VILLAGE REPORT ON MENDAL SONGMA VNRMC

COMMUNITY LED LANDSCAPE MANAGEMENT PROJECT

DISTRICT PROJECT MANAGEMENT UNIT

RESUBELPARA, NORTH GARO HILLS.

CONTENTS

SL No.	Title	Page no.
1	District Profile	2
2	About the Mendal Songma Village	2
3	History of the Mendal Songma	3
4	Social Profile	3
5	Population of the Village	4
6	Literacy rate of Village	4
7	Population of the Village	4
8	Occupation of the Village	4
9	Natural Resources	5
10	Formation of VNRMC	5
11	Signing of the Documents	6
12	Opening of the Bank Account	6
13	List of the VNRMC	7
14	Community Natural Resource Management Plan with Estimation	8
14.1	List of Intervention	8
15	Brief Justification on proposed activities	9
15.1	Community nursery	9
15.2	A forestation/tree plantation	10
15.3	Agroforestry	11
15.4	Contour trenches	12
15.5	Hot composting	13
15.6	Gabion Wall	14
15.7	Spring Chamber	15
15.8	Check Dam	16
16	Problem Analysis	17
17	Conclusion	17
18	Seasonal Calendar	18
19	The Intervention Map of Mendal village	19
20	Photographs of Intervention	20-22
21	Forest Management Plan Activities	23-24

1. DISTRICT PROFILE

The North Garo Hills District, Resubelpara form the Northern part of the Garo Hills. It is the gateway to the entire Garo Hills region and shares a border with Assam. The population is a mixture of indigenous Garo Tribes along with other minor tribes comprising Rabhas, Hajongs, Kacharis, Boros. The climate is subtropical with adequate rainfall.

The Government of Assam established the first development block with Resubelpara as its headquarters on 2^nd October, 1952. The Government of Meghalaya declared Resubelpara as an administrative unit in 1976. It was upgraded into a fully-fledged civil sub-division on 30^th April, 1982.

North Garo Hills District is the new District in the state of Meghalaya. The District was inaugurated by Dr. Mukul Sangma, former Chief Minister of Meghalaya on 27^th July 2012.The district headquarter namely Resubelpara is located on vast plain lands along the banks of Damring River. The District is bounded by Assam (Goalpara District). The District occupies an area of 1,113 sq km and the population is 1,36,3961 as per 2011 census.

2. ABOUT THE MENDAL SONGMA VILLAGE

Mendal Songma is one of the villages of North Garo Hills district which falls under Bajengdoba Community and Rural Development Block. The Village is located about 22 Kms away from Resubelpara, the Headquarter of the North Garo Hills district. The village lies about 2 kms away from the National Highway 51. Agriculture forms the main source of livelihood for the village. The place is very rich in natural resources in terms of forest and different forms of water bodies.

The village consists of an approximate population of 520 out of which 260 are male and 260 are female. The village consists of about 96 households and the entire area falls under the supervision of A.karok Aking Nokma. The village is mainly headed by the Sordar or the Headman. Their main source of income and livelihood is based on their agricultural productivity. They produce both agricultural and horticultural products and rely on those products for their livelihood and survival.

The family members of the Mendal Songma region mostly rely on the natural resources and utilize the readily available products. The family mostly belongs to the marginal family. In order to earn their livelihood, the villagers came out with the mission of producing the forest products and selling their products. The villagers have very few sources to depend upon.

The main language spoken by the people and their dialect is ‘AWE’. The people of Mendal Songma go to the nearest market Gokgol and Dingok for their essential commodities like ginger, chilies, pumpkins.

There are several types of denomination of Christianity in the village of which Baptist and Catholic forms the major part. People of Mendal Songma depend on agriculture, forest products and plantation were the main occupation of the village. Some of them are working in the Government sector, some are in Educational institutions and few are occupied in local business.

3. HISTORY OF THE VILLAGE

The village came into existence in the year 1922 and was named as Rambu village. In the ancient time in the year 1927, there was a man named Menda. Once Menda went out hunting and was attacked by the tiger, since then the village was named as Mendal. Later they decided to give the name of their village with the decision of locality which was Mendal Songma with a joining word “Songma”.

Pa Oran Marak, Pa Rakran Marak, Pa Simin Nengsin Sangma, were the first people to live in the village. There were only a few households which later grew in number and population. The people were mainly engaged in Agriculture for sustenance. 100% of the population depends on agriculture.

