JICA Reaffirms Partnership with Nagaland 

• The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) has reaffirmed its commitment to partner with Nagaland in conserving the State’s rich biodiversity. 
  • Nagaland, located in the Indo-Burma biodiversity hotspot, is home to rare and endangered species and unique ecosystems that are increasingly threatened by deforestation, shifting cultivation, and climate change.
• JICA has already been supporting biodiversity projects in the Northeast, focusing on sustainable forest management, eco-restoration, and community-based conservation. 
• In Nagaland, the agency is working closely with the State government, local communities, and forest-dependent groups to integrate conservation with livelihood security.
• Key areas of collaboration include:
  • Forest ecosystem restoration through afforestation and eco-restoration drives.
  • Capacity building of community institutions and forest officials.
    Alternative livelihoods to reduce dependence on shifting cultivation.
  • Awareness campaigns to integrate traditional knowledge with modern conservation practices.
• Officials highlighted that Nagaland’s biodiversity is not only vital for ecological balance but also forms the foundation of the cultural and economic identity of its people. 
• With JICA’s continued support, the State aims to strengthen its conservation efforts while promoting sustainable development and resilience to climate change.

With reference to the partnership between JICA (Japan International Cooperation Agency) and Nagaland for biodiversity conservation, consider the following statements:

1. JICA is collaborating with Nagaland for biodiversity conservation as the State lies in the Indo-Burma biodiversity hotspot.
2. The initiative includes restoration of forest ecosystems, capacity building, and promotion of alternative livelihoods.
3. The programme excludes local community participation and is solely managed by the State Forest Department.
4. JICA has previously supported biodiversity and forest management projects in other parts of Northeast India.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 1, 2 and 4 only

(c) 2, 3 and 4 only

(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

Answer: (b)