Our Achievements

Wildlife and We Protection Foundation was registered under The Companies Act 1956, section 25 as NGO on Date 27th May 2008. Its team, headed by Dr.Shivaji Chavan, is qualified and efficient to undertake various types of projects The Team has an experience of 7.5 years and the Team Leader has experience of 30 years.

2008 - 09

2009-10

2009-11

2011-12

2012-13

2013-14

2014-15

2021-22

2015-16

2022-23

2016-17

2017-18

2019-20

2020-21

2008-09

This was our year of inception hence all the projects were in initiation stage. The following projects were initiated on a ‘No Profit No Loss’ Basis in the interest of wildlife Conservation in Central India. These projects involved generation of spatial database for the Forest Departments of Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra and Chhattisgarh and further consisted of ‘Development of Digital Planning and Management Systems’ for the Protected Areas in Central India. For the Reporting Period May, 2008-March, 2009 these projects are in various stages of initiation and the initial dialogue and negotiations are on with the concerned agencies. The Protected areas under initiative were:

  1. Pench Tiger Reserve, Maharashtra
  2. Tadoba Tiger Reserve, Maharashtra
  3. Kanha Tiger Reserve, Madhya Pradesh
  4. Melghat Tiger Reserve, Maharashtra
  5. Ranthambhor Tiger Reserve, Rajashthan
  6. Sahaydri Tiger Reserve, Maharashtra
  7. Udanti-Sitanadi Tiger Reserve, Chhattisgarh
  8. Kuno Wildlife Sanctuary, Madhya Pradesh
  9. Barnavapara Wildlife Sanctuary, Chhattisgarh.
  10. Bhoramdeo Wildlife Sanctuary, Chhattisgarh
  11. Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary, Chhattisgarh
  12. Nawegaon Wildlife Sanctuary, Maharashtra
  13. Nagzira Wildlife Sanctuary, Maharashtra
  14. Mayureshwar Wildlife Sanctuary, Maharashtra

2009-10

  1. Development of Digital Planning and Management Systems
    A number of projects were launched in 2008-2009. Most of them continued in this year. All the projects were pertaining ‘Development of Digital Planning and Management Systems’ for the Protected Areas in Central India. All the projects that had been initiated in the past year were completed. Out of those whose proposal were submitted in this year, some were initiated and were later completed while some proposals were formalised later

    a) Completed projects

    Ranthambore Tiger Reserve, Rajasthan

    b) Partially completed projects
    1. Kuno Wildlife Sanctuary, Madhya Pradesh
    2. Kanha Tiger Reserve, Madhya Pradesh

    c) Initiation and Formalisation

      1. Sahaydri Tiger Reserve, Maharashtra

    Though the proposal were submitted for all the Protected areas listed under 2008-2009, only the few listed above in this year got initiated, proposals for rest were not accepted by the respective Field Directors/Directors.

  2. Projects with Eco-Tourism Board of Chhattisgarh
    We have submitted projects proposal on various aspects of Eco-Tourism to the Chhattisgarh
    Tourism Board. The proposals are under discussion.
  3. Village Adoption Project
    Village Adoption Project completed in Silvassa in collaboration with District Administration, Silvassa and Balmer and Laurie. The proposal was submitted but the project did not materialise due to reasons beyond our control.
  4. Technical support to the ‘Central Indian Satpuda Maikal Landscape Tiger Conservation Project of WWF-India
    • Provided technical support to the ‘Central Indian Satpuda Maikal Landscape Tiger Conservation Project of WWF-India’ in spatial database related issues as gratis.
    • Technical support to the Central Indian ‘Satpuda Maikal Landscape Tiger Conservation Project’ of WWF-India for generation of ‘Report on Public Private Community Partnership with emphasis on the Panchayat Raj Institutions’, for the District Administration.( On actual services payments)
  5. ‘Monitoring of Elusive Carnivors’ in Pench and Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve
    Provided technical support to the Forest Department of Maharashtra for ‘Monitoring of Elusive Carnivors’ in Pench and Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve. The data was shared with the Forest Department of Maharashtra and the ‘Central Indian Satpuda Maikal Landscape Tiger Conservation Project of WWF-India to support their conservation efforts (as gratis)
  6. Workshop on Water Quality Assessments and Bio- Remediation for Polluting Industries in Vapi
    Support and Coordination provided for organization of a ‘Workshop on Water Quality Assessments and Bio- Remediation for Polluting Industries in Vapi, organized by the Toxics Division of the WWF-India, New Delhi.

