November 6. The six-month induction training course, which commenced on April 22, concluded on November 5.

The special guest for the occasion was Vedpal Singh, principal chief conservator of forests and head of the the forest force, Nagaland, Kohima, according to an update.

In his address, he lauded the efforts of SEFTI and emphasised that the knowledge and skills gained during the training must be applied effectively at the field level for improved forest management and environmental protection. He added that as local recruits, the forest guards are well placed to suggest and implement innovative initiatives at the grassroots level.

The 44th batch comprised 27 trainees, including seven women, one of the highest female representations in any forest guard batch in Nagaland to date.

The training curriculum covered diverse modules, including forest laws, wildlife management, silviculture, forestry, and environmental studies, along with practical components such as a one-week arms training at Nagaland Police Training School, Chümoukedima, and participation in the Independence Day ceremonial parade at DDSC Stadium, Dimapur.

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At the ceremony, trainees were conferred with certificates based on their overall performance. Four trainees received Certificates of Honours, 18 trainees received Higher Standard Certificates, and the rest were awarded Certificates of Completion.

Shetsunuo Rutso emerged as the academic topper of the batch, while Imtitula was declared the best overall performer. Vilakiezo received the Spirit of the Batch Award for his exemplary conduct, leadership, and professional integrity.

The event was attended by Rongsenlemla Imchen, conservator of forests (RPU), Dimapur; Beizo Sukhoire, divisional forest officer, Dimapur; and Zupeni Tsangai, director, Nagaland Zoological Park, Dimapur, along with several senior officers of the department.

Rajesh Kumar, director, SEFTI, presented the training report highlighting the diverse academic, field, and outreach activities undertaken by the trainees during the six-month course.