By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, June 7: Jathang, one of the oldest settlements in Hima Mawphlang, has been selected as the focal point for an ecological restoration and sustainable livelihood initiative launched during World Environment Day celebrations on Saturday.
The programme, organised by the Hima Mawphlang Multipurpose Primary Agriculture Credit Society (HMMPACS) in collaboration with Earthtree, brought together traditional leaders, students, and environmental stakeholders at Jathang.
Addressing the gathering, the Lyngdoh of Hima Mawphlang, CA Lyngdoh, spoke on the need to protect the natural environment through collective community action. He highlighted the sacred groves preserved by earlier generations as enduring models of indigenous conservation and stewardship.
Earthtree, an organisation focused on climate resilience, has partnered with the Hima to support the project. The initiative seeks to restore landscapes while creating opportunities to strengthen rural livelihoods and community management of natural resources.
Earthtree Director Sunny Donkupar Mawiong said the project marks the start of a long-term partnership intended to restore ecosystems and generate lasting benefits for future generations.
A symbolic plantation drive was a key highlight of the event, with saplings planted in the shape of a map of India to signify the vision of reviving Jathang.
The programme also saw the participation of students from four local schools, underlining the role of the youth in conservation. The event concluded with calls for closer cooperation between traditional institutions, local communities, and environmental organisations to advance restoration efforts across Meghalaya.
