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LIMTHUREin Fakim so that other local communities
could be motivated.
Such steps may at fi rst glance seem
relatively insignifi cant to some, but those
working in the Northeast understand the
vital importance of winning even small
battles to involve communities in positive
conservation campaigns. This is because
communities infl uence each other and
the domino eff ect of positive steps can
rapidly take root across much wider
landscapes than planned. Planting native
seeds, restoring patches of jhum-impacted
(swidden agriculture) lands and winning
the trust of the wider community are all
part of the mission. In Tsuseki’s words,
“We understand that the fi ne balance
between the imperatives of wildlife and
the needs of people must be maintained.
We are determined to rewild lost lands
and improve our own water regimes.”
The Bhutan Glory Eco-club, named after the rare butterfl y (top) found in parts of Northeast
India and neighbouring Bhutan, uses photography, art and tree plantation drives to involve local
communities in their mission.Interestingly, art, design, photography,
and writing are key skills that are
helping the local youths to express
themselves with friends, family and
even distant communities. Soon the
club intends to establish homestays and
other conservation-based livelihoods
in Fakim and its surrounds. It asks that
researchers and NGOs pitch in with
simple help including capacity-building,
training and modest resources.
Tsuseki goes on to say that,
“Deforestation and the expansion of
agriculture are major reasons for wildlife
depletion. The Club now not only works
with the Wildlife Department but is also
recognised by the infl uential North East
Network, a women’s rights organisation.”
With determination born of inner
conviction, these two remarkable
fl ag bearers, are creating a cadre ofenvironmental activists who work with
traditions that help and seek to change
those that do not.
Sanctuary Nature Foundation
intends to continue to support the
work of the Bhutan Glory Eco-club in
the years to come and we urge our
readers to add their strength to this
vital mission. bHow You Can Help: Donate money
if you can. Your old cameras, laptops
or even equipment such as external
hard disks would be helpful.Contact: Tsuseki Yimchunger
Tel.: +91 98624 16529
Email: [email protected],
Limthure Yimchunger
Tel.: +91 84160 59466
Email: [email protected]COURTESY: BHUTAN GLORY ECO-CLUB