As time passes and circumstances change, it's important for Mendal Songma to adapt to new challenges, such as changes in climate and market demands. Sustainable agricultural practices, crop diversification, and modern farming techniques can help the village maintain its agricultural heritage while ensuring a prosperous and resilient future for its inhabitants.

Preserving and sharing the village's history and agricultural practices can also serve as a valuable cultural heritage for future generations and outsiders who want to learn about the unique aspects of Mendal Songma's community and way of life.

4. SOCIAL PROFILE

Community participation – The people of the village play a vital role in cleanliness. Entire village conducts the community cleaning drive once a month. They also participate in other work like MGNREGA.

The following are some small groups and associations exist in the village they are:

1. ASHA (Accredited Social Health Activist)

2. Self-Help Groups

3. Women’s Association

Some other development of the village they are:

1. The Indian Government provides the electricity to the household.100% of the household has been electrified

2.100% of the household have a bank account.

3. Old age pension is distributed to aged people.

There are two denominations of Christianity they are; Catholic and Baptist. 100% of the population are Christian. The following are some of the schemes that are being implemented in the village. They are:

1. NOAPS (National Old Age Pension Scheme)

2. Anganwadi Centre

3. BPL (Below Poverty Line)

4. APL (Above Poverty Line)

5. NREGA

6. Widows pension scheme

5. POPULATION OF THE VILLAGE

AGE GROUP	MALE	FEMALE	TOTAL
0-4	22	14	36
5-14	33	31	54
15-30	105	115	215
30-60	95	91	186
ABOVE 60	9	5	14

Mendal Songma village has a higher literacy rate compared to any other district in North Garo Hills District. The literacy rate of Male was 98.12% and female literacy rate was 99.53%.

6. Occupation:

The main occupations of the villagers are farming, local business and some of them are in Government sector and educational departments.

Occupation	Number of Households (HHs)
Farmer	34 HHs
Govt. job	25 HHs
Teaching	23 HHs
Business	14 HHs

Fuel Type:

The entire village used firewood, out of which 70 numbers of HH also used LPG in the village. The village has good electricity connection and the entire village is electrified.

Fuel Type	Total HH
Charcoal	0
Biomass	0
Wood	26HH
LPG	70HH
Electric Heater	0
Kerosene	0

7. NATURAL RESOURCES

Natural Resource: Through GIS the data has been collected and the area of benefited is 64.48 ha. The total forest cover area is 49.46 ha. Water bodies coverage 4.05 ha. And total degraded area is 28.25 ha and under Agri-horticulture is 59.99 ha. Agriculture is their main means of livelihood.

Water Bodies: The community has 5 streams they are Rambo chiring, Gorigalram chiring, Songgitcham chiring, Menda chiring is also known as Mendal chiring. All the water bodies are perennial but to some extent during the dry season the water of the stream is reduced.

Forest Land: LULC (Land Use/ Land Cover) provides that forest land in the village is 49.46 ha. Deforestation and hunting are strictly restricted in the community forest reserve. The village forest cover includes some indigenous fruit and non-fruit bearing species like Sal, Gasampe, Bolchim, Sisoo, Bolchu, Agatchi and tebret etc. There are large numbers of Fodder species like Nengitchak and Jackfruit. Due to the reduction in forest cover and unavailability of food the existing flora & fauna such as Porcupine, Spotted Deer are in danger or non- existence as on date.The Community has Medical plants in the village reserve as it grows in natural habitat.

8. Formation of the VNRMC

First the DPMU team conducts mobilization at the village after which the villagers agreed to take up the project in their village and the ground survey was done and with the findings such as like,

1. Actively performing VEC

2. Scope of water sources to be developed

3. Soil Erosion at the cultivable land

5. The community members expressed their need to build spring chambers, afforestation and agroforestry.

Contact with the sordar of the village thereafter conduct an awareness program on the 4^th September 2019. The CLLMP team met the sordar/headman of the village, and planned for the PRA exercise in the village. There was a briefing of the project and a video was shown on NRM activities. The villagers have accepted the project and signed the Green Charter. It’s been 2 years since CLLMP adopted the village with 9 VNRMC members and 3 VCF’s are also identified. The VNRMC was formed on 4th September 2019.

The Formation of the Village Natural Resource Management Committee was done on 17^th September 2019 in a public meeting in the presence of the entire village and the CLLMP staffs. The community itself elected the President, the Secretary and the other executive members of the Committee.

