Forest other than reserved forest

The forests other than reserved forests within the Mising Autonomous Council (MAC) constitute vital natural resources that are integral to the socio-economic and environmental fabric of the region. These forests often referred to as community forests or village forests are managed collectively by local communities, including the Mising tribe. They provide a range of ecosystem services, including timber, non-timber forest products (NTFPs), clean water, and habitat for biodiversity. The community forests play a significant role in supporting the livelihoods of the Mising people, who rely on them for fuelwood, fodder, medicinal plants, and various forest-based livelihood activities such as bamboo and cane harvesting, beekeeping, and agroforestry. Furthermore, these forests hold cultural significance for the Mising community, serving as sites for traditional rituals, cultural practices, and biodiversity conservation efforts. Effective management and sustainable utilization of community forests are paramount for ensuring the well-being of both the environment and the local communities within the MAC. Collaborative approaches involving community participation, traditional knowledge, and modern conservation practices are essential for maintaining the ecological integrity and socio-economic vitality of these forests.