Governor C.H. Vijayashankar on Monday unveiled ‘Butterflies of Meghalaya’ at Lok Bhavan, Shillong, describing the publication as a significant contribution to the documentation and conservation of the State’s rich natural heritage.
The event was attended by H.C. Chaudhary, Additional Chief Secretary to the Government of Meghalaya, along with scientists, conservationists, government officials and environmental enthusiasts.
The book, regarded as one of the most comprehensive works on Meghalaya’s butterfly diversity, documents 698 butterfly species found across the State. Authored by noted butterfly experts Dr Krushnamegh Kunte and Sanjay Sondhi, founder of Titli Trust, the publication is the result of years of scientific research and field documentation.
The project was conceptualised by H.C. Chaudhary during his tenure in the Forest Department and received support from field officers as well as the Eicher Group Foundation.
Speaking at the programme, the authors highlighted that Meghalaya is home to more than half of India’s butterfly species, underlining the State’s importance as a biodiversity hotspot.
They also noted that the Garo Hills region ranks among the leading butterfly hotspots in North-East India due to its unique habitats and exceptional species diversity.