North East India, a region blessed with rich biodiversity and untouched natural beauty, is increasingly becoming a hub for grassroots and government-led nature conservation campaigns. From community-driven afforestation drives to eco-tourism models that empower local tribes, these initiatives are making a real difference. Here are 11 remarkable nature campaigns that are helping preserve the green lungs of India, while promoting sustainability and biodiversity in the region.
1. Green Mizoram Programme
Launched in 1999, this annual tree plantation drive by the Mizoram government involves government departments, schools, NGOs, and locals. It has become a celebrated environmental tradition aimed at combating deforestation and enhancing green cover.
2. Hornbill Nest Adoption Programme, Nagaland
A unique campaign by the Nagaland-based NGO Nature Conservation Foundation, this program encourages villagers to protect hornbill nesting trees. In return, they receive financial support — turning conservation into a sustainable livelihood.
3. Apatani Bamboo Groves, Arunachal Pradesh
While not a formal campaign, the Apatani tribe’s traditional farming techniques and bamboo preservation efforts have become models for sustainable living. Recent documentation efforts are helping turn these traditions into community-wide awareness and eco-conservation initiatives.
4. Save Majuli Campaign, Assam
Majuli, the world’s largest river island, faces severe erosion. This local campaign focuses on awareness, tree plantation, and sustainable farming to preserve the island’s ecology and culture. NGOs and student groups play a major role here.
5. Clean Dzükou Valley Drive, Nagaland/Manipur
Popular among trekkers, Dzükou Valley suffers from waste left by tourists. Volunteer-driven clean-up campaigns are held annually, involving both locals and eco-tourists to maintain the valley’s pristine environment.
6. Sikkim Organic Mission
Sikkim became India’s first fully organic state through this landmark campaign. Government and local farmers partnered to eliminate chemical-based farming practices. The campaign also encouraged agro-tourism and organic food culture.
7. Khonoma Green Village Initiative, Nagaland
India’s first “green village”, Khonoma banned hunting and logging in the early 2000s. It is now a model for eco-tourism and biodiversity conservation, driven entirely by the Angami tribal community.
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8. Reforestation Drive in Jaintia Hills, Meghalaya
Mining-affected areas in Meghalaya are being restored through local reforestation drives, often led by village elders and student unions. Indigenous tree species are planted, and soil restoration efforts are supported by local councils.
9. Manas Maozigendri Ecotourism Society, Assam
A community-based eco-tourism initiative near Manas National Park, this society trains locals as naturalists and tour guides. It also runs conservation education for children in surrounding villages, blending livelihood with wildlife protection.
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10. Arunachal Clean Rivers Campaign
Led by student and youth groups, this grassroots campaign focuses on cleaning riverbanks and reducing plastic waste in rivers like Siang and Lohit. Awareness rallies and waste segregation workshops are held regularly.
11. Loktak Lake Conservation Movement, Manipur
The floating lake of Loktak is under threat from pollution and hydro projects. This movement, led by local fisherfolk and environmentalists, fights for lake restoration, traditional fishing rights, and protection of the endangered Sangai deer.
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North East India’s nature campaigns reflect a unique synergy between age-old traditions and modern conservation methods. Whether it’s protecting hornbills in Nagaland or turning Sikkim fully organic, these efforts are setting powerful examples for the rest of the country. As environmental challenges grow, it’s time to look toward the North East — not just for its beauty, but for its bold, community-driven approach to protecting nature.