9. Signing of Documents

After the interactive session, the village signed the Expression of Interest (EOI), Village Grant Agreement (VGA) and Green charter followed by the selection of candidates for the Village Natural Resource Management Committee. The Village Executive Committee (VEC) and the entire community carried out the procedure and elected the members of the VNRMC.

10. OPENING OF BANK ACCOUNT

The opening of the bank account was initiated after the village signed the EOI (Expression of Interest), the VGA (Village Grant Agreement) and the Green Charter. Mendal Songma village opened their VNRMC account on the 09th of October 2019.

1. Principles of Community Procurement

2. Benefits of Community Procurement

3. Important aspects undertaken by Community Procurement.

4. Procurement Process/Steps

5. Function of Purchase Committee

6. Important Procurement records to be maintained

7. Financial limits and methods

Listed below are the members of the VNRMC:

Village Natural Resource Management Committee (9-member committee constituted from Village Council, 4 Women’s group, youth, VEC)
SL NO.		Name in full		Gender M/F	Age in (yrs	Education		Designation		Occupation		Community	Contact No and Email address
1		Chingsrang Marak		M	30	HSSLC		President		Farmer		Garo	7005544362
2		Grestilla D Sangma		F	54	SSLC		Secretary		Famer		Garo	8974271720
3		SilgrikMarak		M	28	High School		Booker keeper		Farmer		Garo	6009263821
4		EbalsonSangma		M	61	High School		Purchase Committee		Farmer		Garo	9612768953
5		Karmelia R Sangma		F	56	High School		Member		Farmer		Garo	9862543534
6		BinsonSangma		M	40	High School		Member		Farmer		Garo	8730885949
7		Dr. Gabriel Sangma		M	60	MSW		Coordinator		Social Worker		Garo	7005871757
8		ElishaSangma		F	32	High School		Member		Farmer		Garo	8787776197
	9	Rinesh R Sangma	F		30	High school	Facilitator		Farmer		Garo		7005188490

11.Community Natural Resource Management Plan with estimation

The CNRMPs (Community Natural Resource Management Plans) shared with the BDOs (Block Development Officers) will ensure that higher-level authorities are aware of the village's initiatives and can provide additional support or convergence of resources where needed.

By planning interventions over a five-year timeframe, the village is adopting a long-term perspective and recognizing that some natural resource management efforts may require time to yield significant results. This forward-thinking approach is essential for sustainable development and the conservation of their environment.

Ultimately, the success of these interventions will depend on the active participation and ownership of the entire community. When the villagers are involved and invested in the process, the chances of successful implementation and positive outcomes increase significantly.

The commitment of Mendal Songma's community to conserve and improve their natural resources not only benefits their own well-being but also contributes to larger environmental and ecological goals. Their actions can serve as a model for other communities facing similar challenges, inspiring them to take positive steps towards sustainable development and the protection of their local ecosystems for future generations.

11.1 LIST OF INTERVENTION

SL. NO	Name of proposed Intervention	Site	Land ownership	Start Date (dd/mm/yy)	Completion date(dd/mm/yy)
1	Check Dam	Mendal Stream	Community Land	03-Feb-20	06-Jun-20
		Rambu chiring	Community land	11-Nov-20	30-Nov-20
		Songgitcham chiring		04-May-22	23-May-22
		Rongsime stream	Sumol Marak and community land	11-Oct-21	27-Oct-21
		Atchu chiring	Sumol Marak and community land	27-Jul-22	13-Aug-22
		Last chiring		12-Sep-22	28-Sep-22
2	Hot Composting	Near nursery	Community Land	16-Jun-21	24-Jun-21
3	Water storage	Rongsime Chiring		05-Dec-23	21-Dec-23
4	Afforestation (1st, 2nd, 3rd)	Songma Reserve	Community Land	20-Jul-20	23-Aug-20
		Didram Chi Rikam	Community Land	06-May-21	15-Jun-21
		Songma reserve	Community Land	13-Jun-22	18-Jun-22
5	Community Nursery	Community Land	Community Land	07-Aug-20	09-Dec-20
6	AgroForestry Agro Forestry 2nd Year	Private Land	RenishSangma	07-Aug-21	17-Aug-21
		Private Land	RenishSangma	27-June-22	29-June-22
7	Gabion Wall	MendalSongmaApal	Mali Marak	14-Feb-22	26-Feb-22
		Tebonggre		28-Sep-22	12-Oct-22
8	Contour Trenches	Private Land	Carmilla Sangma	28-Apr-22	30-Apr-22
		Rubber Bagan	Community land	02-May-22	05-May-22
9	Spring chamber box	Gore Galram	Community land	22-Aug-22	02-Sep-22
		Bolbok chimik	Private	17-Oct-22	02-Nov-22
10	FMP	Permanent Nursery		01-03-23
		Forest fire control		15-Feb-23	15-Feb-23
		In-situ Ex-situ conservation		11-Mar-23	11-Mar-23
		Assisted Natural Regeneration		18-April-23	18-April-23
		Enrichment plantation		03-April-23	03-April-23

