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REGISTRATION INFORMATION

TRAVEL INFORMATION

DETAILED ITINERARY

CALL FOR PAPERS

9^th NORTHEAST BUTTERFLY MEET & INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON BUTTERFLY RESEARCH AND CONSERVATION

Dates: 23 to 25 October 2026

Venue: Sikhna Jwhwlao National Park (Formerly Ultapani Reserve Forest) Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC), Assam, India

BACKGROUND

Northeast India is recognized as one of the most important butterfly diversity regions within the Oriental Biogeographic Realm. More than 960 species of butterflies have been recorded from the region, representing nearly 67% of the butterfly diversity of India despite occupying only about 7.7% of the country’s geographical area. The region encompasses extensive forest cover, numerous protected areas, and globally significant biodiversity hotspots that continue to yield important discoveries in butterfly research and conservation.

The Northeast Butterfly Meet (NEBM), initiated by the Butterflies of North Eastern India Group in 2014, has emerged as one of the most important annual gatherings of butterfly researchers, conservationists, photographers, students, naturalists, and citizen scientists. Since its inception, the meet has promoted scientific documentation, networking, capacity building, conservation awareness, and collaborative research throughout Northeast India.

The 9th Northeast Butterfly Meet & International Conference on Butterfly Research and Conservation is proposed to be organized in the butterfly-rich landscape of Sikhna Jwhwlao National Park (formerly Ultapani Reserve Forest) in Bodoland, Assam. The event will provide a unique platform for scientific discussions, field documentation, publication of research findings, capacity building, and exploration of butterfly-based ecotourism opportunities.

ABOUT THE MEET

The Northeast Butterfly Meet (NEBM) is a unique annual event dedicated to the study, conservation, documentation, and appreciation of butterflies and associated biodiversity. The meet brings together scientists, students, conservation practitioners, forest officials, photographers, ecotourism professionals, and nature enthusiasts from across India and abroad.

The event combines scientific presentations, poster sessions, butterfly surveys, mothing sessions, field excursions, conservation discussions, networking opportunities, and community engagement programmes. Over the years, the meet has become one of the most significant platforms for butterfly research and conservation in India.

The 9th edition aims to further strengthen scientific collaboration, promote conservation awareness, support young researchers, and highlight the immense biodiversity significance of Sikhna Jwhwlao National Park and the Bodoland landscape.

THEME

“Butterflies, Biodiversity and Communities: Advancing Research, Conservation and Sustainable Ecotourism in the Eastern Himalayan Foothills”

OBJECTIVES

Scientific Objectives

1. To document butterfly diversity and associated insect fauna of Sikhna Jwhwlao National Park and adjoining landscapes.
2. To provide a common platform for butterfly enthusiasts, researchers, students, and conservation practitioners.
3. To facilitate discussions on butterfly ecology, taxonomy, behaviour, distribution, and conservation.
4. To promote scientific publication and biodiversity documentation from Northeast India.
5. To prepare a comprehensive checklist of butterflies recorded during the meet.

Capacity Building Objectives

1. To train young researchers and students in butterfly identification and field documentation techniques.
2. To introduce participants to biodiversity monitoring tools and citizen science approaches.
3. To encourage scientific photography and nature interpretation.
4. To promote interaction between students and leading butterfly researchers of the country.

Conservation Objectives

1. To promote awareness regarding butterfly conservation and habitat protection.
2. To explore opportunities for butterfly-based ecotourism in Bodoland.
3. To encourage participation of local communities and youth in conservation initiatives.
4. To develop recommendations for butterfly conservation and management in Northeast India.

ORGANIZERS

Main Organizer

Butterflies of North-Eastern India Group

Local Hosts

1. Durgi Bhumij Foundation
2. Centre for Wildlife Research and Biodiversity Conservation, Bodoland University

Proposed Collaborators

1. Department of Forest and Climate Change, BTC
2. Department of Tourism, BTC
3. WWF-India
4. Aaranyak
5. Wildlife Trust of India (WTI)
6. BAMOS – Nature Conservation Society
7. Bahuvidha
8. Kamlang Valley Nature Club
9. Universities, Research Institutions and Conservation Organizations

STUDY AREA

Sikhna Jwhwlao National Park (Formerly Ultapani Reserve Forest)

Sikhna Jwhwlao National Park is situated in Kokrajhar and Chirang districts of the Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR), Assam, along the Indo-Bhutan border. Covering approximately 316.29 km², the park was officially notified as Assam’s eighth National Park in 2025.

