This study entails participatory action-research with Lepcha communities in Sikkim State and Kalimpong area of Darjeeling Gorkha Hill Council (DGHC), West Bengal - with a particular focus on farming systems and traditional rice varieties. Together with a local NGO (the Centre for Mountain Dynamics), village and Panchayat leaders, and women self-help groups, it aims to explore the potential of customary laws in the protection of community rights over traditional knowledge and genetic resources; and identify elements for developing a sui generis mechanism for their protection. It also aims to sensitize the local and indigenous communities on emerging trends in policies/ laws, and promote the recognition of customary laws at national and international levels.
