Arunachal Pradesh is endowed with rich forests and it is one of the biodiversity hotspots of the world. The state is also rich in terms of its faunal diversities and the degree of endemism among the various species. Equally important is the fact that for centuries, these pristine forests have played an important role in the lives of the tribal communities and their inter-dependence on each other.
Kamlang tiger reserve spreads over Lohit and Anjaw districts and is home to the Kaman Mishmi and Taraon mishmi tribes. The reserve is bestowed with a number of important rivers like Kamlang, Lang, Lati which form tributaries to the mighty Brahmaputra river system. It is also home to the pristine and beautiful Glaw lake. Along with this, the park also has a rich faunal diversity including species like Tiger, Clouded leopard, Hoolock gibbon, Mishmi takin, Red panda among others.
IBeing a recently declared tiger reserve, the process of recording various mammals, birds, reptiles and flora is still ongoing. It is heartening to see that Kamlang tiger reserve has come out with the publication of this book, “Kamlang tiger reserve, at a glance.” It is also a delight to read the story narrating the origin of Glaw lake as per the beliefs of the Mishmi community. It indicates the symbiotic nature that this community shares with the lake. It will go a long way in the process of further documentation and research in the reserve. Further this book will raise awareness among the general public regarding the tourism potential of Kamlang, and can further help in raising livelihood opportunities for the local community.
My best wishes to the Field Director of Kamlang tiger reserve and her team.