Guwahati: In a significant step toward promoting human-wildlife coexistence, biodiversity conservation organisation Aaranyak has launched an innovative programme introducing climate-resilient agricultural practices around Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary, the famed rhino habitat in Assam.
The initiative, implemented in collaboration with the Pobitora sanctuary authority, Eco-Development Committees, and local NGO SHIPA, seeks to address the twin challenges faced by fringe communities—seasonal floods from the Brahmaputra and year-round crop depredation by rhinos and wild buffaloes. These recurring issues have long posed livelihood threats to farmers while escalating conservation costs.
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To mitigate such challenges, Aaranyak has initiated alternative farming practices aimed at benefitting 200 farmers across 13 villages. In the first phase, the organisation conducted a capacity-building programme on climate resilience and distributed rain shelter equipment, vermicomposting bags, and quality seeds. The support was extended to five women’s groups of 10 members each, strengthening women’s leadership in sustainable agriculture.
“This initiative is designed to support vulnerable communities while reducing human-wildlife conflict and ensuring ecological sustainability,” said Dr. Deba Kumar Dutta, Deputy Director of Aaranyak’s Rhino Research and Conservation Division, who is guiding the project. On-the-ground implementation is being led by researcher Ujjal Bayan.
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Supported by the IUCN-CAG programme, the effort is part of Aaranyak’s broader mission to empower communities and foster sustainable coexistence with wildlife in and around Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary.