12. Brief Justification on the Proposed Activities

The villagers of Mendal Songma have decided to treat a significant portion of land, approximately 103.16 hectares or more. This proactive decision to take responsibility for a larger area shows their strong commitment to conserving and improving their natural resources.

The willingness of the community to contribute through their own efforts demonstrates a sense of ownership and dedication towards the well-being of their village. By actively participating in the treatment of additional land, the villagers are actively contributing to the sustainable management of their resources.

Moreover, seeking convergence with state and central government schemes can be instrumental in securing additional resources and support for the planned interventions. Collaborating with government initiatives can enhance the impact and effectiveness of their efforts, making them more sustainable and scalable.

Through their combined efforts, the villagers' initiatives have the potential to create a positive and lasting impact on the landscape, water bodies, and forests of Mendal Songma. By treating a substantial area of land and ensuring its proper conservation and management, they are working towards safeguarding their natural resources for both the present and future generations.

This community-driven and convergent approach exemplifies how local communities can take charge of their development and environmental conservation, becoming stewards of their own resources while leveraging external support to achieve their goals effectively. The determination and spirit of collaboration displayed by the villagers hold great promise for the sustainable future of Mendal Songma.

12.1 Community Nursery:

Nurseries indeed play a crucial role in environmental conservation and sustainability by preserving and supplying seeds and seedlings of various plant species. In the context of Mendal Songma village and under the CLLMP scheme, these nurseries serve multiple purposes:

Seedling Production: Nurseries are essential in raising healthy seedlings that will be later planted in various areas, such as open forests, catchment areas, reserve forests, and private lands. By cultivating high-quality seedlings, the village can ensure successful reforestation and afforestation efforts.

Biodiversity Conservation: Different types of plants are targeted for growth in nurseries, including short rotation tree species like segun, neem, arecanut, aprel, amla, punga, Sali, and others. By growing a diverse range of plants, the village contributes to biodiversity conservation and the restoration of native flora.

Environmental Restoration: Planting seedlings from nurseries in open forest areas and catchment areas aids in environmental restoration. This helps in stabilizing soil, preventing erosion, and creating habitats for various wildlife species.

Community Ownership: The Mendal Songma Village Natural Resource Management Committee (VNRMC) taking on the challenge of growing plants in community nurseries showcases their commitment to sustainable natural resource management. This ownership and engagement foster a sense of responsibility and pride among the villagers in caring for their environment.

12.2 Tree Plantation/ Afforestation: The decision taken by the people of Mendal Songma to protect and preserve the open forest is commendable, considering the increasing climate changes and loss of biodiversity. Afforestation is an effective approach to mitigate the impact of climate change, enhance the environment, and improve the quality of life in the village.

By implementing afforestation in the open forest and community lands, the villagers can restore degraded areas, increase green cover, and create habitats for various flora and fauna. This will not only contribute to carbon sequestration but also help in regulating local climate, improving air quality, and conserving water resources.

Afforestation, on the other hand, involves integrating trees with agricultural practices. By incorporating trees on farmlands and in the vicinity of schools, residents, and non-profit organizations, the villagers can experience multiple benefits. Afforestation systems provide shade, fodder for livestock, and diverse products like fruits and nuts, thus enhancing the agricultural productivity and economic resilience of the community.

Moreover, planting trees in neighborhoods can create a more pleasant and healthy living environment, reducing heat island effects and enhancing overall well-being. Community participation in these initiatives is crucial, as it fosters a sense of ownership and responsibility for the protection of the open forest and the overall environment. Collective efforts can also lead to better planning and effective management of the tree planting activities.

In addition to climate change mitigation and biodiversity conservation, tree planting can contribute to creating livelihood opportunities, environmental education, and cultural and recreational values for the villagers.

