Forest and wildlife management lessons for citizens to shield wild

PUNE: Now, citizens can walk among protectors of wildlife and learn a thing or two about conservation.The forest department officials have launched a certificate course on wildlife protection for all. The short course in forest and wildlife management will help participants explore what goes into protection of wildlife.

Member of the eco-tourism board Anuj Khare said that most people don’t know about the work put in by the forest staff.

“There is hardly any interaction between the tourists and forest staff once they enter the gates of a sanctuary or reserve. The course will give an insight into duties and activities the staff carries out as part of the conservation. This will change people’s own perspective about their role in the effort,” he told TOI.
The first leg of the course was conducted at Melghat Tiger Reserve from June 5 to 10. The participants were introduced to conservation and the laws governing it, duties and posts of forest officials, techniques, as well as details of the wildlife species found in Melghat, Khare said.
“Most of the modules were led by forest officials. In addition, the participants were also taken on a joint patrol with the Special Tiger Protection Force (STPF) officers to show them their routine. The course ended with a traditional performance by members of the Korku tribe — locals of the region,” said Khare.
The course was designed by field director M Srinivas Reddy and Rajiv Pandit of city-based organisation Jividha. It was hosted by the Melghat Tiger Conservation Foundation, Nature Walk and Jividha.
Forest officials are planning the next batch for a three-day period in August.