Written by Jason Iangrai
On April 29, 2025, a two-week immersive programme for youth came to a successful conclusion at Umsawwar village, Mawkynrew block, East Khasi Hills.
From April 14 to 29, NESFAS facilitated a programme aimed at reconnecting youth with nature and deepening their understanding of Indigenous Peoples’ Food Systems (IPFS). The programme focussed on exploring how IPFS support biodiversity conservation, nutrition, sustainable livelihoods, and climate resilience.
The programme brought together 24 youths from 12 villages, immersing them in hands-on learning experiences and knowledge exchange. Additionally, four students from St. Edmund’s College interning at NESFAS also participated in the programme.
Using participatory tools, they engaged with knowledge holders and elders in their communities to map their local food systems, supporting the vital intergenerational transfer of knowledge. The youth prepared seasonal calendars documenting their food system practices, conducted assessment of their seasonal food dependency, and identified best practices associated with seed and soil management.
They also assessed local livelihoods, evaluating economic activities and potential for green and untapped opportunities. As part of their introduction to biodiversity management, they participated in nursery training conducted by Mr. Kerlang Khonglam, Former Research Consultant, NESFAS. Participating youth were also exposed to inter-village exchange programmes where they interacted with community members to better understand the practices and systems of other communities. They discussed ways to ensure their continued engagement in food system practices to promote future sustainability.
“This is only the beginning,” said Kong Gratia Dkhar, Programme Coordinator, NESFAS. “We remain committed to walking alongside the youth, continuing and deepening our engagement while co-creating meaningful solutions for the future.”
Concluding on April 29, in Umsawwar village, the youth participants presented their findings, followed by a cultural programme showcasing indigenous traditions and youth reflections. The event was also attended by Sephrin Nongrum, Sordar of Umsawwar, along with the NESFAS team.
While presenting, the young participants expressed that the field exposure to different villages was an eye-opener. As each community, though rural, held distinct practices and perspectives.
Among the highlights, Banrap Lang Rajee from Mawbri village delivered a phawar, a traditional couplet, urging his peers to remain rooted and active contributors to society. The phawar, reflected the oral nature of Khasi traditions and reinforced the importance of keeping such cultural expressions alive.
Bah Pius Ranee, Executive Director, NESFAS, in his speech, urged the youth to carry with them the knowledge of their roots, even when they step beyond their villages. He emphasised the importance of indigenous knowledge—from sustainable foraging practices to understanding how urban youth can support rural youth through research. He highlighted that if we lose this traditional wisdom in the next decade, we face a grave future, especially as many elderly knowledge holders have already passed on, taking their wisdom with them.
“You are never truly without opportunities,” Bah Pius reminded the youth in his concluding remarks. “Your villages are rich in traditions and resources from beekeeping and farming to silk-making all waiting to be tapped into.”
Participant Eningson Lyndem from Ladmawphlang village said, “As youth, we’re often drawn to modern trends, forgetting farming—the very foundation of our livelihoods. This programme has inspired us to rethink our path and start taking initiative in agriculture once again.”
