Digital Tree Guide Initiative unveiled at State Botanical Garden

DIMAPUR — A social work-cum-Digital Tree Guide Initiative launch programme was held on Monday at the State Botanical Garden, Aradurah Hill, New Ministers' Hill, Kohima.

The event highlighted the Digital Tree Guide Initiative, designed to help individuals easily identify and learn about local trees, thereby enhancing ecological awareness and appreciation. A press release described it as Nagaland’s first digital botanical garden.

Conservator of Forests Rongsenlemla Imchen, speaking about the history and objectives of the botanical garden, which was established to facilitate in-situ and ex-situ conservation of endangered species, stated that it serves as a centre of excellence and provides recreational opportunities for visitors.

She discussed Nagaland's unique landscape and rich biodiversity, as well as traditional management practices upheld over generations. Imchen also highlighted the garden's potential for interactive learning through high technology, such as QR codes, and encouraged staff to document traditional management methods to sustain biodiversity.

She reminded attendees that the botanical garden, the only one in the state, is vital for scientific research and aesthetic appreciation, urging collective responsibility for its upkeep.

Jiang Konyak, Forester I, engaged eco club students in a QR code demonstration activity alongside their teachers.

In her closing remarks, Y Wanshom, Forester I, expressed gratitude to the teachers and eco club students from Government High School, Forest Colony, for their enthusiastic participation. She also extended appreciation to the Department of Agriculture for providing the necessary tools and implements to maintain the botanical garden.

Chaired by Florence T Sangtam, Range Forest Officer, the programme began with an invocation by Sunep Imsong, Forester I.

In his welcome address, Chisayi, silviculturist and Divisional Forest Officer, Kohima, commended the staff from the Silviculture Division and expressed gratitude to the Conservator of Forests (Research Planning and Utilisation and Northern Territorial Circle) for her motivation and support in developing the botanical garden.

He emphasised the importance of eco club students as representatives of nature enthusiasts, urging them to deepen their environmental knowledge.