2010-11

  1. Spatial Digital Planning and Management Support
    Spatial Digital Planning and Management Support was developed for – Palpur- Kuno Lion Sanctuary, Pench Tiger Reserve and Tadoba Tiger Reserve (Maharashtra), Kanha Tiger Reserve (M.P.), Ranthambore Tiger Reserve- (Rajasthan), Bhoramdeo Wildlife Sanctuary (Chhattisgarh), Bor and Tipeshwar WLS and Nagzira WLS (Maharashtra).
  2. Vision Development for Chhattisgarh
    Development of Vision for Conservation Oriented Development of Chhattisgarh. The vision was developed and was presented to the relevant authorities.
  3. Guidance and Supervision of Research Projects of foreign students
    Guidance and Supervision of Research Projects of students from The Netherlands for Ecotourism Project and Water Sustainability Project in and around Tadoba Tiger Reserve (Maharashtra).
  4. Spatial Mapping
    Spatial Mapping of Government Rural Development Interventions in Dindori District in Madhya Pradesh. The proposal was submitted to the Collector, Dindori however there was no communication from them that could initiate the project
  5. Spatial Digital Planning and Management Support
    • Spatial Digital Planning and Management Support- Sahyadri Tiger Reserve (Maharashtra)
    • Spatial Digital Planning and Management Support-Bhoramdeo Wildlife Sanctuary (Chhattisgarh)
  6. Technical Support
    • Technical Support in Development of Nature Interpretation Center- Silvassa
    • Detailed Project Report (DPR) for Development of Nature Interpretation Center and Nature Trail at Chitrakut and Kanger Valley National Park in Chhattisgarh.
    • Technical Inputs into Chilpi Hardware and Software Ecotourism and Rural Tourism Project.
    • Technical support to the Forest Department of Maharashtra for ‘Monitoring of Elusive Carnivors’ in Pench and Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve. The data was shared with the Forest Department of Maharashtra and the ‘Central Indian Satpuda Maikal Landscape Tiger Conservation Project of WWF-India to support their conservation efforts (as gratis).

2011-12

  1. Development of Conceptual Design
    • Development of Conceptual Design for Interpretation and Conservation Support to Forest Department of Maharashtra at Sativali, Dahanu
    • Development of Conceptual Design at Lonipada for Disaster Management. On the request from the Department of Social Forestry for the first time in this regional ‘Design for Interpretation Center for Disaster Management’ was conceptualized.
    • Development of Conceptual Design of Interpretation Centre at Nahur Interpretation. This particular site was under the jurisdiction of the Forest Department (Social Forestry Division, Thane) It was in the middle of the city and was adjacent to the highway. It was conceptualized in order to target the city audience and the children who do have to travel long distance to see the ‘Interpretation Centre’
    • Conceptual Design- Information and Nature Interpretation Centre, Collectorate, Thane the concept was developed for the Social Forestry Department of Maharashtra on the request of the District Collector, Thane
      The proposals and designs were submitted to the respective officers of the Forest Department.
  2. Spatial Database Generation
    • The other major focus area of activity was generation of Spatial Database whereby for the first time the entire Thane Forest Circle was mapped in the GIS Domain.
    • Spatial Database Generation for Thane Circle – This was one of the commendable achievements of the W&WPF (Wildlife & We Protection Foundation). In all spatial mapping was planned for Five Forest Divisions namely Thane, Alibaug, Roha, Dahanu, Jawahar and Shahpur Division. The W&WPF competed for the tender, procured this contract and the task was initiated.
  3. Environment Impact Assessment for Anik-Panjarpole Link Road, Eastern Freeway
    The proposed Anik – Panjarpole Link Road (APLR) commenced at Truck Terminus Road to the south of Anik Bus Depot and terminated at the Sion–Panvel Road (V N Purav Marg) at Panjarpole. The 5.4 km long APLR section was a part of the Eastern Freeway, providing access from the port of Mumbai in the south to Navi Mumbai in the east and Eastern Express highway to the North-west. Since the APLR project was a new and major road construction project and it passed across mangroves patches (notified as “Reserve Forests‟ by the Govt. of Maharashtra) near Mahul creek, it came under the purview of the Environmental Impact Assessment Notification (2004) of the Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF) and so an Environmental Impact Assessment was needed to be conducted for the same. Executive Summary
  4. Empanelment as a Consultant for development of Ecotourism Facilities in Chhattisgarh for 2 years
    The Wildlife and We Protection Foundation was appointed as a consultant for development of Ecotourism Facilities in Chhattisgarh for 2 years. During its previous tenure as a consultant the Wildlife and We Protection Foundation developed a Detailed Project Report (DPR) for development of an Interpretation Centre at Chitrakoot Waterfall Site. The second major task which was undertaken for development of a Detailed Project Report (DPR) was ‘Upstream Development of Chitrakoot and the Tirathgarh Waterfalls to promote tourism and ensure proper ecological maintenance of the two rivers. The DPRs were completed and submitted to the Chhattisgarh Tourism Board.
  5. Fire Prevention and Protection Database
    A new innovative task was taken up in the Tungareshwar Wildlife Sanctuary and the Sanjay Gandhi National Park for development of Fire Prevention and Protection Database which would help in easy detection of fire and its timely control thereby preventing loss of forest cover due to fire. The project was completed, the report was submitted and the recommendations of the report were brought into practice and implemented by the Forest Department.
  6. The Transfer of Technologies (TOT) Project
    The Transfer of Technologies Project was initiated in the villages located in and around Kanha Tiger Reserve, Madhya Pradesh, from September 13th to September 18th, 2011, in collaboration and the guidance of National Institute of Rural Development, (NIRD), Hyderabad, who owned this project. The project was supported and coordinated by Wildlife and We Protection Foundation and the Management of Kanha Tiger Reserve, State Forest Department of Madhya Pradesh. 34 Villages were selected for the project as a result of discussion with both Deputy Directors. All the selected villages were divided in 9 clusters for convenience of logistics and with the aim of implementing the program in all crucial villages located in and around Kanha Tiger Reserve and having biotic influence on the later. The programs were appreciated by all villagers and their representatives. Some Resort Owner around Khatia and Mocha were also attending the program and they were very happy to know about the low cost technologies of Rat Trap Bond Bricks and Conical arch Tile Roofing Technologies. One additional program was organized for the Teachers and High School Students of Govt. High School, Mocha, by doing this, the message of TOT got transmitted to more villages because the teachers and the students were from all nearby villages of which some were not dealt with during orientation program. In all 1594 rural individuals in 10 clusters of villages were addressed during the TOT Programme.

