The project responds to growing pressures on land, ecosystems and livelihoods in Northeast India, where communities depend heavily on natural resources but face ecological degradation, climate stress, weakening local institutions, land insecurity and limited participation in decision-making. Emerging carbon and conservation investments add both opportunities and risks, strengthening the need for informed, inclusive and community-led governance.

The purpose of this project is to strengthen ecosystem resilience and improve the long-term wellbeing of marginalised communities by building the capacity of communities and local institutions to manage land, natural resources and development processes more independently. It marks a shift from primarily delivering conservation, livelihood and entitlement support towards strengthening the institutions and governance systems needed for sustained, community-led development.

The project scope includes participatory land-use planning, restoration of forests and watersheds, revival of Indigenous and agroecological practices, support for diversified livelihoods and improved access to government schemes, alongside safeguards and awareness around carbon markets and other external interventions. It also strengthens women’s, youth and marginalised groups’ participation in decision-making and builds the organisational capacity of NGOs and CBOs across Northeast India.