Manipur Villages Protect Forests With Tradition

In the Chandel district of Manipur, India, the Anal Naga tribe protects forests using traditional systems called Uju and Rangkang. Uju refers to community-managed forests near villages where commercial logging is prohibited, but sustainable gathering for household use is permitted. Rangkang designates untouched forest areas within cultivation landscapes, intentionally left undisturbed for natural regeneration.

These systems rely on collective decision-making during annual assemblies, with strict rules enforced by village authorities. Violations, like cutting trees without permission, result in fines of roughly 150 rupees per tree, plus penalties based on timber value. The forests provide crucial ecological benefits, including buffers against natural disasters and sources of clean water recognized under the Jal Jeevan Mission.

The approach differs from many conservation models that emphasize separation or external expertise. While successful, the article notes this model isn’t fully documented and relies on inherited knowledge. Understanding how these systems adapt to changing conditions remains an ongoing effort, but offers valuable lessons for sustainable forest management.