The Deputy Commissioner (DC) of Mokokchung, Thsuvisie Phoji, issued an order on October 18, 2024, that all the villages and towns under Mokokchung District shall strictly implement the ban on trade and hunting of wild animals and birds in the area.

Whereas the Govt. of Nagaland has adopted the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, with effect from December 18, 1981, under which the hunting of wild animals and birds within the territorial jurisdiction of Nagaland is strictly prohibited.

And whereas, under the said Act, the only exceptions are vermin (e.g., certain species of rats) or when permission to hunt is accorded under provisions and reasons specified in the Act. Other than which, there are no exceptions either in terms of time or species, and whereas amur falcons are protected under the Wildlife Protection Act 1972.

As such, hunting, trapping, killing, or selling Amur Falcons for food or possession or otherwise is a criminal offence, punishable with up to 3 years of rigorous imprisonment or with a Rs 25,000 fine or both under Section 9&51 of the Wildlife Protection Act 1972. Therefore, appropriate and necessary action shall be initiated against any individual or group found hunting, trapping, killing, or selling Amur falcons for food or possession otherwise.

Now therefore, in compliance with the above government directives and in the interest of protecting and conserving the wildlife population of the district, it is hereby ordered that all the villages and towns under Mokokchung District shall strictly implement the ban on trade and hunting of wild animals and birds in areas under their jurisdiction. Any person or group of persons acting in violation of the above directives shall be liable to be prosecuted under the relevant sections of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.

 (Source: DPRO Mokokchung)