Reviving faith leadership for high mountains rangeland conservation in Nepal

Alpine rangelands support rich biodiversity and serve as lifelines for people and economies. Traditionally managed through indigenous systems, including those led by Buddhist healers (Amchis), lacking clarity around governance has resulted in rangeland degradation. Traditional community healthcare provided by Amchis is also under threat due to unsustainable plant and animal ingredients. This project creates an innovative rangeland co- management model reviving Amchi and community stewardship in Dolpa, phasing out wildlife in Traditional Medicine and supporting income generation from sustainable medicinal plants.