Aaranyak, a biodiversity conservation organisation based in the region, has expanded its efforts to support communities affected by human-elephant conflict (HEC) in Eastern Assam. Through targeted livelihood support and market access initiatives, the organisation aims to strengthen economic resilience among villagers frequently impacted by wildlife incursions.
Working across five districts—Jorhat, Majuli, Tinsukia, Sivasagar, and Dibrugarh—Aaranyak has partnered with the British Asian Trust, Elephant Family, and the Darwin Initiative to create structured opportunities for local producers. Under this collaboration, the organisations have launched a series of events titled Xupan—a term that translates to “the ladder of advancement”—to help connect rural artisans and farmers directly with consumers.
The initiative began on 14 June at Janjimukh Market in Jorhat, where 27 villagers set up stalls to sell their goods. A second event followed on 17 June at Mangalboriya Market in Majuli, with participation from 23 sellers. On 19 June, Sapakhuya Market in Tinsukia hosted 13 villagers. The next round took place at Rajmai Market in Sivasagar on 22 June, involving 11 participants, and the final event was held at the BVFCL Market in Dibrugarh on 24 June with the same number of sellers.
A variety of goods were made available at these markets, including traditional textiles such as Chadar-Mekhela, handmade bags and Gamochas featuring elephant motifs, pottery, organic vegetables, pickles, bamboo crafts, vermicompost, and bakery items. Many of these products reflect both the region’s cultural heritage and a growing shift toward sustainable practices.
The events were designed to allow villagers to sell their products without intermediaries, ensuring they receive fair value for their efforts. Visitors to the stalls expressed strong interest in the goods on offer, and a number of participants reported increased earnings and a sense of renewed confidence from engaging directly with buyers.
Through this initiative, Aaranyak and its partners have sought to address more than just the immediate economic impacts of human-elephant conflict (HEC). By building stronger market connections, they aim to offer a long-term, sustainable model for community-based development rooted in local skills and resources.
Also read | Arunachal to build museum dedicated to Bhupen Hazarika in Roing