Women from three villages in Assam’s Dibrugarh district showcased their high-quality handloom products and homemade edibles to officials from the British Asian Trust. The exhibition was a result of a collaborative effort between Aaranyak and the British Asian Trust to provide alternative livelihood options to the villagers and reduce their dependency on forest resources. The event aimed to promote the conservation of wildlife habitats and foster coexistence with wild elephants.
The exhibition featured a wide range of handloom products, including traditional Assamese mekhela chador, eri shawls, gamosas, and stoles. In addition, the women displayed various pickles and baked items. Belinda Stewart Cox and Auro Shashwat from the British Asian Trust, along with the Aaranyak team, visited the exhibition. The Aaranyak team consisted of senior scientist Dr. Bibhuti Prasad Lahkar, senior conservation biologist Dr. Alolika Sinha, and other members.
The initiative, sponsored by the Darwin Initiative (UK Aid), supported thirty-five beneficiaries who showcased their products. The event garnered participation from more than 70 individuals. It also provided an opportunity for beneficiaries to interact with officials from the British Asian Trust and Aaranyak.
Through this project, the village women have been encouraged to explore alternative livelihood options, moving away from their reliance on forest resources. The project aims to strengthen efforts for conservation and promote coexistence with wild elephants.
The exhibition not only highlighted the craftsmanship of the village women but also emphasized the importance of exploring sustainable livelihood alternatives. By supporting these women and their products, Aaranyak and the British Asian Trust have played a crucial role in empowering local communities and promoting wildlife conservation.
The event showcased the rich cultural heritage of Assam through its traditional handloom products. The wide variety of items displayed reflected the skills and creativity of the village women. Their products not only have commercial value but also provide a glimpse into the vibrant culture of the region.
The initiative has provided these women with a platform to showcase their talent and generate income through the sale of their products. By diversifying their livelihood options, they can contribute to the conservation efforts in the region while improving their own economic well-being.
The exhibition served as a reminder of the vital role communities play in conservation efforts. By supporting local artisans and entrepreneurs, organizations like Aaranyak and the British Asian Trust enable sustainable development and help protect the environment.
As the visitors from the British Asian Trust marveled at the exquisite handloom products and sampled the homemade delicacies, they could witness the positive impact of their support. The initiative has not only helped the villagers transition towards sustainable livelihoods but has also strengthened the bond between communities and conservation organizations.
By fostering such initiatives, Aaranyak and the British Asian Trust are setting an example of how collaboration and empowerment can drive positive change. The villagers, with their newfound economic opportunities, can now contribute to the conservation of wildlife habitats and ensure a harmonious coexistence with the natural world.
The exhibition concluded on a high note, with appreciation from the visitors and a renewed sense of hope for the future of the villages. With ongoing support and encouragement, these women will continue to thrive as they navigate the path of sustainable development, preserving their cultural heritage while protecting the environment they call home.
