India, April 30 -- An environmental NGO and villagers from Farkawn in southeastern Mizoram have launched a grassroots conservation initiative to protect its state bird, the vulnerable Mrs. Hume's Pheasant, known locally as Vavu. The collaboration has curated the Vavu Sanctuary at Mount Lurh to safeguard the species, promote biodiversity with a bid to create community livelihoods.

Mizoram's state bird, Mrs. Hume's Pheasant, has long held a place of pride among locals but increasing threats from habitat degradation have raised urgent calls for protection. Responding to these, a unique partnership emerged-uniting the villagers of Farkawn, the local Young Mizo Association (YMA), and the environmental NGO-Conservation Mizoram.

"The idea to c...