Overall, the decision to engage in tree planting and afforestation demonstrates the community's commitment to sustainable natural resource management and a better future for Mendal Songma. Through these efforts, the villagers are taking significant steps towards building resilience and adapting to the challenges posed by climate change while preserving their rich biodiversity and enhancing the overall ecological balance of the region.

BEFORE DURING

AFTER

12.3 Agro forestry:

Agro forestry is indeed a land use management system where trees or shrubs are grown in combination with crops or pastureland. It's great to hear that the CLLMP project in Mendal Songma village is initiating agroforestry practices, as it can bring numerous benefits to the community and the environment.

The concept of agro ecological succession in agroforestry is akin to natural ecosystems, where different species of trees, shrubs, and crops are intentionally combined to create a diverse and dynamic farming system. This approach sets off a chain of events that can enhance the overall functionality and sustainability of the farming system in Mendal Songma's community land.

Enhanced Yields: By integrating trees and shrubs with crops, agroforestry can lead to increased yields of staple food crops. Trees can provide shade and shelter, create microclimates that benefit crops, and even act as windbreaks, reducing crop damage.

Increased Biodiversity: The presence of diverse plant species attracts a variety of beneficial insects, birds, and other wildlife, promoting biodiversity and creating a more balanced ecosystem.

Improved Soil Structure and Health: Trees with deep root systems help improve soil structure, enhancing water infiltration and nutrient cycling. Tree leaves and organic matter also contribute to soil fertility.

Reduced Erosion: The combination of trees and crops can reduce soil erosion, as tree roots stabilize the soil and reduce the impact of heavy rainfall.

Carbon Sequestration: Trees are excellent carbon sinks, absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and sequestering it in their biomass and the soil, helping to mitigate climate change.

Sustainable Resource Management: Agroforestry diversifies income sources for farmers by providing multiple products like fruits, nuts, timber, and fodder, reducing dependence on a single crop.

Climate Resilience: The diverse ecosystem created through agroforestry is more resilient to climate variability, as it can adapt to changing conditions.

Water Management: Trees can regulate water use, making water available to crops during dry periods and reducing waterlogging during heavy rainfall.

By implementing agroforestry, Mendal Songma village can create a more resilient and sustainable farming system that addresses the challenges of food security, climate change, and environmental conservation. It also fosters a deeper connection between the community and their natural resources, promoting better land stewardship and a healthier environment for current and future generations.The success of agroforestry in Mendal Songma will depend on community involvement, knowledge sharing, and support from the CLLMP project and other stakeholders. Over time, the benefits of this approach are likely to become even more evident, encouraging further adoption of agroforestry practices in the region.

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AFTER

12.4 Contour Trenches:

The construction of contour trenches along a hillside in Mendal Songma community reserve forest is a common soil conservation measure used to manage water runoff and erosion. However, it is essential to carefully assess the impact of such interventions to ensure they are implemented sustainably and do not cause unintended consequences for the forest ecosystem.

The benefits of contour trenches include:

Runoff Reduction: Contour trenches are designed to slow down the flow of water across the slope, reducing the rate of runoff and preventing soil erosion.

Increased Percolation: As runoff is reduced, more water has the opportunity to percolate into the soil, contributing to groundwater recharge and maintaining water availability for vegetation and downstream communities.

Soil Conservation: Contour trenches help trap sediment carried by water runoff, preventing soil loss and maintaining soil fertility.

Biodiversity Support: By controlling erosion and preserving soil health, contour trenches can help maintain a suitable environment for a diverse range of plant and animal species.

However, the construction of 500 contour trenches in Mendal Songma reserve forest may have some potential concerns:

Biodiversity Impact: While contour trenches can benefit the environment, excessive construction might lead to the disturbance of native vegetation and habitat loss for certain species.

Natural Water Flow: Altering the natural water flow through the construction of numerous trenches could impact existing watercourses and aquatic ecosystems downstream.

Erosion of Forest Land: If contour trenches are dug in large numbers without proper planning, they may cause soil disturbance and erosion in the reserve forest area.

To address these concerns and ensure the sustainable implementation of contour trenches, the following steps are recommended:

Environmental Impact Assessment: Conduct a thorough environmental impact assessment before implementing further contour trenches to understand potential consequences on the forest ecosystem and biodiversity.

Conservation Planning: Develop a comprehensive conservation plan that considers the specific needs and vulnerabilities of the Mendal Songma reserve forest.

Limited Intervention: Restrict the number of contour trenches and focus on strategic locations where they can have the most significant impact on runoff control and soil conservation without causing undue harm to the forest ecosystem.

