The Amur Falcon (Falco Amurensis), a small raptor, showcases extraordinary resilience by migrating over 22,000 kms annually from its breeding grounds in Russia, China to winter in Southern Africa, crossing the Arabian Sea. These birds roost in Nagaland, Manipur, Meghalaya and Assam during their stopover in India. They stay for about two months before embarking on their next flight. Amur Falcons have the longest cross-oceanic flight of any raptor, flying non-stop over open water for days. In a report published in Hindustan Times on November 21, 2024, it was revealed that the satellite-tagged Amur Falcon “Chiuluan2” flew nonstop across the Arabian Sea in 5 days and 17 hours, reaching its first stopover in Somalia, showcasing the species’ remarkable migration abilities. Dr. Sangeeta Das, an Assistant Professor from Department of Zoology, Pragjyotish College highlighted the significance of Amur Falcon in India lies in the fact that they are predators, feeding primarily on a diet of insects such as termites, grasshoppers, dragonflies. She further added that these birds feed on crop pests, such as locusts, and help control insect population. It also contributes to pollination activities. Nagaland is called the “Amur Falcon Capital of the World” as it hosts up to one million Amur Falcons during their winter roosting season. Protecting falcon’s in India is crucial as they help control insect’s population that could damage crops and vegetation. This underscores the importance of both international corporation and local community involvement in conservation efforts. Additionally, falcons can attract tourism, and developing eco-tourism spots can further promote conservation. However, thousands of these falcons were hunted by local hunters for food and sold at very low prices in local markets. In 2012, conservation photographer Ramki Sreenivasan reported widespread hunting of Amur Falcon in Nagaland, threatening the global population of about one million birds.
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Dima Hasao district, previously known as North Cachar Hills, is located in Northeastern Indian state of Assam. It is often called the “Switzerland of the Northeast”, is renowned for its stunning natural beauty and diverse tourist attractions. As of 2023, it is the least populous district with Haflong being its only Hill Station in Assam, India. Umrongso, a small town in Dima Hasao, surrounded by hills and forests, serves as a crucial stopover for Amur Falcons during their migration. After widespread hunting of these falcons by local hunters, conservation organizations became concerned and initiated awareness programs and campaigns. As a result of these efforts, hunting Amur Falcon was declared illegal under the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972, and the species was placed under Schedule IV of the Act. The punishment for hunting or possessing an Amur Falcon on its meat includes up to three years in prison and a fine of up to Rs. 5,000 which led to a significant reduction in hunting activities. The hunters involved in falcon hunting were later trained to become bird and tour guides. In 2015, the first Amur Falcon Festival was celebrated at Karbi Club Ground in Umrongso as part of conservation efforts for the bird, organised by the Blue Hills Society and supported by the Assam Forest Department, 38 Assam Rifles, Charities Aid Foundation (CAF) India, and the Wildlife Trust of India (WTI), the festival saw participation from people of all age groups to raise awareness about the Amur Falcon. The festival was inspired by Nagaland’s Hornbill Festival. For over a decade, the Falcon Festival has been celebrated at the large Golf Course in Umrongso. The event includes awareness programs about Amur Falcon conservation, felicitations, live music by renowned artists, traditional dances by various cultural groups, a beauty contest called (Miss Grand Falcon), and activities like cycling and trekking. Every year, the number of visitors to Umrongso increases, with people from various countries attending the grand festival. This growing tourism has contributed to a decline in bird hunting in the region. As a result, tourism in Umrongso has steadily increased every year, significantly contributing to the region’s economic growth.
The 10th edition of Falcon Festival will be celebrated from December 13th to 15th, 2024, with performances by renowned singers like Monali Thakur, Mohammad Faiz, and many others. The three-day event promises to be a grand celebration. The Falcon Festival has played a crucial role in environmental conservation in Northeast India. It promotes sustainable tourism, supports local communities, and boosts the economy, contributing to the region’s environmental progress. It has also highlighted the importance of wildlife protection, community involvement and the preservation of local traditions and biodiversity.
(All views and opinions expressed are the author’s own.)
