Deep within the lush forests of Nagaland’s Peren district, a small village has made global conservation history. The people of Bamsiakilwa village have officially declared the Daukeling Hebamlo Community Conserved Area (CCA), a protected forest landscape dedicated to safeguarding the elusive Asiatic Golden cat, one of Asia’s least studied and most threatened wild cats.

According to a report in the Nagaland Post, conservationists are recognising the initiative as the world’s first Community Conserved Area created specifically for the protection of the Asiatic Golden cat, marking a landmark moment not only for Nagaland but for wildlife conservation across the globe.

The declaration ceremony brought together conservationists, forest officials, village elders and local residents, all united by a common mission that is protecting forests, wildlife and future generations.

The event was inaugurated by Dr. C. Zupeni Tsanglai, Wildlife Warden of the Dimapur division, who unveiled a monolith and statue of the Asiatic Golden cat to commemorate the historic initiative.

A Rare Wild Cat Finds Guardians

The Asiatic Golden cat remains one of the most mysterious wild cats found in Asia’s forests. Known for its striking coat colours and elusive behaviour, the species faces mounting threats from habitat destruction, hunting and increasing human disturbance.

For the people of Bamsiakilwa, however, the cat is more than just a rare animal, it is now a symbol of pride, responsibility and ecological balance. Village chairman Pauka urged the community to stop hunting and actively protect the Asiatic Golden cat along with other wildlife species living within the forest ecosystem. Community leaders also pledged to enforce strict conservation measures, including bans on hunting and disturbances to wildlife inside the conserved area.

Conservation Powered by Community Leadership

The Daukeling Hebamlo CCA was made possible through a collaboration between the Bamsiakilwa (Hebamlo) community, the Eastern Himalayas Marbled Cat Project (EHMCP), and the Small Wild Cat Conservation Foundation (SWCCF). 

The partnership aims to strengthen long-term habitat protection while promoting sustainable community stewardship of forests and wildlife. Conservationists believe this unique model, combining traditional governance with scientific conservation practices, could inspire similar grassroots conservation efforts across India and beyond.

Forests That Protect Both Wildlife and People

Speaking at the event, Dr. Tsanglai emphasised that conserving forests is not only about protecting wildlife but also about ensuring human survival and climate resilience. She highlighted how healthy forests provide clean air, freshwater, ecological balance and protection against climate change.

Her message resonated deeply in a region where communities have depended on forests for generations. The declaration of the conservation area sends a strong signal that local communities are ready to take ownership of environmental protection and biodiversity conservation.