126 species recorded at 3-day Namdapha Butterfly Festival

Dibrugarh: The Namdapha National Park and Tiger Reserve authority, in collaboration with conservation organisations and local communities, successfully hosted the 8th Namdapha Butterfly Festival from Nov 26 to 28 at Khachang village in Changlang district, Arunachal Pradesh.The three-day event brought together butterfly enthusiasts, conservationists and community members to promote environmental awareness and strengthen biodiversity protection in the eastern Himalayas.Although the butterfly season was nearing its end, participants documented an impressive 126 species, offering valuable insights into the rich diversity of Namdapha National Park and Tiger Reserve.The festival drew participants from across India — including Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, West Bengal, and Assam — alongside representatives from leading institutions such as the Wildlife Institute of India, Rajiv Gandhi University, Mizoram University, and the Ashoka Trust for Research in Ecology and the Environment.“The success of this event marks an important step forward in promoting long-term, community-driven conservation efforts in one of India’s most ecologically significant landscapes,” said N Tam, principal chief conservator of forests, who attended as chief guest.Local participation was central to the festival’s success. Youth organisations, including the Khachang-Maithingpum Youth Forum, New Yumchum Youth Association, and Miao Singpho Ramma Hpung, collaborated with educational institutions such as Kendriya Vidyalaya Miao and the North Eastern Regional Institute of Science and Technology. Local self-help groups and homestays provided hospitality to visiting guests, creating economic opportunities while promoting sustainable tourism.The inaugural session featured vibrant cultural performances by the Singpho, Longchang, and Tikhak communities, highlighting the deep connection between cultural heritage and conservation values. Deputy commissioner Vishal Sah and Gaon Burahs from Kachang, New Yumchum, and Maithungpung villages were also present.