2012-13

  1. Regional Ecosystem Assessment for Maharashtra State
    The idea of carrying out a ‘Regional Ecosystem Assessment for Maharashtra State was conceptualised by us. A preliminary discussion with the architects of UK National Ecosystem Assessment led to a visit of the Mission Team consisting of 4 members to Maharashtra. A Stakeholders workshop for the Senior Colleagues of the Maharashtra Forest Department and Non-Government Organisations was organised by the Secretary Forest, Government of Maharashtra at Bharthi Vidhyapeth. On 30th March, 2012 a meeting was conducted with Mr. Prithviraj Chavan, the then Hon. Chief Minister, Government of Maharashtra. As a follow-up to this visit the Forest Secretary and the Environment Secretary organised a meeting (31st March, 2012) consisting of their team members in the ministry with the visiting delegates where it was decided that the Wildlife and We Protection Foundation, Mumbai with support from Mr. Suresh Thorat, Addl. Director General, Social Forestry, Maharashtra, Mr. Jarnail Singh, Chief Conservator of Forests, and Dr. Patil, Environment Director, will develop a plan for ‘ Regional Ecosystem of Maharashtra’. Hence a ‘Strategic Plan for Regional Ecosystem Assessment for State of Maharashtra was developed. The proposal was submitted to the Hon. Chief Minister, Government of Maharashtra.
  2. The Transfer of Technologies (TOT) Project
    TOT Programme was conducted in Gujarat. Eleven villages were selected for the project after a series of discussions with respective Range Forest Officers of the Dedhiya pada, Sagai and Sagbara ranges of the Rajpipla (east) division. The same programme was carried out in Sariska Tiger Reserve, Rajasthan. 1360 from rural individuals from 20 villages belonging to various communities in the Core and Buffer Zone of Sariska, were addressed in the TOT Program. In Chhattisgarh the ToT was conducted in a ‘Mela’ in Amarkantak and it turned out to be a great success as far as addressing maximum number of community members is concerned. Almost around 10,000 individuals from various villages in the vicinity took benefit of the ToT. Here the ToT mostly consisted of ‘On the Spot Demonstrations’
  3. Spatial Database Generation
    Spatial Database Generation for Thane Circle was completed by us for all the divisions and was submitted to the respective divisions. After the submission our team went to each Divisional Headquarter and made demonstrations, trained the relevant staff, uploaded the data onto their systems and also provided them with the storage device containing the relevant data.
  4. Wildlife Mitigation Plan for Jayaswal Neco Mines Pvt Ltd
    Jayaswal NECO Industries Limited (JNIL) is a well-known industrial group of Central India viz. NECO GROUP. NECO’s Steel Plant at Siltara, Raipur, Chhattisgarh has an annual consumption of various grades of Manganese ore & Ferro alloys of 10,000 tonnes & 4,000 tonnes. The proposed mine was an open cast mine. The intended lease area was located in the vicinity of village-Ramdongri, Tehsil- Saoner, Forest Division- Nagpur, Forest Range – Khapa (Khubla Round, Randongri Beat, Compartment No. 213) at the southern end of Khapa forest between the river (Southern side) and the State Highway (Northern Side) and was adjoining to Shri Ravindranath, SM Sancheti, Shubham Mineral and Nagpure Mines. The proposed site and the surrounding area falling within the radius of 6 kms was studied between September and October 2012. During this period floral and faunal surveys were carried out using direct and indirect methods. Data of presence of wild animals was also collected by interviewing people of surrounding villages. Executive Summary.
  5. Capacity Building of the Forest Department.
    This has been a regular feature of the organisation to conduct capacity building programmes on various themes for the forest department officials.
