SHILLONG, June 1 — Governor C.H. Vijayashankar on Monday unveiled the book Butterflies of Meghalaya at Lok Bhavan, hailing it as a landmark contribution to documenting the state’s natural heritage. The publication records 698 butterfly species and reports that more than half of India’s butterfly diversity occurs in Meghalaya, underscoring the state’s importance for lepidopteran biodiversity.
The book was authored by noted experts Krushnamegh Kunte and Sanjay Sondhi, who identify the Garo Hills as one of the top three butterfly hotspots in Northeast India because of its distinctive habitats and high species richness. Their work consolidates field observations and species records that highlight regional conservation priorities.
Conceptualised by H.C. Chaudhary, ACS to the Governor, during his tenure in the Forest department, the project received practical support from department field officers. The print edition was funded by the Eicher Group Foundation, the corporate social responsibility arm of Royal Enfield.
Speaking at the launch, Governor Vijayashankar emphasised the role of butterflies as indicators of ecosystem health and urged stronger awareness and stewardship. He called on local communities, educational institutions and traditional bodies to step up efforts to protect Meghalaya’s forests and other fragile habitats that sustain this diversity.
The authors said they hope the book will inspire students and researchers to pursue grassroots conservation and further study of the state’s fauna. They presented the volume as both a scientific resource and a call to action for conserving Meghalaya’s unique natural environment.
By documenting species richness and identifying key hotspots, Butterflies of Meghalaya aims to support conservation planning and public engagement with biodiversity, reinforcing the state’s standing as a critical area for India’s butterfly conservation.
Original Source: https://theshillongtimes.com/2026/06/02/guv-unveils-book-butterflies-of-meghalaya/
Category: MEGHALAYA
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Publish Date: 2026-06-02 02:18:00
