Guwahati (Assam) [India]: A five-day Eco-Tourism and Guiding training program was successfully conducted in the fringe areas of Manas Tiger Reserve, aiming to equip local youth with skills in nature-based tourism. The initiative was organized by Aaranyak, a leading biodiversity conservation organization, in collaboration with the Directorate of Manas Tiger Reserve and the local unit of All Bodo Students Union (ABSU).
Training Overview
The program, held at Hatizan, Daoddhara, Baksa, focused on eco-cultural tourism and guiding skills, helping youth from Bhuyanpara and Kokilabari areas develop expertise as cultural tour experts and nature guides.
A total of 34 participants, including 11 women, took part in the training, which is expected to enhance employment opportunities through nature-based tourism activities in the region.
Significance of the Training
Given the rich biodiversity and cultural heritage of Manas Tiger Reserve, the initiative aims to promote eco-cultural tourism while ensuring that local communities benefit from sustainable tourism-based livelihoods.
Key Highlights
Day 1: Inaugural Session & Ecotourism Mapping
- The training was inaugurated by T. Sashidhar Reddy, DFO of Manas Tiger Reserve, along with Chandrakanta Basumatary and Vivekananda Pathak.
- Participants gained insights into eco-cultural tourism activities and conducted resource mapping of key tourism assets in the region.
Day 2: Birdwatching & Nature Exploration
- Bijay Basumatary, a renowned birding guide from Bansbari, led a session on ornithology and best practices for nature and bird guides.
- Participants engaged in birdwatching, village walks, and prepared a list of potential ecotourism assets.
Day 3: Tour Planning & Certification
- A nature trail walk was conducted under the supervision of Basumatary and Bijit Boro.
- Participants developed dummy tour schedules and underwent an assessment through a Q&A session.
- The training concluded with a valedictory session, where participants received certificates from Chandrakanta Basumatary.
Days 4 & 5: Practical Exposure
- Fourteen selected trainees gained hands-on experience through trail walks at Daodhara Reserve Forest and along Pota River.
Organizers & Supporters
The program was coordinated by Jayanta Kumar Sarma, with support from conservationists and community members, including Swapan Kumar Das, Bijay Basumatary, Shaikhong Basumatary, Bijit Boro, Bornali Boro, and others.
The Dwisa Sher Boro Cuisine Group, promoted by Aaranyak under a sustainable eco-cultural tourism initiative, arranged catering during the training. This initiative is supported by IUCN-KfW.
Impact & Future Prospects
The training aims to foster community-driven eco-tourism while strengthening conservation efforts in Manas Tiger Reserve. By equipping local youth with guiding skills, the initiative is expected to create sustainable livelihood opportunities and enhance eco-tourism in the region.