Kohima, May 23: The Nagaland State Biodiversity Board (NSBB), in collaboration with the Peren Forest Division under the Department of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (DEFCC), observed the International Day for Biological Diversity 2026 at St. Xavier College, Jalukie.

Addressing the programme as special guest, Principal Secretary, DEFCC, and Chairman of NSBB, Y. Kikheto Sema called upon citizens to adopt a “no plastic” lifestyle to help protect biodiversity. He also urged young people to act as ambassadors of nature conservation.

Sema expressed concern over reports indicating a loss of 235 square kilometres of forest cover in Nagaland between 2019 and 2023. He, however, noted the State’s potential for eco-tourism through biodiversity conservation and the preservation of Naga culture.

As part of the observance, the Peren Forest Division organised a three-day programme featuring painting and essay competitions, afforestation drives, and awareness campaigns on environmental protection.