EarthKeepers

The Earthkeepers project, funded by the International Development Research Centre (IDRC), Canada, explored traditional ecological knowledge, weather observations, and local perceptions of climate change among rural farming communities in Nagaland. The project sought to strengthen local understandings of environmental change, facilitate dialogue on climate adaptation, and document community-based knowledge systems related to climate, agriculture, and biodiversity.

Objectives

• Document traditional ecological knowledge related to weather, climate, and farming practices.
• Assess local awareness and perceptions of climate change.
• Facilitate community dialogue on environmental change and adaptation.
• Support knowledge exchange on biodiversity conservation and sustainable livelihoods.

Activities

• Conducted ethnographic fieldwork in Khiamniungan communities of Noklak district and among the Pochury communities of Meluri.
• Organised community seminars on wildlife conservation and environmental stewardship.
• Conducted climate change and biodiversity workshops with school students.
• Facilitated research training, conference participation, and knowledge-sharing activities for project researchers.

Outcomes

The project generated a range of research outputs, including blogs, articles, and public engagement materials addressing climate change, borderland livelihoods, fieldwork experiences, and research methodologies. A major outcome was the publication of a comprehensive research report compiling findings on traditional ecological knowledge, agricultural practices, seasonal cycles, belief systems, conservation practices, and community perceptions of changing weather and climate. The report also examined local adaptation strategies, ritual and cosmological understandings of the environment, and policy recommendations for climate resilience. Project findings were disseminated through a concluding workshop in Kohima that brought together researchers, community leaders, activists, and policymakers.

Research Team

• Catriona Child — Principal Investigator
• Kevide Lcho — Research Fellow
• Tumüzo Katiry — Research Fellow
• Saktum Wonti — Research Fellow

Duration

March 2023 – December 2025

Funder

International Development Research Centre (IDRC), Canada