The park forms an important component of the Manas Biosphere Reserve and serves as a critical ecological corridor connecting Raimona National Park, Manas National Park, and Bhutan’s protected forests.

The landscape comprises semi-evergreen forests, moist deciduous forests, riparian forests, grasslands, and sub-Himalayan alluvial forests. These habitats support rich wildlife including Golden Langur, Asian Elephant, Bengal Tiger, Clouded Leopard, Great Pied Hornbill, and numerous other species.

Popularly known as the “Haven of Butterflies,” the Ultapani landscape supports more than 460 recorded butterfly species, making it one of the richest butterfly habitats in India. The area harbours several rare, endemic, and legally protected species and offers exceptional opportunities for research, conservation, photography, environmental education, and butterfly tourism.

The rich butterfly diversity is attributed to the abundance of larval host plants, nectar resources, perennial streams, and ideal climatic conditions. The landscape is considered one of the most important butterfly conservation areas in Northeast India and serves as an ideal outdoor laboratory for ecological studies, citizen science initiatives, and nature-based tourism.

JOURNEY OF THE NORTHEAST BUTTERFLY MEET (NEBM)

1^st NEBM (2014) – Jeypore, Assam: The inaugural Northeast Butterfly Meet was organized in the Jeypore–Dehing Patkai landscape of Assam. Around 30 participants attended the two-day event. During the meet, ten butterfly species were added to the checklist of the area, including Plastingia pellonia (Yellow Chequered Lancer), which was recorded for the first time from India.

2^nd NEBM (2015) – Bornadi Wildlife Sanctuary, Assam: The second meet was organized at Bornadi Wildlife Sanctuary and Khalingduar Reserve Forest. The four-day programme attracted 47 participants from different parts of India and strengthened regional collaboration in butterfly research and conservation.

3^rd NEBM (2016) – Tale Wildlife Sanctuary, Arunachal Pradesh: Held at Tale Wildlife Sanctuary, Ziro, the meet documented 112 butterfly species. Forty-six participants attended. An interesting species of zygaenid moth awaiting scientific description was also recorded during the event.

4^th NEBM (2017) – Dzongu Valley, Sikkim: The meet documented 163 butterfly species including several rare species such as Dark Tinsel, Khaki Silverline, Himalayan White Flat, Purple Spotted Flitter, Evans Snow Flat, Northern Jungle Queen and Jungle Glory.

5^th NEBM (2018) – Pakke Tiger Reserve, Arunachal Pradesh: The meet documented 180 butterfly species and attracted around 50 participants from different states of India. Several noteworthy species including Nonsuch Palmer, Hewitson’s Dull Oakblue and Wavy Maplet were recorded.

6^th NEBM (2019) – Namdapha National Park, Arunachal Pradesh: The globally renowned Namdapha landscape hosted the sixth edition of the meet. A remarkable 207 butterfly species were recorded.

7^th NEBM (2023) – Raimona National Park, Bodoland, Assam: More than 190 butterfly species were recorded. Several noteworthy observations included Brown Onyx, Yerbury Sailer, Yellow Jack Sailer, Common Shot Silverline, Hooked Awlking and Double-banded Crow.

8^th NEBM (2025) – Kamlang Tiger Reserve, Arunachal Pradesh: The meet documented 235 butterfly species and attracted participants from various parts of India and abroad, making it one of the most successful editions of the Northeast Butterfly Meet.

EXPECTED PARTICIPANTS

Approximately 80 participants are expected to attend.

Categories

• Scientists
• Researchers
• PhD Scholars
• University Students
• Forest Officials
• Conservation Practitioners
• Tourism Operators
• Wildlife Photographers
• Nature Enthusiasts
• Citizen Scientists

Participants are expected from various states of Northeast India, other parts of India, and abroad.

CALL FOR PAPERS

Researchers, students, conservation practitioners, naturalists and citizen scientists are invited to submit abstracts for oral and poster presentations.

Themes

• Butterfly Diversity and Taxonomy
• Butterfly Ecology and Behaviour
• Conservation Biology
• Distribution Studies
• Citizen Science
• Climate Change and Biodiversity
• Insect Diversity and Monitoring
• Pollinator Conservation
• Butterfly Tourism
• Community-Based Conservation
• Wildlife Conservation
• Nature Education and Interpretation

Presentation Categories

• Oral Presentation
• Poster Presentation

IMPORTANT DATES

• Abstract Submission Deadline: 10 August 2026
• Notification of Acceptance: Within 7 days of submission
• Registration Deadline: 31 August 2026
• Full Paper Submission (Selected Authors): 30 November 2026

ABSTRACT SUBMISSION GUIDELINES

Abstract Format

• Maximum 300 words
• Title
• Author(s)
• Affiliation
• Email Address
• 3–5 Keywords

Abstracts should clearly mention objectives, methodology, major findings, and significance of the study.

