In Sawdesh Nagar, Jolaibari block, South Tripura district, where floods and landslides impact daily life, residents came together to secure their future. Instead of waiting for external aid, they took the initiative to prepare 3,000 rubber saplings, ensuring both environmental regeneration and future livelihood opportunities.
Rubber farming is not new to Tripura, but for this community, it represents self-reliance, resourcefulness, and long-term sustainability.
A Community-Led Rubber Plantation for Sustainable Livelihoods
- Participants prepared 3,000 saplings, each crafting 60 sapling pouches, showcasing collective dedication.
- Roots were sustainably sourced from nearby forests, ensuring mindful use of natural resources.
- Locally purchased plastic pouches reinforced the community’s commitment to self-sufficiency.
- In 4–5 months, these saplings will be planted around the village, contributing to economic and ecological stability.
“Rubber cultivation will create a lasting livelihood for us. With patience and care, this will be a steady source of income in the coming years.” – A participant from Sawdesh Nagar
Sustainably collected rubber sapling roots
More than just an economic effort, this initiative is a testament to how local knowledge and community effort drive sustainable change.
Blending Sustainability with Economic Empowerment
The Sawdesh Nagar rubber plantation is not just about planting trees—it’s about creating long-term opportunities for income, ecological balance, and resilience. The initiative, supported by Goonj’s Cloth for Work (CFW) and Rahat programs, highlights how resources can be leveraged as a currency for participation rather than mere aid.
Rubber plantation site in Sawdesh Nagar
Be part of this movement
For over two decades, Goonj has facilitated thousands of such conversations, sparking action-led solutions where communities take charge of their own challenges. Our invitation to you is, start from where you are.. From a small change of starting a Goonj kee Gullak or Team 5000, joining a long and deep change process, or things in between- organising a collection drive, a volunteering journey, an internship, or simply walking with us signing for a Goonj monthly newsletter subscription.. More on www.goonj.org or write to [email protected].
Many options, but the choice is always one; Taking Action..