Community Involvement: Engage the local community in decision-making and implementation processes, as they have valuable insights into the area's ecology and can actively participate in sustainable conservation efforts.

Monitoring and Evaluation: Regularly monitor the impact of contour trenches and assess their effectiveness in mitigating erosion and maintaining ecosystem health.

By adopting a more cautious and thoughtful approach, the Mendal Songma community can continue to manage water runoff and erosion effectively while preserving the integrity and biodiversity of their valuable reserve forest. Collaboration with relevant authorities and experts can ensure that conservation efforts align with best practices for sustainable land management.

12.5 Hot Composting

The decision of the villagers to implement hot composting as an intervention in Mendal Songma village is a commendable step towards sustainable waste management and soil enrichment. Hot composting is an efficient method that accelerates the decomposition process, leading to the production of finished compost in a shorter period of time compared to traditional composting methods. It can offer several benefits to the community and the environment:

Faster Compost Production: Hot composting optimizes microbial activity, which speeds up the decomposition process. This results in the production of nutrient-rich compost in a matter of weeks, compared to months in traditional composting.

Nutrient-Rich Compost: The high temperatures in hot composting help break down organic matter more effectively, resulting in compost with higher nutrient content. This nutrient-rich compost can enhance soil fertility and support healthier plant growth.

Weed and Pathogen Control: The high temperatures achieved in hot composting can kill weed seeds and harmful pathogens, reducing the risk of weed growth and plant diseases when using the compost in the fields.

Waste Reduction and Recycling: Hot composting offers a practical solution to manage organic waste from the village, reducing the amount of waste sent to landfills and promoting recycling.

Climate Benefits: Composting organic matter instead of sending it to landfills reduces methane emissions, a potent greenhouse gas, contributing to climate change mitigation.

Improved Soil Structure: The addition of compost to the soil can improve soil structure, water retention, and aeration, leading to healthier soil and better plant growth.

While hot composting does require some special equipment and diligent management, the benefits it offers make it a worthwhile endeavor for the CNRMP village. The investment of time and effort in implementing hot composting can have positive long-term impacts on the village's agriculture, environment, and waste management practices.

To ensure the success of hot composting in Mendal Songma, the following steps can be taken:

Community Training: Provide training sessions and workshops on hot composting techniques to empower villagers with the knowledge and skills required for successful composting.

Compost Monitoring: Regularly monitor the compost piles to ensure they reach the required temperatures and are properly maintained for optimal decomposition.

Community Participation: Encourage active community participation in the composting process, fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility for waste management.

Integration with Agriculture: Educate farmers on the benefits of using compost in agriculture and promote its application to enhance crop yields and soil health.

By implementing hot composting as a part of their CNRMP, Mendal Songma village can not only manage organic waste effectively but also contribute to sustainable agricultural practices and environmental conservation. The initiative can serve as a model for other communities looking to adopt eco-friendly waste management practices and improve soil fertility.

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AFTER

12.6 Gabion Wall

The implementation of the Gabion wall as part of the CLLMP (Community-Based Landscape Management Project) scheme in Mendal Songma village is a valuable measure to address erosion and water management issues along the road adjacent to the fields. Gabion walls are constructed using rocks, gravel bags, sand, and iron fences to create a small barrier across a swale or drainage ditch. This intervention offers several important benefits to the community and the environment:

Erosion Control: Gabion walls reduce the effective slope of the channel and slow down the velocity of flowing water. By doing so, they help to prevent soil erosion, protecting the fields and road from being washed away during heavy rainfall events.

Sediment Settling: The reduced water velocity behind the Gabion wall allows sediment carried by runoff to settle. This helps in retaining soil on the fields and preventing sediments from clogging drainage systems and waterways.

Water Conservation: By capturing and slowing down surface water runoff, Gabion walls promote infiltration into the ground, helping to recharge groundwater aquifers. This, in turn, contributes to a more drought-resistant water supply, benefiting both agriculture and the community's water needs.

Stability and Longevity: Gabion walls are durable and can withstand various environmental conditions, providing long-term protection against erosion and flooding.

Cost-Effectiveness: Constructing Gabion walls can be a cost-effective erosion control measure compared to other engineering interventions. They utilize locally available materials and do not require extensive maintenance.

Habitat Creation: Over time, Gabion walls can create microhabitats that support plant growth and provide habitat for small animals and insects.

