A wild Himalayan spice is helping 200 families protect 100 sq km of forest while generating an income of Rs 39 lakh

A wild Himalayan spice known locally as Khagi, Erma, Shyein or Yarma (Zanthoxylum) is helping 200 families in Arunachal Pradesh's West Kameng district earn an income of Rs 39 lakh.

The community-led harvesting and marketing system for Khagi in the Mandala Phudung Khellong Community Conserved Area (CCA) generates funds for forest patrols and biodiversity monitoring.

The initiative provides a direct economic incentive for indigenous communities to protect 100 sq km of forest and agricultural land, contributing to transboundary wildlife habitat conservation.

WWF India worked with indigenous communities and traditional village institutions to strengthen CCAs and establish the spice's value chain.