Diphu: The Karbi Cultural Society (KCS) and Aaranyak jointly organised a pioneering discussion and awareness programme on sustainable development and natural resource conservation in Karbi Anglong, Assam.
The event, titled “Natural Resources and Green Livelihoods – A Conversation for Sustainable Development in Karbi Anglong,” was held during the 51st Karbi Youth Festival at Rangsina Sarpo Achatai, Karbi Peoples Hall, Taralangso, Diphu.
The program brought together 38 participants from across the district, aiming to incorporate traditional knowledge and cultural practices into modern resource management.
Esteemed guests included former HAD Minister Holiram Terang, KCS President Chandrasing Kro, Karbi Lammet Amei (KLA) leaders, academics, folk artists, and conservationists.
In his opening address, Chandrasing Kro emphasized the importance of preserving cultural identity alongside sustainable practices.
The event began with a cultural performance, Lahelo Ne Khei (“This is my land and my people”), performed by Chandrakanta Terang, celebrating the unity of people and nature.
Key discussions addressed the region’s rich natural resources and the challenges of deforestation.
Holiram Terang highlighted the alarming loss of 119,000 hectares of tree cover in Karbi Anglong between 2001 and 2023.
He proposed promoting the district as a natural resource-based special economic zone to conserve biodiversity and support sustainable livelihoods.
Assistant Professor Rebecca Kramsapi stressed the potential of bamboo-based industries, natural farming, and sustainable non-timber forest product (NTFP) harvesting as avenues for economic growth while preserving the environment.
Aaranyak’s representative, Sarlongjon Teron, shared insights into their Community-Based Natural Resource Management (CBNRM) programme, which focuses on eco-cultural tourism, sustainable farming, and value-added NTFP initiatives in the Kaziranga-Karbi Anglong landscape.
The event also featured the release of Teke Lapen Monit, a book exploring the relationship between tigers and humans, published in multiple languages, including Karbi.
ALSO READ: Supreme Court reserves verdict on Assam ‘fake’ encounter plea
Dr. Firoz Ahmed of Aaranyak described it as a tool for fostering environmental awareness.
Folk artist Longsing Bey concluded the session with a traditional Karbi song, highlighting the cultural significance of wildlife.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Horiram Engti of PIRBI, an ethnic enterprise, expressing gratitude to KCS and Aaranyak for their efforts.
Aaranyak reaffirmed its commitment to biodiversity conservation and community support in the Kaziranga-Karbi Anglong and Manas landscapes.
The initiative was supported by IUCN-KfW and the US Fish and Wildlife Service, with local volunteers and Aaranyak team members ensuring its success.
