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Khonoma – India’s First “Green Village”
Where is Khonoma located?
Khonoma is situated in Nagaland, near the Indo-Myanmar border. It is primarily inhabited by the Angami tribe.
Why is Khonoma called India’s first green village?
In 1993, Khonoma declared a ban on hunting, logging, and other exploitative practices by creating the Khonoma Nature conservation and Tragopan Sanctuary (KNCTS). This marked its transformation from a hunting society into a conservation-driven community.
What role did the Khonoma village council play?
The village council launched conservation workshops, raised awareness about endangered species such as the Blyth’s tragopan, and enforced strict community rules to safeguard forests and wildlife.
How did villagers adapt economically after stopping hunting and logging?
After banning hunting and logging, villagers adopted sustainable livelihoods such as weaving, carpentry, agriculture, bead-making, and eco-tourism. These alternatives provided income while reducing dependence on forest exploitation.
What are the conservation successes of Khonoma?
✔ Protection of the endangered Blyth’s tragopan.
✔ Revival of forests and wildlife through KNCTS, covering 25 sq. km.
✔ Expansion of eco-tourism, attracting visitors interested in biodiversity and Angami culture.
✔ Replication of community-conserved areas across Nagaland, inspiring over 700 similar initiatives.
Synopsis
Khonoma in Nagaland represents a remarkable shift from hunting traditions to ecological preservation. Through community-driven initiatives, the Angami people protected forests and species like the Blyth’s tragopan. By adopting alternative livelihoods such as eco-tourism and handicrafts, the village built a model of sustainable development. Today, Khonoma stands proudly as India’s first green village, showing how grassroots conservation can secure both cultural heritage and environmental protection.