Overview of Wildlife
Wildlife Wing
The Wildlife Wing is responsible for the Conservation & Protection of Wildlife, Management of Protected Areas and Wildlife Habitats across Meghalaya. Its core functions include enforcement of wildlife laws, prevention of poaching and illegal wildlife trade, habitat restoration, conservation of wildlife corridors, and rescue and rehabilitation of wild animals. It also promotes community participation, conservation awareness, eco-tourism, and sustainable livelihood initiatives to strengthen human–wildlife coexistence and long-term ecological security.
The Wildlife Wing is headed by the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife & Biodiversity), who also functions as the Chief Wildlife Warden (CWW) of the State, for the purpose of implementing the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972.
In compliance with the Act, dedicated non-governmental organizations and conservationists interested in wildlife preservation are appointed and empowered as Honorary Wildlife Wardens (HWW) in their respective districts to assist the Chief Wildlife Warden. As per section 36(D) of Wildlife Protection Act 1972, the chairpersons of Community Reserve Management Committee (CRMC) shall serve as Honorary Wildlife Warden for the respective Community Reserve.
Wildlife management and active law enforcement in the State is strategically entrusted to four Divisional Forest Officers.
Wildlife Divisions
There are 4 (Four) Divisions, each headed by a Divisional Forest Officer:
- Divisional Forest Officer of Khasi Hills Division Shillong Ri-Bhoi, East KH, West KH, Eastern West KH & South West Khasi Hills Districts 8426899340
- Divisional Forest Officer of Jaintia Hills Division Jowai East Jaintia Hills & West Jaintia Hills Districts 9436303257
- Divisional Forest Officer of Garo Hills Division Tura East GH, West GH, North GH & South West Garo Hills Districts 9436998680
- Balpakram National Park Baghmara South Garo Hills District 9436114603
Wildlife Wing Adminitrative Map
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State Level Policy Making
State Board for Wildlife
Constituted under Section 6 of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972 (as amended in 2023). Chaired by the Chief Minister, the State Board is the highest policymaking body directing wildlife conservation priorities. The Minister in-charge of Forests serves as Vice-Chairperson, and the Chief Wildlife Warden acts as Member-Secretary.
Functions & Strategic Mandates
The primary mandates of the Wildlife Wing are focused on ensuring ecological stability, habitat protection, and community welfare.
Provide long term ecological security by identifying, protecting, and conserving native flora and fauna.
Protection and Management of National Parks, Wildlife Sanctuaries and Community Reserves of the State.
Sensitize local communities on conservation issues through awareness programmes and involving them in conservation efforts through formation of Community Reserve.
Protection and Conservation of Wildlife and its Habitat outside Protected Areas on participatory mode.
Enhance economic development strategies in fringe villages for their socio-economic upliftment and to reduce their dependency on the Protected Areas(PAs) and wildlife habitats.
Reduce man-animal conflict and rescuing of Wild animals.
Ensure effective control of poaching and illegal trade of wildlife products.
Execute all management activities in Protected Areas through site-specific management plans that adopt an ecosystem approach (or a species-oriented approach where required).
Core Focus & Management Strategies
Discover the key strategic domains representing the active field operations of the Wildlife Wing.
Wildlife Protection and Enforcement
Strengthening wildlife protection through anti-poaching enforcement, prevention of illegal wildlife trade, interdepartmental coordination, and targeted action against hunting and trafficking of endangered species.
Scientific Management
Meghalaya Protected Areas rely on a robust mixture of scientific prescriptions, focusing on conservation needs, habitat requirements, and ecological concerns to ensure wildlife thrives for generations to come. Each Protected Area has a Management Plan.
Awareness and Education
Promoting wildlife conservation awareness through educational programmes, local-language publications, school and college activities, community outreach, Wildlife Week celebrations, and educational facilities such as mini zoos and recreational parks.
Management of Protected Areas(PAs) & Corridors
Improving protected area and wildlife corridor through ecological restoration, water and fire management, wildlife patrolling, and community-based eco-development initiatives that support local livelihoods and conservation.
Ex-Situ Conservation & Wildlife Rescue
Promoting Ex-Situ conservation and captive breeding at State zoo at Umtrew and Mini zoo at Tura; Rescue, Rehabilitation, Care and Veterinary support of injured, orphaned, and displaced animals, and their safe return to natural habitats wherever feasible.
Community Reserves
Constitution of Community Reserves under provisions of Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972, on private or community-owned lands voluntarily offered for wildlife and biodiversity conservation. Promoting community-led conservation while respecting customary landownership rights and traditional knowledge.
Eco-tourism in Wilderness Areas
Promoting responsible eco-tourism in Meghalaya’s wilderness areas through sustainable nature-based tourism, community participation, and low-impact visitor facilities. Supporting local livelihoods while conserving wildlife habitats, biodiversity, and the ecological integrity of natural areas.