Guwahati: In a bid to mitigate human-elephant conflict (HEC) in Udalguri district, premier biodiversity conservation organisation Aaranyak, with support from the SBI Foundation, has launched a programme to promote alternative crops that ensure livelihood security while deterring elephant depredation.
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As part of the initiative, Aaranyak distributed 310 Assam lemon saplings on September 1 to a household in No. 2 Tankibasti, Udalguri. The saplings will be planted across four bighas of land, forming a bio-fence around an areca nut plantation. Lemon plants serve a dual purpose—providing additional income to farmers while acting as a natural deterrent to elephants.
Continuing its efforts, the organisation distributed 6.5 kilograms of mustard seeds on September 8 in No. 2 Bamunjuli for cultivation across five bighas of land. Mustard is considered less attractive to elephants compared to paddy, thereby reducing crop raids and economic losses for farming households.
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Udalguri remains one of the most affected districts in Assam due to recurring elephant incursions during the harvest season. Aaranyak’s science-driven interventions aim to build elephant-resilient farming systems, protect livelihoods, and foster long-term coexistence between people and elephants. The initiative is being implemented by Aaranyak’s dedicated field team with active community participation.
