Guwahati: As part of the sustained endeavour to strengthen livelihoods of women folk living around wildlife protection areas, leading biodiversity conservation organisation Aaranyak, in collaboration with Kaziranga National Park & Tiger Reserve Authority, Laokhowa-Burhachapori Wildlife Sanctuary Authority, Nagaon Wildlife Division and LBCS and with support from International Rhino Foundation (IRF), provided weaving sets, sewing machines and other equipment to two women’s groups from the fringe of Laokhowa-Burhachapori Wildlife Sanctuary.
A formal handover programme was held on February 17 at Gorajan Range of Laokhowa Burhachapori Wildlife Sanctuary. The equipment was handed over by Rajib Hazarika, Divisional Forest Officer (DFO), Nagaon Wildlife Division and Arif Hussain, Senior Manager, Rhino Research and Conservation Division of Aaranyak.
The programme was attended by Range Officers Pankaj Bora of Dhania Range and Mukut Rabha of Gorajan Range, Dilwar Hussain, President of LBCS, Swapan Nath, conservationist from Kaziranga, along with other officials.
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Aaranyak has been working towards enhancing livelihood opportunities for women residing around the sanctuary through skill development initiatives. The beneficiary groups have already received training in water hyacinth craft and are generating income through the production of eco-friendly items.
The newly-provided equipment is expected to improve productivity, expand product varieties and strengthen income generation for the groups. The women beneficiaries expressed their gratitude to the Park Authority and Aaranyak for their continued support and guidance.
The initiative reflects an integrated approach linking conservation efforts with sustainable community development in the Laokhowa landscape.
