Solar-Powered mobile charging stations for six villages in the Dampa Landscape of Mizoram were also inaugurated during a stakeholder meeting conducted at Damparengpui on September 8, 2026 under the aegis of leading biodiversity conservation organisation Aaranyak, in collaboration with Conservation Mizoram, Department of Environment, Forests & Climate Change (DEF&CC), Village Councils of the six villages, Young Mizo Association (YMA), Young Chakma Association (YCA), Mizo Hmeichhe Insuihkhawm Pawl (MHIP), and Chakma Mahila Samity (CMS).
The meeting was attended by community leaders, village representatives, government officials, researchers, school staff and local communities totalling 100 participants with 70 male and 30 female participants.
Prof. Dr. H.T. Lalremsanga, Head of the Department of Zoology, Mizoram University, attended the programme as chief guest and inaugurated the mobile charging stations in the presence of Dr. Dipankar Lahkar, Assistant Director, Tiger Research and Conservation Division, Aaranyak ; V.L.K. Vaiphei, Second-in-Command, 191 Battalion BSF and representatives from the six project villages.
Prof. Dr. H.T. Lalremsanga highlighted the importance of adopting renewable energy solutions in rural landscapes. He noted that the abundance of sunlight in the landscape makes solar energy a practical and sustainable option for local communities.
He further emphasized that villages surrounding the Dampa Tiger Reserve possess significant potential for ecotourism development due to their rich natural heritage and proximity to Aizawl.
He encouraged communities to continue conserving biodiversity while exploring sustainable livelihood opportunities through responsible use and value addition of locally available resources.
The community leaders thanked Aaranyak for recognizing the proper needs of the community and supporting solutions that directly benefit local residents. Lalrinkimi Apeto, VCP of Damparengpui said, “Since Aaranyak began its activities in our village, we have witnessed its commitment to supporting local communities. The installation of these solar-powered charging stations addresses a real need of our people and will be greatly beneficial, especially during power outages and emergencies. We remain committed to supporting the project and its conservation efforts”.
She further highlighted the socio-economic challenges faced by communities living along the fringe of Dampa Tiger Reserve, where dependence on forest resources remains high. She noted that improving livelihood opportunities and access to essential services can help reduce pressure on natural resources and strengthen community participation in biodiversity conservation.
The programme was chaired by C. Vanlalrema, Liaison Officer, Aaranyak, while overall coordination and technical guidance were provided by Dr. Dipankar Lahkar and Joyason Chakma. Members of the Aaranyak Dampa Landscape team, including Jeetu Saikia, Lalhmunsiami Pachuau, Benjamin Lalnunkima, Linda Vanlalhmangaihi, Lalhmangaihkima Sailo, Susangka Chakma, and Doyamoy Chakma, actively participated in the event.
