Assam: ‘Xupan’ Initiative Empowers Villagers in Eastern Assam to Rebuild Livelihoods Amid Human-Elephant Conflict

GUWAHATI– In a remarkable step toward fostering sustainable rural livelihoods and mitigating human-elephant conflict (HEC), leading biodiversity conservation organization Aaranyak, in collaboration with the British Asian Trust, Elephant Family, and support from the Darwin Initiative, has launched “Xupan” — a series of buyer-seller meets across five HEC-affected districts of Eastern Assam.

“Xupan”, meaning “the ladder of advancement”, is a unique platform to connect rural artisans and producers with local markets, helping restore incomes and empower communities living on the frontlines of wildlife conflict.

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Beginning June 14 at Janjimukh Market, Jorhat, and concluding on June 24 at BVFCL Market, Dibrugarh, the series saw vibrant participation from over 85 villagers from project villages across Majuli, Sivasagar, Tinsukia, and other districts. Each event gave local producers a chance to showcase and sell handmade products like Chadar-Mekhela, elephant-motif Gamochas and bags, bamboo crafts, pickles, vermicompost, organic vegetables, and pottery items, directly to consumers.

Visitors warmly welcomed the stalls, purchasing a wide array of local goods and expressing admiration for the authenticity and quality of the products.

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“This initiative has not only helped us recover economically from crop damage due to elephant raids, but also given us hope and dignity,” said one of the participants.

By ensuring fair prices and broader market access, Xupan is playing a crucial role in strengthening economic resilience in areas vulnerable to HEC. Aaranyak reaffirmed its long-term commitment to promoting human-wildlife coexistence through integrated conservation and livelihood support programs.