Mr. Tambor Lyngdoh, a distinguished conservationist from Meghalaya, has dedicated more than three decades to protecting forests, preserving biodiversity, and empowering indigenous communities across Northeast India. Recognized as a pioneer of community-led environmental conservation, he has successfully combined traditional ecological knowledge with modern conservation practices to create sustainable models that benefit both people and nature. His work has transformed thousands of hectares of forest while inspiring local communities to become active custodians of their natural heritage.
His conservation journey gained significant momentum during his tenure as Secretary of the traditional governing body, the Hima, from 1996 to 2011. During this period, he introduced several pioneering initiatives, including the revival of a sacred grove, the promotion of eco-tourism, and the mobilization of local communities to safeguard forest resources. These initiatives demonstrated his conviction that lasting conservation can only be achieved when local traditions, cultural values, and community participation remain at the heart of environmental management.
Driven by this vision, he established Synjuk, an organization committed to strengthening grassroots conservation efforts. As President of the Village Forest Council since 2001, he expanded these initiatives across wider regions, leading the protection of nearly 3,000 hectares of dense forests and the restoration of approximately 9,000 hectares of degraded land. His leadership has united 86 villages in the East Khasi Hills under the Khasi Hills Community REDD+ Project and 27 villages in Ri Bhoi district, with similar conservation efforts extending into Manipur and Mizoram.
One of the most significant milestones in his career has been his leadership in implementing India’s first community-managed REDD+ project, the United Nations strategy to tackle Climate change. The initiative focuses on reducing emissions caused by deforestation and forest degradation while promoting sustainable livelihoods for indigenous communities through Payment for Ecosystem Services (PES) and sales of Carbon Credits. By bringing together ten traditional governing institutions, he established one of Asia’s most successful community-based REDD+ models, ensuring active participation from women, farmers, youth, and local leaders across more than 100 villages.
Beyond forest conservation, he has consistently emphasized livelihood development as an integral part of environmental sustainability. Women who previously depended on charcoal production were supported in adopting eco-friendly income-generating activities, while alternative cooking fuels were distributed to more than 7,700 households, significantly reducing pressure on forest ecosystems. He also introduced effective fire prevention measures, including the construction of man-made fire lines, helping protect valuable forest landscapes from recurring wildfires.
His leadership extends beyond conservation projects. Beginning his public service journey at just 18 years of age as Secretary of his village, he successfully secured government support for infrastructure development and community welfare initiatives. He has also contributed to academic research by supporting more than 30 researchers from India and abroad, strengthening scientific understanding of the region’s unique ecosystems.
The long-term impact of his work is reflected in improved forest cover, enhanced biodiversity, better water conservation, reduced soil erosion, and increased groundwater retention. Satellite assessments have confirmed significant ecological restoration across a 27,000-hectare watershed influenced by his conservation initiatives. At the same time, his programmes have generated employment opportunities and strengthened environmental awareness among local youth.
Currently serving as a Member of Biodiversity Expert Commitee member on Biodiversity Heritage sites, and honorary Wildlife Warden of East Khasi Hills since 2015, Mr. Tambor Lyngdoh continues to play a pivotal role in shaping conservation policy across the region. Honoured with the Eastern Himalayan Conservation Award 2018, through Balipara Foundation, NatWest Green Warrior Award 2020, the Meghlaya State Excellence Award 2021 and many others, he remains a respected leader whose work demonstrates that empowering indigenous communities is one of the most effective pathways to protecting forests, preserving biodiversity, and ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come.
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