In Arunachal Pradesh’s West Kameng district, generations of families gather a wild Himalayan spice known locally as Khagi. This citrusy, peppery shrub has long been part of local food and medicine. Now, it also fuels a community-led effort to preserve more than 100 square kilometers of forest while providing economic benefits to 200 families.
- Khagi spice harvest supports forest conservation and community welfare.
- Over 100 sq km of community forests protected by Indigenous groups.
- WWF India helps strengthen local governance over Community Conserved Areas.
What happened
In Arunachal Pradesh’s West Kameng district, Indigenous families have traditionally harvested a wild Himalayan spice called Khagi, known for its strong citrus and peppery notes. This shrub, which grows naturally near abandoned fields and forest edges, has flavored local cuisine and served in healing rituals for generations. Recently, communities have organized a sustainable system to harvest, aggregate, and market Khagi as a source of income linked directly to forest protection.
With support from WWF India, villagers have established and strengthened Community Conserved Areas (CCAs) where natural ecosystems are managed by the local people. These efforts have resulted in over 100 square kilometers of community-owned forests being actively conserved. Every kilogram of Khagi sold contributes to forest patrols, biodiversity monitoring, and welfare programs, incentivizing families to protect rather than exploit the resource.
Why it feels good
This initiative exemplifies how Indigenous communities can lead conservation efforts while improving their cash-based livelihoods. Arunachal Pradesh’s forests cover nearly 80% of the state, with over 60% classified as Unclassed State Forests under local stewardship. By balancing traditional governance with sustainable economic opportunities, the CCA model respects community autonomy and strengthens cultural heritage.
As many forests worldwide face fragmentation and degradation, this partnership shows a hopeful alternative. The fusion of local knowledge and external support provides tangible benefits for both people and nature. It enables families to maintain their ties to the land and makes conservation rewarding. The Khagi spice harvest acts as a vital link between preserving biodiversity and fostering community wellbeing.
What to enjoy or watch next
Keep an eye on the further development of Community Conserved Areas across Arunachal Pradesh and beyond. These areas illustrate how grassroots leadership can protect crucial habitats, from forests to wetlands, benefitting diverse wildlife and plants. Future efforts may expand sustainable harvesting models for other native plants, deepening the connection between culture, nature, and economy.
For those interested in culinary traditions and indigenous knowledge, exploring the use of Khagi spice in Himalayan cooking offers a flavorful window into tribal life. Its unique citrus aroma and tongue-tingling effect are distinctive characteristics not widely known outside the region. Supporting products from such initiatives helps communities invest in forest conservation while sharing a special mountain heritage with the wider world.