Livelihood

Livelihood development is a cornerstone of Arannayk Foundation’s conservation strategy. By linking economic opportunities with environmental stewardship, Arannayk Foundation helps communities secure sustainable incomes while reducing dependency on forest resources.

Through initiatives such as the Mutual Rotating Savings and Loan Fund (MRSLF), climate-smart agriculture, non-timber forest products, and environmentally friendly enterprises, Arannayk Foundation supports communities in building resilience. Technical and vocational education, alongside training in sustainable farming, equips women, youth, and persons with disabilities with the skills to thrive. Market linkages for high-value crops and small enterprises further strengthen local economies, while incentives encourage active participation in forest restoration and human-wildlife conflict mitigation. To date, more than 50,000 households have benefited, enhancing their capacity to become climate-resilient and self-reliant.

At the heart of these efforts lies the Revolving Loan Fund (RLF), managed by community-based organizations (CBOs). The fund enables members to access capital for alternative income-generating activities through a participatory savings scheme. Training in organizational management and financial literacy ensures that funds are managed transparently and sustainably. Loan approvals are guided by documented procedures, business plans, and guarantors, with repayment terms tailored to specific activities. Many loans remain interest-free, though some CBOs introduce modest interest or profit-sharing. As part of every loan, members commit to planting trees, reinforcing the bond between livelihoods and conservation.

CBOs maintain financial records and operate through bank accounts, reflecting their strengthened governance. This approach not only fosters a culture of savings and financial discipline but also reduces reliance on external loans. The revolving nature of the fund ensures that resources remain available for future members, while the tree-planting condition contributes directly to environmental restoration.

By integrating livelihoods with conservation, Arannayk Foundation builds pathways for communities to achieve economic stability, ecological balance, and long-term resilience