About this document: The strategy for sustainable development proposed here for the Tinjure-Milke-Jaljale
area consists of seven parts. Begun with basic introduction of the strategy, the strategy provides its conceptual
framework, a short description of the setting and major obstacle along with the outline of priority actions and
the proposed implementation plan. Desk-top analysis, consultation, interaction and PRA were used to collect
basic information for the preparation of the strategy.
Overall goal: The Tinjure-Milke-Jaljale area (referred as TMJ hereafter) of Sankhuwasabha, Taplejung,
and Tehrathum districts is selected for the conservation as it is considered the capital of Rhododendron with
more than 25 species. It falls in Eastern part of Nepal. The overall goal of the plan is to develop the TMJ area
as the hub of the Rhododendron studies, conservation and sustainable uses in Nepal. It has set up four
objectives. The conceptual framework of the strategy is intended to maximize community’s role in the overall
management of the area. On the basis of impact areas, the strategy has identified four major areas for
intervention; (a) biodiversity conservation, (b) preservation of cultural heritage, (c) development of livelihood
alternatives and (d) eco-tourism development.
Major obstacles: Several obstacles have been identified to achieve the conservation goal of the area. These
obstacles include legal ambiguity in terms of boundary and institution, loss of habitats, poor infrastructures,
inadequate basic services, lack of livelihood opportunities, etc.
Implementation outline: The Strategy lists 28 priority actions for four objectives with the total of 12
outputs. The implementation outline suggests the immediate endorsement of the strategy by the
government, engaging local communities, designating an implementing agency, building capacity and raising
awareness. The strategy also highlights the role and responsibilities of the stakeholders.
Conclusion: It is suggested that the management policy of the TMJ area should come under national
protection act and should be guided by Nepal’s development policies, biodiversity strategy and related
regulations. Suggestions are made that various acts including Conservation Area Management Regulation
1996, Soil and Watershed Conservation Act 1982, Forest Act 1993 and Local Self-Governance Act 1999
may be employed for its management with the intention that the area be declared as a community-conserved
conservation area and that should be guided by the principles such as the recognition of private and
community forests, recognition of traditional rights and empowerment of local people.