In a shift from corporate-driven approaches, a new initiative in Satoi seeks to place local communities at the centre of conservation and development, linking livelihoods with biodiversity protection.
The model, termed Community Social Responsibility (ComSR), was introduced during the three-day Satoi Connect Fest organised by the Zunheboto Forest Division, which concluded on March 28.
According to an update received here from Obed Bohovi Swu, SFS, Divisional Forest Officer, Zunheboto Forest Division, ComSR is a transformative model where every individual member of the community shares collective responsibility toward social welfare, environmental conservation, and infrastructure development, emphasizing the role of communities as active stakeholders in development and conservation.
“Unlike CSR, which is driven by corporations, ComSR is driven by the people—making responsibility participatory, inclusive, and sustainable. Promoting a Culture of “We Before Me”
ComSR complements the government’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) and other community development programmes,” It added.
The festival, held under the theme “Community First, Conservation Always,” brought together government officials, researchers, conservation organisations and local communities, reflecting a collaborative approach to protecting the biodiversity of the Satoi range while exploring livelihood opportunities through ecotourism.
Participants included representatives from institutions such as the Zoological Survey of India, North East Space Application Centre, Wildlife Institute of India, Kohima Science College and Wandering Minds College of Fine Arts, along with organisations including Aaranyak, Wildlife Conservation Society and Turtle Survival Alliance.
A key highlight of the event was a trekking program across villages in the Satoi range, showcasing the ecological richness of the area and its potential for eco-tourism.
Officials said the initiative is expected to strengthen community participation in conservation efforts while promoting sustainable livelihood opportunities in the region.
The event saw participation from Satoi town and surrounding villages.
