J4L Wins Top Honor at NEITA 2025 for Eco-Cultural Tourism Excellence

The 'Journey for Learning' (J4L), a community-led eco-cultural tourism initiative backed by Aaranyak, has claimed the title of Best Community-Based Tourism Initiative at the Northeast India Tourism Awards (NEITA) 2025. Announced on October 11, NEITA celebrates its first edition this year, aiming to highlight tourism trailblazers in the region's eight states.

Dubbed the 'Oscars of Northeast Tourism,' NEITA seeks to highlight excellence across travel, culture, and innovation. J4L, particularly, merges hands-on learning opportunities with the safeguarding of indigenous knowledge. Situated in the Kaziranga-Karbi Anglong and Manas landscapes of Assam, this initiative fosters sustainable tourism through active participation in managing natural resources, while also creating livelihoods for local residents.

J4L bridges visitors with the Karbi community's environmental, wildlife, and cultural traditions, demonstrating the power of community-driven models to bolster both conservation efforts and rural advancement. The tourism activities in the Manas region incorporate the Bodo community's 'live with nature principle,' emphasizing harmonious coexistence, community forest conservation, and rejuvenation of wildlife habitats.

Initiatives like J4L have catalyzed the advancement of community-based eco-cultural tourism in Karbi Anglong, Assam, through robust community involvement. Central to its achievements are 10 women-led Kindulangso homestays, 11 community-led Langkiri guiding groups, and 10 women-led 'Theso SHG' catering services, all contributing to sustainable living and ecosystem conservation.

These combined efforts have resulted in over 1,614 bed-nights, more than 4,000 meals, and 788 guided nature experiences. Income from 'Ingnam Kengkam' has seen progressive growth, peaking in 2024, underscoring how community participation drives J4L's success in marrying traditional wisdom, women's leadership, and eco-tourism for enhanced resilience and environmental sustainability.

Committed to biodiversity conservation and the support of indigenous communities in Kaziranga-Karbi Anglong and Manas landscapes, Aaranyak, in partnership with IUCN - Kfw, promotes efficient natural resource management, sustainable livelihood solutions, education, and awareness initiatives.