Kohima, Apr 26: Nagaland Minister for Environment, Forest & Climate Change and Village Guards, CL John, inaugurated a Forest Beat Office at Khezhakeno village in Phek district on Thursday.

Addressing the gathering, the Minister said the office would serve as the first line of defense against forest fires, illegal activities, poaching, and other threats to the forest ecosystem in the area.

He also appealed to the people of Khezhakeno and neighbouring villages to cooperate with the Forest Department in protecting and preserving the region’s natural resources.