MANUSCRIPT GUIDELINES

• Word limit: 2,000–5,000 words
• MS Word format
• Times New Roman, 12-point font
• APA Referencing Style
• Original and unpublished work only

REGISTRATION INFORMATION

Total Seats Available

80 Participants Only (First Come, First Served Basis)

Category	Registration Fee
Students (Up to PhD)	INR 3,000.00
Non-Students	INR 6,000.00
Foreign Participants	USD 150

Selected students presenting oral or poster papers may be reimbursed registration fees subject to availability of funds.

Registration Includes

• Accommodation
• Meals
• Local Transportation
• Conference Kit
• Participation Certificate
• Field Visits
• Mothing Sessions

Accommodation

• Two-Person Camping Tents
• Eco-Cottages
• Inspection Bungalow Rooms
• Limited Guest Rooms (Early Confirmation Recommended)

Participants are requested to bring

• Trekking shoes
• Rain protection
• Torch/Headlamp
• Binoculars
• Camera equipment
• Personal medicines
• Field notebook

(Continued with Itinerary, Awards, Publications, Travel Information, Committees, and Expected Outcomes in Part-II)

AWARDS AND RECOGNITIONS

To encourage scientific research, documentation, and conservation initiatives, the following awards are proposed during the conference:

Scientific Awards

• Best Oral Presentation Award
• Best Poster Presentation Award
• Young Researcher Award
• Best Student Presentation Award

Photography and Documentation Awards

• Best Butterfly Photograph Award
• Best Nature Photograph Award
• Best Documentation Award

Conservation Awards

• Outstanding Contribution to Butterfly Conservation Award
• Community Conservation Recognition Award

Certificates and mementos will be presented during the Valedictory Session.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

By Air

The nearest airports are:

1. Rupsi Airport, Assam: Approximate distance: 120 km
2. Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport, Guwahati: Approximate distance: 220 km
3. Bagdogra Airport, West Bengal: Approximate distance: 180 km

Transportation from designated pickup points may be arranged for registered participants on prior request.

By Rail

1. Kokrajhar Railway Station: Approximate distance: 45 km
2. New Bongaigaon Railway Station ;Approximate distance: 60 km

Both railway stations are well connected with major cities of India including Guwahati, Kolkata, New Delhi, Bengaluru, Chennai, Mumbai, and Siliguri.

By Road

National Highway → Kokrajhar → Bishmuri → Ultapani

The venue is accessible by road from Kokrajhar, Bongaigaon, Guwahati, Siliguri, and neighbouring districts.

Participants wishing to visit Raimona National Park or Manas National Park after the event may do so independently.

ROUTE MAP

By Air

Bagdogra Airport / Guwahati Airport / Rupsi Airport ® Road Transport ® Kokrajhar / Bishmuri ® Ultapani, Sikhna Jwhwlao National Park

By Rail

Kokrajhar Railway Station / New Bongaigaon Railway Station ® Road Transport ® Bishmuri ® Ultapani

DETAILED ITINERARY

22 October 2026 (Thursday)

Arrival of Participants, Resource Persons and Guests

• Arrival and Registration
• Check-in at Accommodation Facilities
• Informal Interaction and Networking
• Dinner and Overnight Stay

Day 1: 23 October 2026 (Friday): Inaugural Session

Time	Activity
08:00 AM	Registration of Participants
08:45 AM	Tea and Refreshments
09:00 AM	Inaugural Session
10:00 AM	Breakfast
10:30 AM	Oral Presentation Session I (5 Papers)
11:30 AM	Poster Presentation Session
01:00 PM	Lunch
02:00 PM	Butterfly Survey and Field Documentation in Ultapani Landscape
06:00 PM	Compilation of Observations, Species Documentation and Group Discussion
07:00 PM	Mothing Session and Nocturnal Insect Observation
08:30 PM	Dinner
09:30 PM	Networking and Informal Discussion

Day 2: 24 October 2026 (Saturday): Scientific Session and Field Survey

Time	Activity
06:00 AM	Breakfast
07:00 AM	Butterfly Survey and Documentation in Ultapani Landscape
11:00 AM	Tea and Refreshments
11:30 AM	Oral Presentation Session II (5 Papers)
01:00 PM	Lunch
02:00 PM	Butterfly Survey and Field Documentation in Saralpara Area
06:00 PM	Compilation of Findings and Group Discussion
07:00 PM	Mothing Session and Nocturnal Insect Observation
08:30 PM	Dinner
09:30 PM	Nature Interpretation and Interaction Session

