Northeast India accounts for only about 8 per cent of the country's total land area, yet it is home to approximately 24 per cent of India's forests, earning it the moniker "lungs of India".
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Northeast India accounts for only about 8 per cent of the country's total land area, yet it is home to approximately 24 per cent of India's forests, earning it the moniker "lungs of India". The region is a biodiversity hotspot hosting hundreds of flora, fauna and medicinal plants. However, reports of significant forest cover loss caused by reckless human activities like unregulated timber trade, illegal logging, deforestation, urbanisation, illegal wildlife trade and hunting are a matter of grave concern that require immediate attention and remedial measures. Many animal and plant species in the region have either gone extinct or are facing existential threats today. For instance, the Sumatran rhinoceros (Dicerorhinus sumatrensis), which once roamed the forests of several northeastern states, including Nagaland, Assam and Manipur, had reportedly disappeared by the late 1990s. Reason? Poaching and loss of habitat, besides global warming, which continue to pose a threat to the region's rich wildlife. The declining population of the hornbill bird in Nagaland, a cultural icon for the Nagas and the namesake of the state's famous Hornbill Festival, also reflects the consequences of human irresponsibility and destructive practices like killing of the bird for its feathers to use in the headgears. Some may argue that hunting is part of their tradition, but is there any society that hasn't engaged in it at some point? Hunting was once essential for survival, but that is no longer the case. Any activities, be it hunting or deforestation, that will impact the ecosystem must be halted.
The declining wildlife population and plant species in the Northeast have made World Wildlife Day even more apt. Observed annually on March 3, this occasion aims to raise awareness about the importance of conserving biodiversity and protecting nature for future generations and human survival. The theme for this year is “Medicinal and Aromatic Plants: Conserving Health, Heritage and Livelihoods”, drawing attention to the importance such plant species hold in public health, modern medicine, economic security and ecological sustainability. Home to hundreds of plant species with medicinal value, the Northeast is sitting on a wealth of resources. This storehouse of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants (MAPs) has yet to be commercially exploited. Cultivating these plants can enhance the economy and improve the living standards of the people in the region. However, overharvesting to meet the growing demand for such plants in the global herbal medicine market will be counterproductive and put such species at risk. Habitat degradation and climate change can exacerbate risks. So, the key lies in sustainable harvesting practices and collective effort to safeguard natural habitats. Disruption of food chains, be it animal or plant species, will result in ecological imbalance, which will have a far-reaching effect on all living organisms.