In response to the challenges posed by human-elephant conflict (HEC) in parts of Assam, biodiversity conservation organisation Aaranyak has provided 55 bee boxes to affected families in Udalguri and Baksa districts over the past two months. The initiative aims to offer an alternative livelihood while addressing the conflict that impacts both local communities and elephants.
Dr Bibhuti Prasad Lahkar, a senior conservation scientist and head of Aaranyak’s Elephant Research and Conservation Division, stated, “Of the total 55 boxes, 25 contained active bee colonies. These were provided to the Manas Sousi Khonkhor Ecotourism Society in Baksa and two families in Udalguri.” Additionally, 30 bee boxes without active colonies were distributed to five families in the two districts, including those who received active colonies.
Aaranyak official Didom Daimari conducted practical demonstrations on capturing queen bees and maintaining colonies, equipping the recipients with the skills needed to manage the bee boxes effectively.
The initiative, supported by the SBI Foundation, focuses on reducing HEC in high-conflict districts such as Baksa, Tamulpur, and Udalguri. By providing an alternative source of income through honey production, the project aims to reduce dependence on crops that attract wild elephants, thereby minimising conflict and promoting coexistence.
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The Aaranyak team, including Rabiya Daimari, Abhijit Saikia, Mondeep Basumatari, Jaugashar Basumatary, Bikash Tossa, Pradip Barman, and intern Abhilasha Boruah, worked closely with local communities to implement the project.
This approach not only helps affected families recover from losses caused by HEC but also fosters sustainable practices that benefit both wildlife and the communities living alongside them.
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