About Us

Strengthening Communities, Conserving Biodiversity

Who we are

Resource Organization on Jhum and Biodiversity

We bring together research, indigenous knowledge, and innovation to address the challenges of Jhum cultivation, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable livelihoods in Nagaland, the Northeast, and the Eastern Himalayan region.

Our Identity

ROJB is an autonomous body designed to address challenges faced by jhum cultivators (jhumias) and forest-dependent communities. We act as a bridge between policy, practice, and people, ensuring knowledge flows seamlessly across all stakeholders.

Our Role

We generate and share research-driven and field-tested knowledge on jhum cultivation, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable resource management. Our work integrates traditional wisdom with modern innovations to empower communities and institutions.

Our Mandate

ROJB’s mandate is to create a centre of excellence that:

Supports policy and decision-making.
Builds capacity for sustainable practices.
Promotes innovation through partnerships.
Expands its impact from Nagaland to the wider Northeast and Eastern Himalayas.

Our Role in the Region

The Northeast and Eastern Himalayas are home to some of the world’s richest biodiversity and deeply rooted indigenous cultures. Yet, these landscapes face challenges—climate risks, fragile terrains, poverty, and pressures from unplanned development.

ROJB plays a critical role in this context by:

Supporting research and innovation for sustainable jhum practices.
Creating a central knowledge repository for communities and policymakers.
Designing capacity-building programs to strengthen local institutions.
Facilitating collaborative partnerships to scale positive impact.

Why It Matters

The future of the Northeast depends on balancing livelihood needs with ecological stewardship. ROJB brings together knowledge, people, and policy to ensure that communities thrive while biodiversity flourishes.