'How Nabam Bapu and Likha Nana Preserve Wildlife with 3D Printing'

Local Couple Creates Eco-Friendly Replicas to Preserve Tribal Traditions and Protect Animals

Nabam Bapu and Likha Nana, a couple from Arunachal Pradesh, have taken a remarkable step to protect endangered wildlife in northeast India. Through their initiative, Arunachal Ivory and Ornaments, they use 3D printing technology to create realistic and eco-friendly replicas of traditional tribal attire accessories.

These replicas include tiger and leopard jaws, hornbill beaks, and eagle claws, which are typically made from animal parts. This innovation aims to preserve the rich cultural heritage of the Nyishi tribe and other tribes in the region without harming wildlife.

Nabam, a 29-year-old civil engineer, grew up proud of his cultural traditions, which included the elaborate attire of his Nyishi tribe. However, he was disturbed by the fact that many of these garments and accessories were made from endangered animal parts. His wife, Likha Nana, also 29 and a post-graduate in history, shared his concern. Together, they founded Arunachal Ivory and Ornaments in 2022 to provide a sustainable alternative.

The traditional attire of the Nyishi tribe is adorned with various animal parts, from eagle claws in hairstyles to Great Indian Hornbill beaks in headgear, and tiger and leopard jaws in jewelry. These parts not only hold cultural significance but also indicate social status and impart symbolic powers. However, the use of these animal parts has led to a significant decline in wildlife populations, with many species now endangered or vulnerable.

To address this issue, Nabam, Likha, and their friend Anang Tadar developed a process to 3D print these animal parts using plant-based, biodegradable materials. The replicas are meticulously crafted to ensure they closely resemble the original parts, allowing the tribe members to maintain their traditions without contributing to wildlife poaching.

Their innovative approach has received recognition and support from the Arunachal Pradesh Government, which awarded them a grant of Rs 5 lakh in 2023. The startup was also incubated at the Innovation Park in Itanagar, a joint project of the Indian Institute of Management, Calcutta, and the Arunachal Pradesh Government. This support has helped them refine their business model and reach a wider audience.

The eco-friendly replicas have been well-received within the community. Many tribe members, like Nido Karchuk, appreciate the high quality and realistic appearance of the 3D-printed items. While there is some resistance from traditionalists who prefer original animal parts, the majority of the community supports this sustainable alternative.

Nabam and Likha's efforts highlight a crucial balance between preserving cultural heritage and protecting wildlife. Their work ensures that future generations can celebrate their traditions without endangering the precious fauna of Arunachal Pradesh.

Reference:

thebetterindia.com