LIC-HFL Supports NESFAS in Strengthening Nature-based Livelihoods

NESFAS’ new project supported by LIC-HFL seeks to strengthen 15 indigenous communities in East Khasi Hills and Ri-Bhoi District through strengthening nature-based livelihoods.

NESFAS, in January this year, launched the LIC-HFL Special Project in two districts of Meghalaya, viz. East Khasi Hills and Ri-Bhoi, to identify, map, and assess potential nature-based livelihood initiatives and opportunities for the 15 partner communities across the two districts. Set to run for a year, the project aims to scale out successful community-based livelihood initiatives to benefit at least 2000 beneficiaries through training, improving access to resources and creating market linkages with a special emphasis on youth, women, and small and marginal farmers.

The indigenous communities in Meghalaya have, for generations, practised indigenous food production systems grounded in traditional knowledge. Their climate resilient food systems and community based resource management, coupled with reciprocal governance with deep-rooted values of self-sufficiency, care, and sharing has sustained these indigenous communities and the rich biodiversity around them. 

However, these time-tested indigenous systems face unprecedented threats today from the market-driven commercialisation of farming and other unsustainable land-use practices. Rapid industrialisation has led to disruption in ecological balance, displacing indigenous practices and eroding the food sovereignty of local communities. As biodiversity declines and economic vulnerabilities grow, the need for a holistic, community-led response becomes urgent.

The LIC-HFL Special Project is a response to this call for action, seeking to create and support green livelihoods by scaling successful models that have delivered results for indigenous communities in the recent past. The models include initiatives such as the Mei Ramew Cafes (Mother Earth Cafes), Seed Banks, local procurement for nature-based school meals, farmers’ markets, upgrading skills in beekeeping and eco-tourism. The project aims not only to scale these successful models but also to explore other innovative initiatives that align with the region’s traditional ecological knowledge and strengths. The project is aligned with several UN Sustainable Development Goals and aims to create a more resilient, prosperous, and environmentally sustainable future for the partner communities. 

Kong Angela Nongrum, farmer, Umsawwar expressed, “Through this project, one of our key activities is planting trees, especially each one of us nurturing saplings in their home gardens. I truly believe this is immensely beneficial for the entire community. It almost feels like we’ve taken on a second job. This project isn’t just like any other but it’s different. And I love that it’s doing something truly special for our community.”

General awareness and multiple training programs towards enhancing nature-based livelihoods have already begun in many of the 15 partner communities.

“The community members of Mawbri village are deeply grateful to NESFAS and its staff for their various programs and trainings that has brought us tremendous benefits in terms of empowering our youth to rediscover traditional knowledge and reconnect with our indigenous food systems,” shared Bah Gilbert Khongsit, farmer from Mawbri.

“It’s a great benefit to our village because this project opens up income-generating opportunities. It gives us a chance to improve our livelihoods. And as members of the cooperative society, we’re able to work together and really make the most of it,” shared Kong Antilest Suting, farmer from Jatah Lakadong. 

In the long run, this project aspires to spark lasting change. It aims to strengthen community resilience to climate change and environmental pressures through diverse, sustainable income sources. As households gain financial stability, the ripple effect will be a tangible reduction in poverty. Beyond economic impact, the project seeks to elevate the recognition of Indigenous Peoples’ Food Systems, championing their vital role in climate action, food sovereignty, and rural development. In doing so, it aims to influence policy and inspire a future where traditional knowledge and modern sustainability walk hand in hand.