Idu Mishmis and Dibang Wildlife Sanctuary

April 11, 2023

Arunachal Pradesh is a state in the northeastern region of India that is known for its rich biodiversity and cultural diversity. The state is home to various indigenous tribes, one of which is the Idu Mishmi tribe. The tribe has a distinct culture and tradition that is deeply connected to the wildlife of the region, particularly the tigers and hoolock gibbons. It is currently protesting against the proposed tiger reserve in the Dibang Wildlife Sanctuary.

The National Tiger Conservation Authority

The National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) is a statutory body under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, responsible for the management of Project Tiger, India’s flagship program for tiger conservation. The NTCA works in collaboration with various state governments, local communities, and non-governmental organizations to achieve its objective of conserving tigers and their habitats.

The Dibang Wildlife Sanctuary

The Dibang Wildlife Sanctuary, located in Arunachal Pradesh, was notified in 1998 and is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including Mishmi takin, musk deer, goral, clouded leopards, snow leopards, and tigers. The Idu Mishmi tribe has a deep cultural connection with the sanctuary and its wildlife.

The Idu Mishmi Tribe

The Idu Mishmi tribe is estimated to have a population of around 12,000 people and speaks the Idu Mishmi language. The tribe has a unique belief system called ‘iyu-ena,’ which prohibits them from hunting many animals, including tigers, and emphasizes the need for conservation.

The Idu Mishmi Cultural and Literary Society

The Idu Mishmi Cultural and Literary Society (IMCLS) is the apex body of the Idu Mishmi tribe, working towards the preservation of their cultural heritage and language. The society plays a crucial role in educating the younger generation about their traditions and culture, including their connection with the wildlife of the region.

Proposed Tiger Reserve

Recently, the Indian government proposed the creation of a new tiger reserve in the Dibang Wildlife Sanctuary. While this move is aimed at conserving the tiger population in the region, the Idu Mishmi tribe fears that it will cut off access to their lands, affecting their livelihoods and traditional practices.

Special Tiger Protection Force

To address these concerns, the government has proposed the deployment of a Special Tiger Protection Force, a stricter security measure that will guard the area at all times, ensuring the safety of the wildlife and the Idu Mishmi tribe.

Biocultural Conserved Area

The proposed tiger reserve is a form of conservation governed by the state government, but the Idu Mishmi tribe has been advocating for the creation of a Community Conserved Area (CCA), a model of conservation governed entirely by local populations. This would ensure that the conservation efforts are in line with their cultural traditions and practices, ensuring their participation in the process.

Craftsmanship Skills

Apart from their connection with the wildlife, the Idu Mishmi tribe is also known for their weaving and craftsmanship skills, which have been passed down through generations.