Mr. Tambor Lyngdoh, a veteran conservationist from Meghalaya, has devoted more than three decades to safeguarding forests while empowering indigenous communities through grassroots leadership. His journey gained prominence between 1996 and 2011 during his tenure as Secretary of his local governing body (Hima), where he initiated transformative conservation practices that would later define his legacy. Among his earliest contributions were the revival of a sacred grove, the introduction of eco-tourism, and the mobilization of community participation in forest protection. These initiatives laid the foundation for Synjuk, the organization he later established, alongside his continued leadership as President of the Village Forest Council since 2001.
Over the years, he has emerged as a key figure in community-led conservation across the Umiam watershed. Through sustained engagement with local populations, he has contributed to the protection of nearly 3,000 hectares of dense forests and the regeneration of approximately 9,000 hectares of degraded land. His leadership has been instrumental in mobilizing 86 villages in the East Khasi Hills under the Khasi Hills Community REDD+ Project and 27 villages in Ri Bhoi district. Efforts have also been extended to eight villages in Manipur and four villages in Mizoram, reflecting the expanding regional impact of his work.
A defining milestone in his career has been his role in implementing India’s first REDD+ project, a United Nations-supported initiative aimed at reducing emissions from deforestation and forest degradation. Through this effort, he successfully brought together ten indigenous governing bodies, making it one of the few community-managed REDD+ projects in Asia. His approach emphasized inclusive participation, engaging women’s groups, farmers, and youth across more than 100 villages. These initiatives not only strengthened environmental stewardship but also promoted sustainable livelihood alternatives. Women, for instance, transitioned from charcoal production to eco-friendly income sources, while the distribution of alternative fuels to over 7,700 households significantly reduced pressure on forest resources. Fire prevention strategies, including the creation of man-made fire lines, further safeguarded large forest areas.
His leadership style is rooted in trust, collaboration, and empowerment. By fostering a strong sense of ownership among local communities, he has ensured that conservation becomes a shared responsibility. His journey into leadership began early when he was elected Secretary of his village at just 17 years of age. During that period, he secured government support for infrastructure development and livelihood improvements, setting the tone for his lifelong commitment to public service. His collaborative spirit has also extended to academia, supporting over 30 researchers from India and abroad in their environmental studies.
The outcomes of his initiatives are evident in both ecological and socio-economic transformation. Restored forest ecosystems have resulted in cleaner water sources, reduced soil erosion, and improved groundwater retention. Simultaneously, local youth have gained valuable skills, enhancing employment opportunities and long-term sustainability. Strengthened wildlife corridors have supported the conservation of endangered and endemic species, while satellite imagery confirms significant regeneration across a 27,000-hectare watershed influenced by his efforts.
In addition to conservation, he has actively promoted sustainable tourism practices. At sacred groves such as Mawphlang, he introduced structured visitor guidelines, including mandatory guided tours, designated pathways, and the encouragement of native tree planting. These measures have preserved ecological balance while generating livelihood opportunities for local communities.
His contributions extend into policy, advocacy, and public engagement. Serving as a Member of the Wildlife Conservation Committee and as Wildlife Warden of East Khasi Hills since 2015, he has played a vital role in shaping regional conservation strategies. He has also contributed to the Meghalaya Biodiversity Board’s Expert Committee and participated in national and regional REDD+ forums. Recognized widely, including receiving the NatWest Green Warrior Award in 2020, he continues to inspire a model of conservation that harmonizes traditional knowledge with modern environmental practices.
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