Sets Ambitious Goal for Hornbill Conservation by 2047

Itanagar, India Jul 25, 2026 ALN: In a significant step towards safeguarding one of India’s most iconic groups of birds, over 55 representatives from government agencies, indigenous communities, research institutions, universities, conservation organizations, and civil society have jointly developed a vision and work plan for a State-wide Hornbill Conservation Action Plan. This initiative marks a critical point in the ongoing efforts to protect not only the hornbill species but also the rich biodiversity and cultural heritage associated with these birds in the region.

The initiative sets the ambitious goal of making a thriving “Land for Hornbills by 2047,” reinforcing the state’s commitment to conserving its unique natural and cultural heritage. This long-term vision aligns with broader national and global conservation efforts, as the year 2047 also marks the centenary of India’s independence, making it a symbolically significant target for environmental sustainability and biodiversity conservation.

The state is home to five of India’s nine hornbill species—the Great Hornbill, Wreathed Hornbill, Rufous-necked Hornbill, Austen’s Brown Hornbill, and Oriental Pied Hornbill. Three of these species are globally threatened, while all five are provided the highest level of legal protection under India’s Wildlife (Protection) Act. Hornbills, particularly the Great Hornbill, which is the state bird, hold deep cultural significance for many indigenous communities and are known as ‘farmers of the forest’ for their critical role in dispersing seeds and regenerating forests. This ecological function is vital for maintaining forest health and resilience, making hornbills integral to the ecosystems they inhabit.

Despite nearly 80% of the state’s geographical area being under forest cover, many hornbill populations outside protected areas face increasing threats from habitat degradation, fragmentation, and hunting. The pressures of human encroachment, agricultural expansion, and logging have led to significant habitat loss, which directly impacts hornbill populations and their ability to thrive. Recognizing the need for landscape-scale conservation, the participants agreed on the importance of supporting Indigenous communities to protect their forests, strengthening habitat connectivity, integrating traditional ecological knowledge with scientific research, and fostering long-term partnerships across the state and adjoining transboundary landscapes. This holistic approach acknowledges the interdependence of wildlife conservation and the rights and knowledge of local communities.

The three-day workshop (July 16–18 at the University) was organized by the Nature Conservation Foundation (NCF) in collaboration with APU’s Economics department, the state’s Environment, Forests and Climate Change department, and the Zoo Outreach Organization. The collaborative nature of this workshop highlights the importance of multi-stakeholder engagement in conservation efforts. By bringing together diverse perspectives and expertise, the initiative aims to create a comprehensive and inclusive conservation strategy.

Around 55 participants representing the Forest Department, State Biodiversity Board, community-based organizations, indigenous leaders, researchers, and scientists from RGU, Indian Institute of Science, APU, Ashoka Trust for Environment and Education (ATREE), Wildlife Trust of India (WTI), Community-led Conservation Forum initiated by WWF, alumni of Green Hub, and representatives of Nagaland Forest Department and Nagaland Community-Conserved Areas (CCA) Forum and Aaranyak from Assam collaborated to develop a shared vision and draft action plan. The diverse representation underscores the collaborative spirit necessary for effective conservation, as it combines scientific research, local knowledge, and policy-making.

On the first day, the NCF team provided the foundation for the workshop based on their long-term work on hornbills in the state, followed by perspectives and observations from many forest officials, researchers, and community members. This initial phase set the stage for a constructive dialogue, allowing participants to share insights and experiences related to hornbill conservation and the challenges they face. Over the next two days, through working group discussions, a shared vision and a preliminary action framework were developed. A smaller drafting group will now refine the document, with the first draft expected by September and the final Conservation Action Plan scheduled for completion early next year, providing a roadmap for coordinated conservation action across the state.

The development of this Conservation Action Plan is not just a bureaucratic exercise; it represents a commitment to a sustainable future where both people and wildlife can coexist. “This collaborative Conservation Action Plan would strengthen community-led conservation for hornbills, ensuring that we can all come together to fulfill the vision for the state as a land for hornbills,” said Nature Conservation Foundation Executive Director and IUCN SSC Hornbill Specialist Group Co-Chair senior scientist Dr. Aparajita Datta. This sentiment reflects a growing recognition of the need for conservation strategies that prioritize community involvement and empowerment.

As the action plan moves forward, its implications extend beyond the immediate goal of hornbill conservation. It highlights the necessity of integrating ecological health with economic development, particularly in regions where communities depend on natural resources for their livelihoods. The success of this initiative may serve as a model for similar conservation efforts across India and beyond, demonstrating the potential of collaborative approaches in addressing complex environmental challenges.

Moreover, the conservation of hornbills is intrinsically linked to the preservation of the cultural identities of the indigenous communities that revere these birds. As such, any conservation strategy must be sensitive to the cultural contexts and traditional practices of these communities. This aspect of conservation is increasingly recognized as essential for fostering long-term stewardship of natural resources.

In conclusion, the ambitious goal set forth in the Hornbill Conservation Action Plan reflects a broader commitment to biodiversity conservation, cultural preservation, and sustainable development. As stakeholders continue to refine and implement this plan, the hope is that it will not only lead to the recovery of hornbill populations but also enhance the ecological integrity of the forests they inhabit, benefiting both wildlife and human communities alike. The next few years will be critical in determining the effectiveness of this collaborative effort and its impact on the future of hornbills in India.