To ensure the success of the Gabion wall construction, it is important to follow these considerations:

Proper Design and Construction: The design of the Gabion wall should be based on site-specific conditions and the expected flow of water. Proper construction techniques and material selection are crucial for the wall's stability and effectiveness.

Community Participation: Engaging the local community in the construction process fosters ownership and ensures that the wall meets the needs and expectations of the villagers.

Monitoring and Maintenance: Regular monitoring is essential to assess the performance of the Gabion wall over time. Any required maintenance or repairs should be carried out promptly to sustain its effectiveness.

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AFTER

y implementing Gabion walls along the road adjacent to the fields, Mendal Songma village can effectively manage erosion, conserve water resources, and create a more resilient landscape. This intervention aligns with the goals of the CLLMP scheme, promoting sustainable land management practices and supporting the community's well-being.

12.7 Spring chamber

The cultural significance of springs cannot be understated. Traditionally, springs have been considered sacred and hold a special place in the cultural and social fabric of the community. They are often associated with myths, folklore, and rituals, making them cultural pivots that strengthen the community's identity and sense of belonging.

The cultural importance of springs is likely to have several implications for Mendal Songma village:

Community Bond: The reliance on springs for water fosters a strong sense of community among the villagers. Shared management and responsibility for this precious resource strengthen social bonds and cooperation within the community.

Environmental Conservation: The cultural reverence for springs may lead to practices that protect the surrounding natural environment. Villagers may be more inclined to preserve the forests and watersheds that contribute to the spring's water source.

Sustainable Water Management: With the cultural significance of springs in mind, the community may adopt sustainable water management practices to ensure the longevity of this important resource.

Cultural Heritage: Springs contribute to the rich cultural heritage of the village, passing down traditional beliefs and practices from generation to generation.

To preserve the cultural importance and ecological health of springs, it is essential for the community and relevant authorities to work together in their management. This may include:

Conservation Efforts: Ensuring the protection of the springs' water sources and surrounding ecosystems through sustainable land use and forest conservation practices.

Water Governance: Formulating community-based water governance systems that involve the villagers in decision-making and equitable distribution of water resources.

Education and Awareness: Raising awareness among the community members about the significance of springs and the need for sustainable water management practices.

Tourism Management: If tourism potential exists, managing eco-cultural tourism responsibly to avoid negative impacts on the springs and their surroundings.

12.8 Check Dam

The construction of a check dam at Mendal Songma reserve Chiring through the CLLMP scheme has proven to be a blessing for the Mendal Songma community. The check dam provides much-needed irrigation and domestic water supply, addressing the challenges faced during the dry months when water availability is limited. This intervention has significant positive impacts on the community's livelihoods and agricultural productivity.

The proposal to construct four additional check dams at different locations—Reserve Chiring, Rambu Chiring, Rongsime Chiring, Songgitcham Chiring, and Atchu Chiring—will further enhance water availability and benefits for around 80 households. Ensuring a stable water supply throughout the year is essential for improving agricultural production, especially during the critical months of August to October when water scarcity can lead to reduced productivity and income losses.

The benefits of constructing these additional check dams are manifold:

Improved Agricultural Productivity: With a consistent water supply, farmers can adopt better irrigation practices and grow crops year-round, leading to increased yields and income.

Livelihood Diversification: A reliable water source encourages diversification of crops, allowing the community to cultivate a variety of crops that are suitable for different seasons.

Domestic Water Supply: Besides irrigation, the check dams will also serve as a domestic water source, ensuring access to clean water for household needs.

Water Conservation: Check dams help conserve water by impounding runoff during the rainy season, which can then be used during the dry months, reducing water wastage.

Economic Empowerment: Increased agricultural productivity and income can uplift the economic well-being of the community, improving their living standards.

Resilience to Climate Variability: Consistent water availability supports the community's resilience to climate variability and helps them cope with climate change impacts.

However, it's essential to approach the construction of these check dams with careful planning and environmental considerations. Environmental impact assessments should be conducted to understand any potential impacts on the ecosystem and surrounding areas. Additionally, community participation and consultation with local stakeholders are crucial to ensure that the dams are constructed in suitable locations that do not negatively affect the environment or other communities downstream.

By carefully implementing these proposed check dams, Mendal Songma village can unlock the full potential of their agricultural land and secure a more prosperous and sustainable future for its residents. This water resource development project is a valuable example of how targeted interventions can uplift rural communities and support their overall well-being.

