Assam villagers create Forest reserve for deer
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Four villages in Assam, India. Gohain Chapori, Hator Khola, Puthimari, and No. 1 Barmuthoni, are converting 1,044 bighas of grazing land into a forest reserve to safeguard a population of around 150 deer.
For generations, people in this region have shared land with wildlife, including deer and wild ducks, but increasing threats like hunting and encroachment prompted them to action. Residents initiated the project with a community workday, building a road and planting trees toward the future reserve.
The villagers understand protecting the deer requires balancing animal needs with their own livelihoods, as families rely on the land for grazing. They plan to establish a village-level committee to manage the reserve, regulating activities like grazing and fishing while prohibiting hunting and uncontrolled burning. District and Forest Department officials are supporting the effort. Establishing the Maghuwa Hola Village Forest Reserve still requires official approval from the Assam government and a review of land boundaries and existing rights.
Villagers also hope to develop ecotourism to provide income and encourage ongoing conservation. The communities believe that local involvement is essential for the reserve’s long-term success and continued coexistence with wildlife.
