Harmony With Nature: The Green Story Of Arunachal

Varun, a young man captivated by the allure of adventure and a deep love for books, had long dreamt of exploring the wonders of Arunachal Pradesh. Months were spent pouring over books, learning the local language and immersing himself in the culture, eagerly anticipating the day he would finally set foot in this breathtaking land.

As he arrived in Arunachal Pradesh, he was greeted by a scene straight out of a painting - majestic snow-capped peaks reaching towards the heavens, lush green valleys nestled between them, and the soothing sound of cascading waterfalls weaving through dense forests. The Indian State of Forest Report of 2021 had lauded Arunachal Pradesh for its remarkable forest cover, ranking it second highest in India, a testament to its natural splendor.

Stepping off the bus in Ziro Valley, a gentle tap on Varun's shoulder startled him. Turning, he found himself face-to-face with a vision – a girl with eyes the colour of the monsoon sky and a smile that could rival the Arunachal sun. "Konya," she said, extending a hand in welcome. "Welcome to our land." Varun, his heart skipping a beat, stammered a reply in his newly acquired language.

Relief washed over him as Konya, his guide for the next few weeks, burst into laughter, a sound as light and musical as wind chimes. Her sweet smile and genuine warmth made Varun feel at home. As they embarked on their adventures together, Konya shared stories of her people, the Apatani tribe, and their harmonious way of life with nature.

"Here in Ziro Valley, we live in harmony with the land," Konya explained, her voice soft but filled with pride. "Our ancestors taught us to respect the earth and all its creatures."

Varun listened intently, hanging on to her every word as they explored the rich culture of the Adi and Galo tribes. He watched in awe as they practiced the traditional art of Lipum fishing, marveling at their respect for nature. Large bamboo baskets lined with seaweed, placed strategically in the streams, attracted fish with the promise of a meal. But only mature fish were kept, the younger ones gently released back into the water. This practice, restricted to winter months coinciding with the off-season for breeding, ensured the fish population thrived.

Their journey took them deeper into the Mishmi Hills, where Varun encountered the Idu Mishmi tribe. Sitting around a crackling fire, the tribal elders shared tales of their deep connection with nature.

"Tigers are our elder brothers," one of the elders explained solemnly. "We protect them as we would our own kin." Varun was moved by their reverence for the natural world, and the profound impact it had on their way of life.

While listening to them, Varun's eye searched Konya. She was on the other side of the bonfire with a group of women. Her face, painted with the glow of fire, melted Varun's heart. The women laughed for some reason, and Konya joined in. Her laughter brought a smile on Varun's face unknowingly. A strange string as if had connected the two.

Together, they visited the "Community Conserved Area," a part of the forest sacred to the Idu Mishmi, where they worked tirelessly to preserve the delicate balance of the ecosystem.

On returning, Varun decided to spend a few more days with Konya in Ziro valley. Living amongst these tribes, Varun witnessed a profound understanding of the delicate balance between humans and nature. The Apatanis practiced a unique rice-fish cultivation system, where fish thrived alongside paddy, creating a self-sustaining ecosystem. Crop residues and village waste were used as organic fertilizers, ensuring the land remained fertile for generations to come.

As days turned into weeks, Varun found himself drawn to Konya in ways he couldn't explain. Their conversations flowed effortlessly, each one deepening their connection and understanding of one another. Amidst the beauty of Arunachal Pradesh, their love blossomed like the wildflowers that carpeted the valley.

But as the day of Varun's departure drew near, there was a pervasive feeling of despondency in the air. One starlit night, perched on a hill overlooking the valley, they watched the fireflies paint the night sky with their glow. A comfortable silence stretched between them, heavy with unspoken emotions. Varun longed to confess his feelings, but the fear of ruining their connection held him back. Konya, perhaps sensing his turmoil, smiled sadly. "We all have paths we must follow, Varun," she said softly. Her words hung heavy in the air, a bittersweet truth.

The next morning, as he boarded the bus, a knot of regret tightened in Varun's chest. He left a piece of himself in that emerald valley, with the girl who had shown him the true meaning of harmony with nature. Though their love remained unspoken, the memory of Konya, and the lessons learned from the tribes, would forever be a cherished part of his journey. He carried within him a newfound respect for nature, a deep affection etched in the Minyong fabric of Arunachal Pradesh, and a silent promise to return someday, perhaps to find the courage to speak the words left unsaid.