Karbi Cultural Society and Aaranyak Collaborate for Sustainable Development in Karbi Anglong

In a major step toward sustainable development, the Karbi Cultural Society (KCS) and Aaranyak, a leading environmental organization, collaborated to host an awareness program on natural resource conservation and green livelihoods in Karbi Anglong, Assam.

The event, titled “Natural Resources and Green Livelihoods – A Conversation for Sustainable Development in Karbi Anglong”, took place during the 51st Karbi Youth Festival at Rangsina Sarpo Achatai, Karbi Peoples Hall, Taralangso, Diphu.

With participation from 38 representatives from across the district, the initiative focused on integrating traditional Karbi knowledge with modern environmental conservation strategies.

Notable Guests and Cultural Importance

The event was attended by prominent figures from various sectors, including:

Former HAD Minister Holiram Terang
KCS President Chandrasing Kro
Karbi Lammet Amei (KLA) leaders
Academics, folk artists, and conservationists

The session commenced with a captivating cultural performance, “Lahelo Ne Khei” (“This is my land and my people”), by Chandrakanta Terang. This performance symbolized the deep-rooted connection between the Karbi people and their land, reinforcing the importance of preserving both cultural heritage and natural resources.

Environmental Challenges in Karbi Anglong

The discussion centered on the urgent environmental concerns affecting Karbi Anglong.

Deforestation Crisis: Former HAD Minister Holiram Terang raised concerns over the loss of 119,000 hectares of tree cover between 2001 and 2023.
Biodiversity at Risk: The rapid depletion of forests threatens wildlife habitats, particularly in areas bordering the Kaziranga National Park.
Soil Erosion and Climate Change: Unchecked deforestation has led to soil degradation and disrupted local weather patterns, directly impacting agriculture and water sources.

To combat these challenges, Terang proposed the establishment of a natural resource-based special economic zone (SEZ). This model aims to promote sustainable industries while conserving biodiversity, ensuring long-term economic and environmental stability.

Green Livelihoods: Sustainable Economic Solutions

The event highlighted green livelihood opportunities that could benefit local communities while preserving the ecological balance of Karbi Anglong.

1. Bamboo-Based Industries

Assistant Professor Rebecca Kramsapi stressed the potential of bamboo cultivation as a sustainable economic driver.

Bamboo is abundant in Karbi Anglong and can be used to produce furniture, handicrafts, and biodegradable products.
Encouraging bamboo-based enterprises could create employment opportunities while reducing dependence on deforestation-prone industries.

2. Non-Timber Forest Product (NTFP) Harvesting

The discussion also focused on sustainable harvesting of non-timber forest products (NTFPs) like:

Wild honey
Medicinal herbs
Handmade natural dyes

These products, if managed responsibly, could enhance rural economies while promoting forest conservation.

3. Eco-Cultural Tourism

The potential for eco-cultural tourism was another major point of discussion. With its pristine landscapes and rich cultural heritage, Karbi Anglong has immense potential for sustainable tourism initiatives.

Homestays and Community Tourism – Visitors can experience Karbi traditions while contributing to the local economy.
Trekking and Wildlife Experiences – Guided eco-tours can create awareness about conservation while generating income for local communities.

Aaranyak’s Role in Sustainable Development

Sarlongjon Teron, representing Aaranyak, introduced their Community-Based Natural Resource Management (CBNRM) programme, which focuses on:

Eco-Cultural Tourism Development – Encouraging tourism models that respect local traditions and biodiversity.
Sustainable Farming Practices – Training local farmers in organic agriculture and water conservation techniques.
Value-Added NTFP Initiatives – Helping communities process and market forest products more effectively.

Aaranyak’s long-term engagement in the Kaziranga-Karbi Anglong landscape ensures community participation in conservation efforts while fostering economic resilience.

Launch of ‘Teke Lapen Monit’: A Book on Tigers and Human Coexistence

One of the highlights of the event was the release of ‘Teke Lapen Monit’, a book exploring the complex relationship between tigers and humans.

Published in multiple languages, including Karbi, the book aims to educate local communities about the importance of coexisting with wildlife.
It also raises awareness about tiger conservation efforts and the impact of deforestation on wildlife habitats.

A Step Toward a Sustainable Future

The collaboration between the Karbi Cultural Society and Aaranyak represents a critical step toward achieving sustainable development in Karbi Anglong.

By integrating traditional ecological knowledge with scientific conservation approaches, the initiative aims to:

Protect Karbi Anglong’s forests and biodiversity
Empower local communities through sustainable livelihood options
Promote eco-tourism and bamboo-based industries

The 51st Karbi Youth Festival provided a perfect platform to emphasize the urgent need for environmental conservation while celebrating cultural identity and heritage.

With continuous efforts from local leaders, conservationists, and grassroots organizations, Karbi Anglong has the potential to become a model for sustainable living and environmental protection in Northeast India.