Day 3: 25 October 2026 (Sunday): Raimona National Park Excursion and Valedictory Session

Time	Activity
06:00 AM	Breakfast
07:00 AM	Butterfly Survey and Documentation in Raimona National Park
02:00 PM	Lunch
04:00 PM	Presentation of Findings and Compilation of Species Checklist
05:00 PM	Valedictory Session
05:15 PM	Presentation of Conference Recommendations
05:30 PM	Award Distribution Ceremony
06:00 PM	Certificate Distribution, Group Photograph and Vote of Thanks
08:00 PM	Farewell Dinner

Day 4: 26 October 2026 (Monday): Departure

Time	Activity
07:00 AM onwards	Departure of Participants, Resource Persons and Guests
	Transportation to Railway Stations and Airports

PUBLICATIONS

Conference Abstract Volume

All accepted abstracts will be published in the official Conference Abstract Volume.

ISBN Conference Proceedings

Selected full papers presented during the conference will be published in an ISBN-registered edited volume.

The publication aims to promote scientific research and documentation on butterflies, biodiversity conservation, community participation, and ecotourism initiatives in Northeast India.

Coffee Table Book

A professionally designed Coffee Table Book entitled:

“Butterflies of Ultapani and Raimona: Jewels of the Eastern Himalayan Foothills”

Will be produced to document:

• Butterfly diversity
• Significant records
• Landscapes and habitats
• Conservation initiatives
• Community participation
• Nature tourism opportunities

The publication will serve as a valuable reference for researchers, students, tourists, and conservation practitioners.

EXPECTED OUTCOMES

The conference is expected to generate several important scientific and conservation outcomes:

Scientific Outcomes

1. Comprehensive checklist of butterflies of Ultapani and adjoining landscapes.
2. Documentation of significant butterfly records and observations.
3. Identification of rare, endemic, and legally protected butterfly species.
4. Scientific publications arising from conference presentations.
5. Strengthened regional butterfly database and biodiversity records.

Capacity Building Outcomes

1. Enhanced field skills of students and young researchers.
2. Improved understanding of butterfly ecology and conservation.
3. Increased participation of citizen scientists in biodiversity documentation.
4. Promotion of scientific photography and natural history documentation.

Conservation Outcomes

1. Recommendations for butterfly conservation and habitat management.
2. Promotion of butterfly-based ecotourism in Bodoland.
3. Increased awareness among local communities and stakeholders.
4. Strengthened collaboration among government agencies, NGOs, universities, and conservation practitioners.
5. Promotion of community-based conservation initiatives.

CONTACT AND REGISTRATION QUERIES

Email: nebutterflymeet@gmail.com

Website: durgibhumijfoundation.com

Call / WhatsApp

Dr. Monsoon Jyoti Gogoi:       +91 70022 54423

Kamal Azad:                            +91 98648 54382
+91 91017 56674

Nawang G. Bhutia:                  +91 97350 87508

Join us in celebrating the extraordinary butterfly diversity of Northeast India and contribute towards research, conservation, education, community engagement, and sustainable ecotourism in one of the world’s most biodiverse landscapes.

ORGANIZING COMMITTEE

The Organizing Committee is responsible for the overall planning, coordination, logistics, scientific sessions, participant management, publications, field activities, and successful conduct of the 9th Northeast Butterfly Meet & International Conference on Butterfly Research and Conservation.

Chief Organizers

• Kamal Azad, PhD Scholar, Bodoland University
• Dr. Monsoon Jyoti Gogoi, Ashoka Trust for Research in Ecology and the Environment (ATREE)
• Nawang G. Bhutia, BAMOS – Nature Conservation Society, Sikkim

Organizing Committee Members

• Arif Hussain, Aaranyak
• Gayatri Dutta, Aaranyak
• Sanatan Deka, Wildlife Trust of India
• Nazrul Houque, Wildlife Trust of India
• Sunit Das, WWF-India
• Bishal Basumatary, Bodoland University
• Rukma Acharya, Durgi Bhumij Foundation

Additional committee members may be included as the event progresses.

ADVISORY COMMITTEE

The Advisory Committee comprises eminent scientists, conservationists, academicians, and administrators who will guide the scientific and organizational aspects of the conference.

