The Himali Conservation Forum, an organization dedicated to environmental protection, has announced a plan to spend nearly NPR 2 crore on Red Panda conservation efforts in Taplejung for the current fiscal year. The allocated budget will fund various initiatives aimed at preserving this endangered species.
According to Ramesh Rai, the Program Coordinator at Himali Conservation Forum, a budget of NPR 1,92,55,833 has been set aside for 41 programs, with support from the Red Panda Network. This budget will cover salaries, office operations, research and monitoring, education and awareness, sustainable livelihood initiatives, and the promotion of eco-tourism.
The Forum has been actively involved in Red Panda conservation in areas including Fungling Municipality. Planned activities include refresher training for forest guardians, re-mapping of monitoring blocks, regular surveillance, monitoring of illegal poaching and trade in community forests, procurement of necessary equipment, and publication of a Red Panda bulletin.
To raise awareness about Red Panda conservation, the Forum also plans to introduce local curricula in schools located in key Red Panda habitats. Additional efforts will include distributing conservation awards, establishing awareness boards, producing documentaries, printing posters and pamphlets, and constructing nurseries to grow plants that serve as food for Red Pandas.
In a significant move, an aerial wildlife corridor will be constructed in the Pathibhara region this year. This initiative is expected to bring a new dimension to conservation efforts. The Forum is also launching programs to promote Allo fabric weaving, tailoring, and technology transfer. Solar sets will be distributed to those living in remote areas, and efforts will be made to manage Red Panda habitats, conduct baseline surveys, and enhance the facilities at the Himalayan Habre Center.
Chief of the District Coordination Committee and Chairman of the Advisory Committee, Chiring Lama, emphasized the importance of collaborating with all local governments to protect the endangered Red Panda. He highlighted the need for coordination and partnership to overcome the challenges of conservation.
The conservation of Red Pandas in Taplejung is seen not only as the preservation of the district’s natural heritage but also as a vital contribution to the livelihoods of local communities and the promotion of eco-tourism. According to a survey conducted in 2013 (2070 B.S.), there are an estimated 134 Red Pandas in Taplejung, as per the data held by the Himali Conservation Forum.
