Over the past year, Restless Development and Samriddha Pahad (opens in a new tab) have been building a partnership to explore opportunities for conservation and sustainable livelihoods in the red panda habitat of Taplejung district. Through initial activities and learning exchanges, the two organisations have been engaging with local communities, entrepreneurs and conservation actors to better understand the landscape, the challenges facing communities and biodiversity, and the opportunities for future collaboration.
This report brings together learning from these engagements, alongside a household survey conducted in the area. It explores the connections between livelihoods, youth opportunities and the conservation of red panda habitat, capturing the perspectives, challenges and opportunities identified by communities and local actors. The findings provide an evidence base to inform future approaches that support both thriving communities and the protection of this important habitat.
