The Kaiser-e-Hind, also known as the "Emperor of India," is a highly uncommon butterfly species in India. Scientifically named Teinopalpus imperialis, this rare swallowtail butterfly can be found in specific regions of Nepal, Bhutan, and the Eastern Himalayas in India. It is also spotted in certain areas of Northern Myanmar, Northern Vietnam, and the Sichuan Province of China.

This magnificent butterfly thrives in the Eastern Himalayas, specifically in India's Arunachal Pradesh, West Bengal, Meghalaya, Assam, Sikkim, and Manipur. It primarily inhabits forested terrains at medium to high elevations, ranging from 6,000 to 10,000 feet above sea level.

In Arunachal Pradesh, the Kaiser-e-Hind butterfly has been observed in Talle Valley and its surrounding areas in Ziro, the Lower Subansiri District, Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary in the West Kameng District, and the Luyor Pass area in the Siang District.

On May 22, 2023, my friends and I had the privilege of spotting this rare and exquisite butterfly for the first time in the forests of Mechuka, located in the Shi Yomi District. This discovery adds another remarkable addition to the already diverse collection of rare and stunning high-altitude flora and fauna found in Shi-Yomi District. The presence of the Kaiser-e-Hind butterfly has the potential to attract numerous butterfly enthusiasts to the district, particularly Mechuka. With Mechuka's median altitude at approximately 7,000 feet above sea level, it is believed that a thorough survey conducted by experts could unveil the sighting of many more high-altitude butterflies. The vegetation and altitude of Mechuka seem especially suitable for another beautiful and rare butterfly, the Bhutan Glory.

The Kaiser-e-Hind butterfly is highly sought after by butterfly lovers and enthusiasts due to its rarity and beauty. The writer had unsuccessfully attempted to catch a glimpse of this butterfly in Talle Valley, Ziro, for nearly seven years. Additionally, the butterfly's presence indicates a thriving biodiversity, particularly in terms of plants and trees, as the Magnolia sp. tree serves as the host plant for the Kaiser-e-Hind butterfly. With its shimmering greens, vibrant yellows, and delicate blacks, this butterfly is a visual delight. The green iridescence of its wings is a subject of extensive research, attributed to the three-dimensional photonic structure of its scales.

It is worth mentioning that there was a proposal to designate the Kaiser-e-Hind butterfly as the State Butterfly of Arunachal Pradesh during the Pakke Declaration in 2021. Contrary to information found on various websites, the Kaiser-e-Hind butterfly has not yet been officially named as the State Butterfly of our state. The decision regarding its naming has been put on hold by the cabinet for further discussion. The sighting of this butterfly in Mechuka this year was both astonishing and unexpected, filling us with jubilation. Conducting proper surveys in similar altitude and vegetation areas such as Mishmi Hills, Anjaw District, Upper Subansiri District, Pakke-Kessang District, and Namdapha National Park would likely increase the chances of sighting this butterfly. If spotted in more regions, the Kaiser-e-Hind butterfly could certainly be designated as the "STATE BUTTERFLY OF ARUNACHAL PRADESH." This action would aid in the protection, conservation, and preservation of this rare butterfly from extinction within our state.

Under the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972, the Kaiser-e-Hind butterfly is classified as a protected species under Schedule II. Hence, smuggling, unauthorized handling, or killing of this butterfly is a punishable offense. Its IUCN status is classified as near threatened.

Article Contributor and photographer Dr. Joram Khopey is presently posted as Deputy Director, State Blood Transfusion Council (Arunachal Pradesh) under Directorate of Health Services, Naharlagun he can be reached @ 8974541686