For over two decades, the Royal Society for Protection of Nature, RSPN has been safeguarding the critically endangered White-bellied Heron. Its work goes beyond conservation. The organization is also transforming the lives of communities residing within the bird’s habitat. One such village, Devithang, in Tsirang’s Rangthangling Gewog, has seen remarkable benefits. Let us take a closer look at how conservation efforts drive unexpected socio-economic change.
In the quiet village of Devithang, life was not always as promising. Kharka Singh Chhetri, Chairman of the Devithang Community Forest, recalls a time when villagers struggled financially as they did not have any cash crops.
However, that changed when RSPN introduced livelihood initiatives such as supplying high-yield seeds, high-value timber saplings, and even community fisheries.
Since 2020, the 28-member community has received more than 1,500 timber saplings, grown on two acres of land.
They have planted teak, cypress, duabanga, and agarwood, among others, creating a sustainable resource for the future.
Kharka Singh Chhetri, Chairman said “We received a variety of saplings from RSPN: litchi, areca nuts, mangoes, and vegetable seeds. Last year, we even got watermelon seeds. RSPN has been our main source of support. Before this, our village was struggling, as we didn’t have cash crops like mandarin and cardamom. Now, we cultivate vegetables, and it has helped us significantly.”
Beyond agriculture, the community has also embraced eco-tourism through RSPN’s support. They have developed eco-trails and a homestay, bringing in new sources of income.
For Kharka and the villagers, the White-bellied Heron is not just an endangered species, it is a symbol of good fortune.
He added that protecting these rare birds which are constantly battling for their survival has become their shared responsibility.
“Since I joined as local community member in 2008, I have been monitoring along the river sides. We even encounter some people fishing, and it is our duty to tell them not to disturb the White-bellied Herons. People did not understand much in the past but now many come to terms with it.”
This collaborative conservation effort extends beyond RSPN. The Department of Forest and Park Services works closely with the community people to ensure a mutual commitment to protecting both bird and local livelihoods.
Currently, the RSPN’s restoration efforts for the White-bellied Heron span six districts: Tsirang, Dagana, Punakha, Wangdue Phodrang, Trongsa, and Zhemgang.
Through conservation, communities like Devithang are not only preserving nature but also securing a better future for themselves.
Devika Pradhan & Pema Tshewang
Edited by Tshering Zam
