Insights from my internship experience in ACAP, Bhujung

This Presentation shows a detailed information gained from work experience program participated in ACAP , Bhujung.

1. Insights from My
Internship
Experience
•Name: Srijeet Joshi
•Date: 2081/02/15
•Internship Position: Work Experience Program Participant
•Organization Name: Annapurna Conservation Project (ACAP)

2. Introduction
Background: This internship was part of the Conservation Area Management Committee's
(CAMC) initiative to promote ecological conservation and community development.
Objectives: To gain hands-on experience in biodiversity documentation, understand
traditional ecological knowledge, and contribute to sustainable management strategies.
And to add the different NTFPs species to harvest annually in Operational Plan of all
Conservation Area Management Committee's (CAMCs).
Scope of the Internship: The internship focused on field expeditions, biodiversity
assessments, and community engagement in the Bhujungandother CAMCsof Unit
Conservation Office (UCO), Bhujung.

3. Organization Profile
•History of the Organization: Established in 1986, ACAP is
the largest and most successful undertaking of the
National Trust for Nature Conservation (NTNC), aimed at
conserving biodiversity and promoting sustainable
development in the Annapurna region.
•Organizational Structure: ACAP operates through various
local units and field offices, with a central management
committee coordinating efforts across different regions.
•Services/Products Offered: ACAP focuses on wildlife
conservation, community development, eco-tourism, and
sustainable resource management.
•Market Position: ACAP is a leading conservation initiative
in Nepal, renowned for its integrated approach to
conservation and community participation.

4. Department
Overview

5. •My Role: Conservation Intern
•Key Responsibilities: Conducting
biodiversity surveys, engaging with
local communities, documenting
traditional ecological knowledge,
and assisting in conservation
planning.

6. Task/Project 1
Description:
•During my work experience in Bhujung, I reviewed the operational
plan of the Conservation Area Management Committee and
revisited key concepts related to NTNC and ACAP. I conducted a
detailed inspection of the local forest, dominated by Uttistrees,
and explored local hydropower and milling projects, and local
ways of harvesting wild honey.
Contribution:
•Inspected forest biodiversity, highlighting the dominance of Uttis,
Rhododendron, Juniperus, Conifers, bamboo etc.
•Documented the operations of the MidimKholaHydropower
project and a traditional water-powered mill.
•Engaged with the Dalit community, observing local industries and
educational facilities.
Outcomes:
•Gained insights into the ecological and cultural diversity of
Bhujung.
•Documented the multi-purpose use of Uttis, Bamboo and other
tree speciesby the local community.
•Highlighted the community's innovative use of natural resources
and commitment to education.

7. Description:
•I explored the traditional honey hunting practices in Bhujung,
focusing on the cultural significance and intricate methods
used by the community.
Contribution:
•Detailed the traditional tools and safety gear used in honey
hunting.
•Observed the rituals and preparation involved in selecting
and harvesting honey.
•Documented the process of honey extraction and the
community's respect for nature.
Outcomes:
•Comprehensive understanding of the cultural importance of
honey hunting in Bhujung.
•Highlighted the community's collaborative approach and
traditional ecological knowledge.
•Contributed to documenting an important cultural practice
for conservation purposes.

8. Task/Project 3
Description:
•I participated in a thirteen-day expedition
ineight CAMCsto explore and document
biodiversity, particularly focusing on Non-
Timber Forest Products (NTFPs) and orchids
such as [ Coelogynenitida, Goodyeravittata,
Pleione humilis].
Contribution:
•Collected samples and recorded data on
various NTFP species including [Gurjo, Satuwa,
Chiraito, Jhyau, Lokta] and orchids.
•Identified and documented animal footprints
and pellets, indicating the presence of diverse
wildlife in the area.
•Interacted with local herders and farmers to
understand the use and significance of different
species.
•Assisted in administrative tasks such as
checking permits for tourists and ensuring
compliance.

9. Outcomes:
•Provided valuable insights into the
biodiversity of the region, including
the presence ofvarious wildlife
species.
•Documented diverse NTFP
species and orchids in
thebhujungandKhudiregion.
•Gained insights into traditional
uses and cultivation practices.
•Enhanced understanding of local
biodiversity and contributed to
sustainablemanagement
strategies.

10. Learning Outcomes
•Skills Acquired: Field survey techniques, biodiversity
documentation, community engagement,and administrative
skills.
•Knowledge Gained: In-depth understanding of local flora and
fauna, traditional ecological practices, and sustainable
resource management.
•Professional Development: Improved project management
skills, enhanced ability to work in diverse environments, and
developed a holistic understanding of conservation strategies.

11. •Challenges Faced: Navigating
difficult terrains, language barriers,
and understanding complex
traditional practices.
•Problem-Solving Strategies:
Collaborated closely with local
guides and native tools
•Lessons Learned: The importance
of cultural sensitivity, adaptability in
fieldwork, and the value of
community knowledge in
conservation.

12. Conclusion
•Summary of Experience: The internship
provided a comprehensive
understanding of biodiversity and
conservation practices in Nepal,
emphasizing the integration of traditional
knowledge and modern techniques.
•Recommendations for Future Interns:
Engage actively with the community, be
prepared for challenging field
conditions, and maintain an open mind
to learn from diverse experiences and
respect other traditions and cultures.
•Personal Reflections: The experience
was enriching and transformative,
offering valuable insights into the
interconnectedness of ecological and
cultural conservation.