Guardians of the Green: Reviving Village Common Forests (VCF)

The Chittagong Hill Tracts have historically been a region of rich biodiversity, protected by the indigenous practice of maintaining ‘Village Common Forests’ (VCF) or Mouza Bons. These community-managed forests are strictly preserved for sustainable use—protecting water sources (jhiri), rare medicinal plants, and wildlife.

In the face of modern deforestation and climate change, the Chakma Circle is renewing its focus on these traditional conservation methods. By empowering local Headmen and communities to formally register and protect their VCFs, we are fighting water scarcity and soil erosion. These forests are not just natural resources; they are the lifelines of our hill communities, proving that indigenous knowledge is key to a sustainable future.