Itanagar: Pema Khandu on Sunday commended the communities of Mandala, Phudung, Khellong and Nyukmadung in West Kameng district for successfully marketing non-timber forest products sourced from their Community Conserved Areas (CCAs).
The chief minister said the initiative demonstrates how community-led conservation efforts can create sustainable livelihood opportunities while safeguarding forest resources.
In a message shared on X, Khandu said the collective efforts of local communities had enabled the successful harvesting and marketing of products such as Sichuan pepper (locally known as Khagi) and star anise (Lishi).
According to him, the initiative has generated significant income for local families while ensuring that these forest resources are harvested responsibly.
Khandu noted that the achievement highlights the importance of sustainable harvesting practices and cooperation among communities in strengthening the rural economy without compromising ecological balance.
The chief minister also acknowledged the role of institutional support and market linkages in making the initiative successful.
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The effort was supported by World Wide Fund for Nature India and connected with buyers such as Dabur India, Nahar Organics and the North Eastern Regional Agricultural Marketing Corporation.
He also extended appreciation to the Community Conserved Area management committees and the more than 250 families involved in the effort, describing it as a model of how local stewardship can contribute to both environmental protection and economic development.
Officials said the marketing of forest-based produce such as Sichuan pepper and star anise is increasingly being promoted in Arunachal Pradesh as a sustainable livelihood option for rural communities.
By linking forest products to organised markets and responsible buyers, such initiatives help generate income for villagers while encouraging the conservation of biodiversity-rich community forests across the state.
