Coffee table book ‘Dima Hasao – Explore The Wonders Of Nature’ unveiled

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaDecember 20, 2024

The Dima Hasao Forest Division (West) in collaboration with biodiversity conservation organization Aaranyak has released a visually captivating coffee table book titled “Dima Hasao – Explore the Wonders of Nature.” The book offers an in-depth look at the faunal and floral wealth of Dima Hasao district in Assam, while celebrating its cultural heritage and sustained biodiversity conservation efforts.

This pioneering initiative is the first of its kind to compile biodiversity-focused information about Dima Hasao in an engaging and intuitive format. Edited by Dr. M. Firoz Ahmed, Sri Tuhin Langthasa, and Dr. Dipankar Lahkar, the book serves as a treasure trove for nature enthusiasts, scholars, and conservationists.

The book provides a comprehensive account of the region’s diverse ecosystems, covering 59 species, 41 species, 33 species of amphibians and reptiles, 22 species of fishes, 18 species of butterflies, 18 species of insects and 12 species of orchids.

Additionally, the book highlights key trees, shrubs, and newly described species from the district. Each species is coded to emphasize its ecological significance and place in the natural history of Dima Hasao. Natural history notes about endemic, locally extirpated, and extinct species are also included, enriching the reader’s understanding of the region’s ecological legacy.

Beyond biodiversity, the book delves into the cultural aspects of Dima Hasao, portraying Indigenous traditions and the community’s harmonious coexistence with nature. Highlights include the mythology of Tortoise Lake, contributions of Veer Demalik Kemprai and fascinating insights into iconic species like hornbills and Amur falcons.

The narrative is complemented by stunning high-quality photographs contributed by over 50 photographers, providing a vivid visual experience.

The book’s text was enriched by contributions from eminent experts, including Dr. Anwaruddin Choudhury, Dr. Sarbojit Thaosen, Dr. Ron Kemprai, Mr. Nirmendu Kemprai, and several others. Editorial advisors Dr. Anwaruddin Choudhury, Dr. Bibhab Kumar Talukdar, Mr. Bijay Sankar Bora, and Mr. Jayanta Kumar Pathak provided invaluable guidance, ensuring the book’s academic and visual quality.

In addition to species descriptions, the book features checklists of animals and plants, offering a vital resource for researchers, environment enthusiasts, and planners. This compilation is expected to serve as a benchmark for future studies and conservation efforts in Dima Hasao.

The coffee table book was unveiled on December 13, 2024, during the Falcon Festival at Umrangso. Speaking at the launch, Chief Executive Member (CEM) of the NC Hills Autonomous Council, Debolal Gorlosa, remarked: “Dima Hasao has a rich legacy of wildlife exploration dating back to the colonial era. This initiative of compiling valuable information and presenting it in such a comprehensive manner is commendable. The government of Assam and the North Cachar Autonomous Council are committed to preserving the region’s pristine biodiversity and cultural heritage for future generations.”