Palamu Tiger Reserve Launches ‘Vanjeevi Didi’ Initiative

The Palamu Tiger Reserve (PTR) in Jharkhand has launched the ‘Vanjeevi Didi’ initiative, a community-driven conservation programme aimed at empowering women to protect forests and wildlife. Rolled out by the south division of PTR, the project seeks to build grassroots awareness and strengthen local participation in safeguarding biodiversity.

Women as Forest Ambassadors

Under the initiative, 18 educated women from each of 17 identified villages have been selected as ‘Vanjeevi Didis’. Most of them are college graduates or pursuing higher education, while others are experienced in community-based environmental practices.

These women will act as ambassadors of the reserve, motivating families and neighbours to refrain from harming forests and wildlife. Officials believe that women, given their central role in households, can influence behavioural change and discourage illegal activities such as poaching and deforestation.

Targeting Hinterland Villages

The programme was launched on February 17 in the Garu range. Several selected villages, including Henar, Surkumi, Hasua, Armu, Kotam and Pandra, lie in the hinterland areas of PTR. Despite their remote location, many women from these villages have completed postgraduate and diploma courses.

Officials noted that forest offences often originate within local communities. By encouraging women to persuade family members against illegal hunting or habitat destruction, the initiative aims to create social deterrence from within.

Incentives and Expanded Responsibilities

Each Vanjeevi Didi will receive a monthly incentive of Rs 3,000. The project is initially planned for two months, after which its performance will be reviewed. A proposal has been submitted to the state forest department for formal approval and funding support.

Beyond conservation, the women will provide basic educational support in villages, promote school enrolment, and disseminate information about government employment schemes and development programmes. The initiative is modelled on Sakhi Mandals and para-legal volunteers, functioning as a bridge between communities and forest authorities.

Important Facts for Exams

• Palamu Tiger Reserve is located in Jharkhand and forms part of Project Tiger.
• Community participation is a key strategy in wildlife conservation.
• Project Tiger was launched in 1973 to protect Bengal tigers.
• Eco-development programmes aim to reduce dependency on forest resources.

Community-Centred Conservation Model

The ‘Vanjeevi Didi’ initiative reflects a shift towards inclusive and community-based conservation in India. By integrating women into wildlife protection efforts, PTR aims to foster sustainable coexistence between local communities and forest ecosystems while strengthening grassroots stewardship of natural resources.