BEFORE DURING

AFTER

13. Problem Analysis

The information collected through random one-to-one interviews and group discussions provides valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities faced by the community in Mendal Songma. Some of the key findings from the problem analysis are as follows:

Government Schemes and Projects: The community feels the need for more government schemes and projects to address various socio-economic issues and enhance livelihood opportunities.

Literacy Rate: The village boasts a high literacy rate of 90%, which is a positive indicator for education and awareness within the community.

Government Job Opportunities: Despite a high literacy rate, there is a limited enrollment in government jobs, indicating the need for increased employment opportunities.

Forest Management: The condition of the forest is relatively good, as most of these forests are owned and managed by the communities themselves. This highlights the effectiveness of community-based natural resource management.

Traditional Conflict Resolution: Disagreements and conflicts in the village are addressed by the traditional institution of village governance called the village sordar, showcasing the community's reliance on indigenous conflict resolution methods.

Livelihoods: The majority of the population is engaged in business and farming, reflecting the importance of agriculture and entrepreneurial activities in the village's economy.

Access to Water: The village is divided into nine springs, which provide relatively better access to water compared to one stream where water scarcity has led to conflicts in the area. This indicates the need for better water management and distribution.

Healthcare Facilities: The community identifies a need for the development of ASHA (Accredited Social Health Activist) and Anganwadi services, as well as a primary health center (PHC) to improve healthcare access.

NREGA Implementation: The villagers express the importance of implementing the NREGA (National Rural Employment Guarantee Act) scheme, which can provide employment opportunities and boost rural development.

Overall, the problem analysis highlights the community's aspirations and challenges, providing valuable information for planning and implementing development interventions under the CLLMP scheme. By addressing these concerns and building on the community's strengths, the project can have a positive and lasting impact on the village's sustainability and well-being.

14. CONCLUSION

It's truly inspiring to see the positive mindset and dedication of the people of Mendal Songma village and the region in maintaining, protecting, and developing their natural resources. The residents' efforts in safeguarding these areas have not only led to the betterment of the environment but have also contributed to an increase in biodiversity, benefiting various forms of life, including animals.

The fact that the community has been proactive in adhering to laws and regulations for the betterment of society showcases their responsible and conscientious approach to development. The development achieved so far is a testament to the collective efforts and commitment of the residents, reflecting their strong sense of ownership and responsibility towards their environment.

The Community Led Landscape Management Project (CLLMP) has played a significant role in facilitating positive changes in Mendal Songma village and other communities across North Garo Hills and Meghalaya. The collaboration between the CLLMP team, VNRMC, and VCFs has been instrumental in implementing various activities aimed at conserving and enhancing natural resources.

As the CLLMP project continues until 2023, there is a clear understanding that maintaining and developing the region's natural resources will require ongoing support and assistance from various organizations. This further highlights the community's commitment to sustainable development and their openness to collaboration and partnership for the greater good.

The progress of project activities in Mendal Songma and other CLLMP villages is a testament to the determination and efforts of all involved stakeholders. The project's impact is likely to extend beyond the five-year period, leaving a positive legacy for the entire region.

As the project continues to move forward, it is essential to celebrate the achievements made so far and continue to build on the successes. By maintaining a collaborative and community-led approach, Mendal Songma and other CLLMP villages can secure a better and more sustainable future for themselves and the generations to come.

SEASONAL CALENDAR

SL.NO	CRITERIA	JAN	FEB	MAR	APR	MAY	JUN	JUL	AUG	SEP	OCT	NOV	DEC
1	Water Scarcity	3	1	1
2	Prone to sickness	3					1	1				1	2
3	Rainfall			3	2	1	1	3	2
4	Paddy cultivation					1	1	3
5	Paddy harvesting										1	2	1
6	Ginger cultivation	2				3	1	2					1
7	Tree plantation				1	2	2
8	Crop cultivation
9	Crop harvesting		1		2	1	2					2	3
10	Festive season											1	1
11	Forest fire		1	1
12	Collection of wood	1										1	1

The CLLMP team also mapped the seasonal calendar of Mendal Songma Village to help identify heavy workload periods, periods of relative ease, credit crunch, diseases, food security, wage availability etc. This will prove helpful in project planning and project timeline framing.

PHOTOGRAPHS OF THE INTERVENTION

FOREST MANAGEMENT PLAN ACTIVITIES

Report prepared by

Knowledge Management, DPMU

Resubelpara, North Garo Hills