Members

• Prof. Hilloljyoti Singha, Head of the Department of Zoology, Bodoland University
• Sonali Ghosh, IFS, CHD, Forest, BTC
• M.C. Brahma, OSD to EM, Forest, BTC
• Jayanta Sarma, CHD, Tourism, BTC
• Rathin Barman, WTI
• Bibhab Kumar Talukdar, Aaranyak
• Anupam Sarma, WWF-India
• Prof. P.K. Saikia, Gauhati University
• Dr. Malabika Kakati Saikia, Head of the Department of Zoology, Gauhati University
• Dr. Narayan Sarma, Asst. Prof. Cotton University

The Advisory Committee will provide guidance regarding scientific content, conservation priorities, publication quality, and future directions of butterfly conservation in Northeast India.

EDITORIAL BOARD

The Editorial Board will oversee the review, editing, compilation, and publication of conference abstracts, proceedings, and associated publications.

Chief Editor

• Prof. Hilloljyoti Singha

Editors

• Dr. Monsoon Jyoti Gogoi
• Kamal Azad
• Nawang G. Bhutia
• Dr. Narayan Sarma

REGISTRATION PROCEDURE

Interested participants are requested to:

Step 1: Submit the online registration form.

Step 2: Pay the registration fee through the designated payment gateway or bank account.

Step 3: Submit the abstract (if presenting a paper or poster).

Step 4: Receive confirmation from the organizing committee.

Registration will be confirmed only after receipt of registration fee and verification of submitted details.

CODE OF CONDUCT

The Northeast Butterfly Meet promotes a respectful, inclusive, and collaborative environment.

All participants are expected to:

• Respect fellow participants and local communities.
• Follow instructions issued by organizers and forest officials.
• Respect wildlife and natural habitats.
• Avoid disturbance to animals and plants.
• Refrain from any activity that may damage ecosystems.
• Promote ethical photography and biodiversity documentation.
• Maintain professionalism during all sessions and field activities.

The organizers reserve the right to take appropriate action in cases of misconduct.

FIELD ETHICS AND SAFETY GUIDELINES

Participants are requested to:

• Stay with designated groups during field excursions.
• Wear appropriate field clothing and footwear.
• Carry sufficient drinking water.
• Inform organizers about any medical conditions.
• Avoid handling wildlife unless specifically authorized.
• Follow all safety instructions issued by forest staff.
• Maintain cleanliness at campsites and survey locations.

Collection of specimens is strictly prohibited unless appropriate permissions have been obtained from competent authorities.

ENVIRONMENTAL RESPONSIBILITY

The conference promotes environmentally responsible practices.

Participants are encouraged to:

• Minimize plastic usage.
• Carry reusable water bottles.
• Avoid littering.
• Support sustainable tourism practices.
• Respect local culture and traditions.
• Promote conservation-oriented travel.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

The Organizing Committee gratefully acknowledges the support and cooperation of:

• Department of Forest and Climate Change, BTC
• Department of Tourism, BTC
• Bodoland University
• WWF-India
• Aaranyak
• Wildlife Trust of India (WTI)
• BAMOS – Nature Conservation Society
• Bahuvidha
• Local communities and Eco-Development Committees
• Students, volunteers, researchers, and nature enthusiasts

Whose contributions are essential for the successful organization of the conference.

FUTURE VISION

The Northeast Butterfly Meet aims to establish a long-term platform for butterfly research, conservation, education, and sustainable nature tourism in Northeast India.

Through scientific collaboration, community participation, and capacity building, the initiative seeks to:

• Strengthen butterfly conservation efforts.
• Encourage biodiversity research.
• Promote youth engagement in conservation.
• Support sustainable livelihoods through ecotourism.
• Enhance public appreciation of butterflies and their habitats.
• Contribute to regional and national biodiversity conservation goals.

CONCLUSION

The 9th Northeast Butterfly Meet & International Conference on Butterfly Research and Conservation offers a unique opportunity to explore one of India’s richest butterfly landscapes while engaging with leading researchers, conservation practitioners, students, photographers, and nature enthusiasts.

Hosted in the spectacular forests of Sikhna Jwhwlao National Park (Ultapani), the conference will celebrate scientific discovery, conservation action, community engagement, and sustainable ecotourism.

We warmly invite researchers, students, conservationists, photographers, policymakers, and nature lovers from India and around the world to participate in this landmark event and contribute towards the conservation of butterflies and biodiversity in Northeast India.

“Discover • Document • Conserve”

See you in Ultapani, Bodoland, Assam on 23 to 25 October 2026