The implementation of the NFMP-JICA Project has delivered transformative outcomes—reviving degraded ecosystems, boosting rural livelihoods, and strengthening village infrastructure. The collaborative efforts of JFMCs, SHGs, and government departments have established a powerful, scalable model of participatory forest management. By harmonizing ecological restoration with socio-economic resilience, NFMP–JICA has reignited hope across Nagaland. Its success has earned national recognition, including the prestigious SKOCH Award 2024, as a leading example of community-led forestry.

As part of the mid-term review, officials from JICA India — Ms. Ishikawa Saya, Representative, and Ms. Sushma Sen Adarshi, Development Specialist — visited Mokokchung Division on May 13–14, 2025. They were accompanied by Shri Temjenyapang, IFS, Chief Conservator of Forests (NFMP, Project Director); Smt. Rongsenlemla, IFS, Conservator of Forests (NTC); and Project consultants led by Shri Pravanjan PravanjanMohapatra,Team leader.

On May 13th, the visiting team was welcomed at Merangkong village. The Merangkong JFMC presented a brief presentation on the activities taken up under the project. During the visit, the SHGs of Merangkong village showcased their ongoing work and achievements, highlighting the various IGA (income-generating activities) and skill development efforts undertaken as part of the project. The JICA Team interacted closely with the SHGs & JFMC members and appreciated their work and was impressed with their progress. The JICA Team encouraged them to make effective and sustainable use of the resources provided and continue strengthening their efforts.

 The JICA Team also visited the treatment site – JAF – and highly appreciated the positive outcomes seen in the growth of the various tree species planted at the site – Duabanga Grandiflora, Ailanthus altissima, Choerospondias axillaris, Phoebe sp., etc.

On May 14th, the JICA Team headed to Aliba village & visited the EPA& WHS Convergence implemented under NFMP project (JICA Assisted Project). The JICA Team remarked on the convergence efforts made by the community and various departments on being a flagship activity under NFMP, which has greatly benefitted more than 100 households.

The JICA Team also visited Chungtia village and inspected the JFMC Nursery, WHS & EPA, and had interactions with JFMCs & SHGs on their challenges faced in the project. The team also inspected the accounts and other registers maintained by the JFMC.

During the visit to Aliba & Chungtai Village, the JICA team had a brief discussion with SHGs members regarding their progress and future plans. The main activity taken up by the SHGs is piggery and poultry, owing to cost-effectiveness and a higher profit margin, making it more suitable for the local community. All the SHGs of Aliba & Chungtia have successfully completed their first cycle, and the next business plan has already been processed.

The Mokokchung Forest Division successfully restored 4968 Ha across 14 villages through the five models (JAF/JFF/JCF/JCC/PEC), comprising 1059.313 Ha under productive models (JAF/JFF/JCF) and 3910.27 Ha under conservation models (JCC/PEC), planting 9.98.984 saplings (2020-2024).During 2025 it will cover an additional area of 165 ha under productive models (JAF/JFF/JCF) and 1124 ha under conservation models (JCC/PEC), planting 2,20,767 saplings. There are 42 SHGs formed up upto the Batch-3 villages. All the 42 SHGs have completed the 1st cycle of activity, 22 SHGs are in the 2nd cycle, 14 SHGs are in the process of starting the 3rd cycle, and 6 SHGs are in the 3rd cycle of activity. Ecological Gains:

• 4,968 Ha restored (14 villages):

⚬ 78.7% under conservation (JCC/PEC)

⚬ 9.98 lakh saplings planted (2020–24)

⚬ 2.20 lakh targeted for 2025

⚬ Forest Cover Increase: +14.88 sq km

⚬ 46.97 sq km → Moderately Dense Forest (MDF)

⚬ 31.55 sq km scrub rehabilitated

 Conclusively, the visiting team thank the host division for the well-planned inspection itinerary and acknowledges the successful implementation of the project activity (forestry intervention, community development, livelihood improvement plans, record keeping & documentation, etc.).

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