Overview

Located 82 km from the Mairang Block, Sylleibah village was founded in 1945 with only three households. The Nepalis were the first to settle here in search of livelihoods. They were soon followed by villagers of Kharbukhi, Nongbsap and Dohtdong clans who migrated from Lawmei village seeking better agricultural opportunities. Agriculture quickly became the main occupation for these early settlers. Today, the village has grown to 54 households, each contributing to the community’s agricultural and environmental initiatives. This is the story of Bah Kopstan Kharthangmaw from Umpdem village, the owner of a 27-hectare plantation area at Sylleibah village under the MegLIFE Project. Through his dedication and collaboration, this privately-owned land has been transformed into a thriving hub of sustainable plantation and prosperity.

On February 23, 2023, 57-year-old Shri. Kopstan Kharthangmaw, owner of a 27-hectare plantation, signed an agreement with the MegLIFE Project to conduct plantation activities on his largely barren land. Seeing an opportunity in the MegLIFE Project, Shri. Kopstan Kharthangmaw aimed to revive and enhance his plantation using sustainable methods.

The MegLIFE Partnership

With the support of the MegLIFE Project, Bah Kopstan began revitalizing his barren land. The project implemented an Artificial Regeneration (AR) Model on his 27-hectare plantation, involving the deliberate planting and nurturing of trees to accelerate forest growth. This plantation also serves as a model for AR, encouraging other villages to adopt the practice.Shri. Kopstan was also the first person in Meghalaya to enrol his area under the Carbon Credit Project by IORA in collaboration with MBDA.

Revival and Growth

In 2023, a total of 27 hectares of his land was planted with a diverse array of species, including Tita Champaca, Pinus kesiya, Toona ciliata. These species were carefully selected to ensure ecological balance, enhance biodiversity, and provide multiple benefits to the environment and the local community.

The Impact

The revival of Shri. Kopstan’s plantation has had profound effects:

• Environmental Restoration: The new plantation has helped restore the ecological balance of the area, preventing soil erosion, enhancing soil fertility, and improving the local climate.
• Economic Benefits: The plantation not only provides Shri. Kopstan with a sustainable source of income but also creates employment opportunities for the local community, fostering economic development.
• Community Inspiration: Shri. Kopstan success has inspired other villagers to adopt sustainable practices and participate in the MegLIFE Project, creating a ripple effect of positive change throughout Sylleibah
   

Conclusion

Shri. Kopstan Kharthangmaw’s story is a testament to the transformative power of resilience and community collaboration. Through his partnership with the MegLIFE Project, he has turned adversity into opportunity, transforming his plantation into a thriving, sustainable ecosystem. His journey serves as an inspiration to all, demonstrating that with dedication and the right support, it is possible to overcome challenges and create a legacy of prosperity and environmental stewardship.