GREEN MINUTE NEWS:
A Chinese pangolin was found in a paddy field in the Kamjong district, Manipur recently. Recognizing the species from the signages, a farmer immediately alerted the state Forest Department. Identified as a juvenile ‘Critically endangered’ Chinese pangolin, the animal was later released back into the wild.
In an effort to raise public awareness about pangolins and the urgent need for their conservation, the Wildlife Trust of India (WTI) supported by Wildlife Conservation Network’s Pangolin Crisis Fund and in partnership with the Kamjong Forest Department has installed awareness signages about pangolins in the local market.
Pangolins are the world’s most trafficked species in the world. India is home to the Indian pangolin (IUCN status- Endangered) and Chinese pangolin (IUCN status-Critically endangered). Both species are listed under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 and included in Appendix I of CITES.
These shy, scaly mammals are targeted for consumption and traditional Chinese medicine which has led to a massive population decline in Asia. In the picture below, one can see how these gentle mammals are traded in a Chinese wet market.
Further, the presence of illegal wet markets where wildlife is openly sold, the porosity of international borders, and local economic factors create a favorable environment for illegal wildlife trade and other criminal activities. Reports have confirmed that Manipur also serves as a temporary holding facility for exotic animals that are further traded within India and abroad.
Despite efforts by wildlife authorities to combat the illegal trade, pangolin smuggling continues to thrive due to its lucrative nature. Manipur, inhabited by diverse ethnic groups with traditional practices that include hunting and consuming wildlife, ranks high in the illegal trade of pangolins and their derivatives.
According to Worthem Hungyo, range forest officer, Kamjong, they were grateful to the farmer for his compassion and for handing over the pangolin. He adds, “Poaching of pangolins or possession and illegal trading of their body parts is a criminal offence leading to imprisonment for 3-7 years. If anybody comes across such incidents, they can reach out to the forest department immediately.”
Chingrisoror Rumthao, Field officer, WTI said, “We are happy to see the signages having a positive impact on the public. By educating people and encouraging community involvement, this initiative seeks to foster a sense of responsibility and urgency in protecting pangolins.”
Further, signages were installed in Ava Market and Hamleikhong, enroute to the Manipur Rifles Camp in Ukhrul. As part of the Countering Pangolin Trafficking project by WTI, a successful ban on hunting pangolins was implemented at the community level across eight villages – Hunpun, Somdal, Chalou, Ngainga and Khuingai (Ukhrul district) & Ngari Khullen, Ngari Khunou and Chatric (Senapati district).