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Kerala’s Vidiyal Initiative
Context:
India’s first participatory forest management project began in Kerala’s Periyar Tiger Reserve (PTR) nearly 30 years ago called Vidiyal Vanapathukappu Sangam focusing on former poachers and sandalwood smugglers.
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- The project faced scepticism from conservationists and law enforcement due to the unprecedented nature of transforming poachers into forest protectors.
- Sabu Varghese, also known as Kunjumon, received the Cricketers for Wildlife Conservation Service Award for his role in the project.
- The award includes a cash prize of Rs 1 lakh and a citation, recognising the tireless efforts of individuals like Kunjumon in protecting India’s wildlife.
Origins of the Initiative:
- The Vidiyal project emerged from the realities of forest management challenges.
- Due to the presence of gangs like that of the notorious poacher Aruvi, who emphasised the need for stable income-generating jobs to deter illegal activities.
- This groundbreaking initiative aimed to rehabilitate former poachers and sandalwood smugglers by integrating them into conservation efforts.
- Initially met with scepticism, the project has since proven to be a resounding success, transforming PTR into one of India’s best-conserved forest regions.
From Poacher to Protector:
- Kunjumon was once part of a gang that illegally harvested and smuggled wild cinnamon and sandalwood bark.
- In 1996, he and his group renounced their illegal activities and began contributing to forest conservation. He now serves as a guide for visitors, leading elephant safaris and offering bullock cart rides to local markets.
- They now offer eco-friendly tourism services, such as bamboo rafting on Thekkady Lake, where tourists can enjoy sightings of elephants and other wildlife.
- As Kunjumon reflects, the project has brought a “new dawn” to their lives, allowing them to move from a life of crime to one of dignity and respect.
Achievements: Over 30 years, the 17-member group has:
- They have effectively prevented poaching and assisted the forest department in apprehending over 230 gangs involved in illegal activities.
- Their collective efforts have transformed Periyar into one of India’s best-conserved forest regions.
- The project’s success has led to its replication in other tiger reserves and sanctuaries, further reinforcing the idea that involving local communities in conservation can lead to sustainable outcomes.
Sustainable Livelihoods and Community Involvement:
- The initiative has not only provided stable incomes for its members but also fostered a deep commitment to conservation.
- The team now earns a monthly gross salary of Rs 22,000, working on eco-tourism projects facilitated by the Periyar Tiger Foundation.
- Their intelligence network spans across Idukki and Theni districts, enabling them to gather critical information on poachers and smugglers.
Way Forward:
- While the Vidiyal project continues to thrive, it has strict policies in place to prevent the re-admittance of individuals who engage in criminal activities after joining.
- This ensures that the integrity and commitment of the team remain intact.
- The story of Vidiyal serves as a powerful example of how innovative approaches to conservation can yield transformative results, providing a sustainable model for forest management and community empowerment.
- In celebrating its 25th anniversary, the Kerala Forest Department even produced a short film titled “Vidiyal,” showcasing the journey of this unique initiative, further solidifying its impact on conservation efforts in India.