The awareness and sensitization programme-cum-official launch of the Khonoma Community-Based Sustainable Waste Management System (KCSWMS) was successfully held at Khonoma village on Saturday, marking a significant milestone in the village’s ongoing commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable waste management.
The programme was organized under the Forest and Biodiversity Management in the Himalaya (Nagaland) Project (FBMP) and brought together government officials, project functionaries, community leaders, church representatives, youth organizations, students and village residents.
The programme commenced with a Bible reading and invocation by Vibilie Chase, Pastor, Baptist Church Khonoma, followed by the welcome address delivered by Kovi Meyase, NCS, Commissioner & Secretary to the Government of Nagaland and Team Leader, NEPED.
In his address, he highlighted the importance of community ownership and active public participation in ensuring sustainable environmental management. He emphasized that effective waste management is fundamental to protecting Khonoma’s rich natural heritage while promoting cleaner and healthier living conditions.
The programme was chaired by Viriatsü Meyase, President, KSU, who appreciated the collective efforts of all stakeholders in making the initiative a reality.
An overview of the Khonoma Community-Based Sustainable Waste Management System was presented by Dr Kezevituo Metha, POU, NEPED and PIA In-charge, who explained the objectives, and long-term vision of the system. He stated that the initiative aims to establish an efficient, community-driven mechanism for waste segregation, collection, processing, and responsible disposal while encouraging behavioural change towards sustainable waste management practices.
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Special Guest, Sidramappa M Chalkapure, IFS, Chief Conservator of Forests (Planning & Development) and Project Director, FBMP in his speech lauded the people of Khonoma for their continued leadership in community conservation and environmental stewardship. He emphasized that sustainable waste management is an essential component of biodiversity conservation and climate resilience, adding that successful implementation depends on strong community participation and local ownership. He encouraged the community to maintain the momentum and serve as a model for other villages across Nagaland.
The highlight of the programme was the official launch of the Khonoma Community-Based Sustainable Waste Management System (KCSWMS), followed by an on-site demonstration showcasing the various components and operational processes of the system.
The initiative is being implemented under the Forest and Biodiversity Management in the Himalaya (Nagaland) Project (FBMP) co-financed by the Federal Government of Germany through KfW. The project is jointly implemented by the Department of Environment, Forests & Climate Change (DEFCC), Government of Nagaland, and the Nagaland Empowerment of People through Economic Development (NEPED).
FBMP seeks to strengthen community conservation efforts by protecting forests and biodiversity, enhancing ecological connectivity, and promoting sustainable livelihood opportunities for forest-dependent communities. Covering 64 villages across Peren, Kohima, Wokha, Mokokchung, and Tuensang districts, the project supports Community Conserved Areas through improved natural resource management, biodiversity conservation, eco-tourism promotion, and climate-resilient development initiatives.
