I am a climate action advocate and a student of social work at TISS Mumbai. I am passionate about social change and am actively involved in youth-led initiatives focused on environmental advocacy and social justice. As a first-generation learner from the indigenous Tangkhul Naga tribe in Northeast India, I aim to amplify marginalized voices and contribute to strengthening the youth climate movement in India.
I’m also a part of a project that focuses on restoring the deforested and eroded hilly terrains of Manipur, specifically in areas inhabited by indigenous Tangkhul Naga communities. This is done by selecting native plant species, promoting sustainable agricultural practices and empowering local communities through traditional knowledge systems. We collaborate closely with the community to ensure that out restoration work aligns with cultural values and supports ecological resilience while maintaining the area’s rich biodiversity.
This project includes approximately 30 native plant species, carefully selected based on their ecological significance, cultural importance, and resilience to local environmental conditions. We prioritized species that are native to the Tangkhul Naga region, including indigenous trees, shrubs, and medicinal plants that play a vital role in local ecosystems and traditional practices. We collaborated with local community elders and ecologists to identify species that can restore soil health, enhance biodiversity, and support sustainable livelihoods. This collaborative approach ensures that the species not only thrive in the environment but also align with the community’s traditional knowledge and long-term restoration goals.