Sustainable mushroom farming helps women tackle elephant conflicts in Meghalaya

Women from West Garo Hills, Meghalaya, are being empowered through sustainable mushroom farming to address the region’s escalating human-elephant conflict. A biodiversity conservation organization, Aaranyak, in collaboration with the British Asian Trust, recently conducted a capacity-building workshop to promote coexistence between humans and elephants.

The training, held at Bordubi LP School in Tikrikla Block, saw the participation of 25 women impacted by the conflict. Expert Aparna Rabha provided practical insights into oyster mushroom cultivation, highlighting its economic benefits and eco-friendly nature. Participants explored various mushroom species and learned cultivation techniques to boost their livelihoods. The initiative, supported by the Darwin Initiative, aims to mitigate the challenges arising from habitat loss and human intrusion that have led to crop destruction, property damage, and fatalities in the area. As part of the training, seven women involved in Aaranyak’s project received 2 kilograms of mushrooms as a starting aid.

“This effort not only equips women with sustainable income opportunities but also fosters a harmonious relationship with the wildlife around them,” said a representative from Aaranyak. The workshop underscores the importance of sustainable practices in resolving conflicts and ensuring the coexistence of humans and elephants in biodiversity-rich regions like Meghalaya.