Guwahati, Feb 19: Region’s one of the top-notch biodiversity conservation organisation Aaranyak with support from SBI Foundation (SBIF) and in collaboration with Dhansiri Sikaridanga
Joint Forest management Committee (JFMC) has initiated efforts for replenishment of
habitat for wild elephants in Assam’s Udalguri district that is heavily affected by human
elephant conflict (HEC).
As part of the habitat restoration initiative, a co-managed nursery has been set-up by
Aaranyak and Dhansiri Sikaridanga JFMC over an area of 0.89 hectares and with focus
on raising plant species native to Assam so as to expedite habitat revival process to
benefit elephants and other wildlife.
The JFMCs are recognised by the Forest Department of Assam as its collaborators in
management for forest resources.
“In the last two years, around 27,55,000 saplings of 17 native species were raised in the
nursery and those will be eventually planted at the habitat restoration site to improve
upon the natural habitat for the elephants and other wildlife. We are exploring
introducing native plant species in future to boost our efforts,” said Dr Alolika Sinha,
senior manager and a conservation biologist working with Elephant Research and
Conservation Division (ERCD) of Aaranyak.
“The seeds used in the nursery are primarily sourced through community involvement,
engaging both school children and local villagers,” informed Aaranyak’s conservationist
Rabiya Daimari.
The nursery has more to do than only raising saplings. Around 20 households from
nearby villages participate seasonally during the peak operation period for the nursery.
Four of the households are involved in year-round activities to maintain the nursery.
These marginalized farmers and landless households from nearby villages get an
opportunity for earning a livelihood from the nursery. For the purpose of ensuring
proper maintenance and sustainability of the nursery a dedicated management team
A Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation, recognised by the DSIR, Ministry of Science and Technology, Govt. of
India,Registered under the Societies Registration Act XXI of 1860 with registration number 3096 of 1989-90
comprising members from the local community has been formed, and trained to
oversee daily operations including proper plant care, guiding community members
working in the nursery.
The nursery also offers experiential learning on the environment for students from
various schools and colleges. Beyond providing hands-on learning experiences, the
nursery also functions as a platform highlighting the significance of tree species to
wildlife as well as people's wellbeing.
The efforts to set up the nursery have garnered a positive response from the
community members regarding restoration efforts, cultivating a sense of ownership
and dedication to environmental conservation. Through their engagement in the
nursery, these individuals are also acquiring valuable skills and knowledge on
sustainable practices.
By focusing on habitat improvement for elephants and other wildlife species while
empowering local communities economically, this initiative sets a benchmark for
safeguarding the wellbeing of wildlife and people.