  6. Opening and Dedication of Nature Interpretation Centre, Khanvel
    This Nature Interpretation Centre was developed in collaboration with Forest Department of DNH, Balmer and Lawrie Pvt. Ltd and the Wildlife and We Protection Foundation. The space was provided by the Forest Department, funds to the tune of Rs. 30 lacs was provided by Balmer and Lawrie and the Wildlife and We Protection Foundation developed the concept and executed it through its consultants. The Nature Interpretation Centre was inaugurated by the Hon. Home Minister of State, Government of India in April, 2013. The Centre is now operational and is being managed by the Forest Department.
  7. The Project titled ‘Urban National Parks in Emerging Countries’ (UNPEC)
    The Project titled ‘Urban National Parks in Emerging Countries (UNPEC) was conceptualised in collaboration with the University of Paris. The Urban National Parks chosen for the purpose of the project were: Tijuca National Park, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Sanjay Gandhi National Park, Mumbai, India, and Table Top Mountain National Park, Cape Town, South Africa. The Wildlife and We Protection was the Indian Counterpart of the Project for the purpose of providing technical support to this project.
  8. Guidance and Supervision of Research Projects of foreign students
    Under the Fellowship and Student Exchange Program with Bangor University 4 students were encouraged and mobilised to take up research projects in India.
  9. Green Book House’ at the SGNP
    We, in collaboration with the ‘Green Book House’ Natraj Publishers, Dehradun, opened a ‘Green Book Shop’ at the reception of the Sanjay Gandhi National Park. The Book Shop is operational and is being managed by the staff of Sanjay Gandhi National Park.

2013-14

  1. The Project Urban National Parks Urban National Parks in Emerging Countries (UNPEC)
    Dr. Frederic Lendi, Principal Investigator of the UNPEC Project paid a short visit to India to initiate the process of procuring various permissions that would be required for the project. During his visit, one day Seminar titled ‘Comparison of Conservation Scenarios in Nairobi National Park and SGNP National Park’ was organised at the Nature Interpretation Centre, Sanjay Gandhi National Park by the organisation for exchange of ideas on both the scenarios. Dr Lendi was the chief speaker in the seminar. The project involving comparison of the four Urban National Parks of the world was completed and the final report was release by University of Paris.
  2. Guidance and Supervision of Research Projects of foreign students
    • Under the Associate of FONASO Fellowships, Copenhagen, Department of Land, Environment, Agriculture and Forestry University of Padova, Italy and Centre for Evidence‐based Conservation School of Environment, Natural Resources and Geography. Bangor University, United Kingdom, took up a research project in India in technical partnership with Wildlife and We. The title of the research was ‘Testing the effectiveness of forest governance mechanisms in conservation policy and practices within protected areas’. The case of Central Indian Tiger Reserves’. The WII was also one of the associated partners. The Research Affiliate and FONASO Doctoral Student Ms. Biljana Macura with Supervisor: Laura Secco, LEAF, University of Padua Co-supervisor: Andrew Pullin, Bangor, were involved with the research.
    • Three Research Overseas Scholars were provided support to carry out research. The topics were:
      • Thesis Proposal-‘Study on Optimality of harvesting strategies in uneven aged Tropical Forests in Central India Forests’ Research Scholar- Mr. Bharat Gotame, MSc. SUTROFOR, from Technical University of Dresden, Germany, Department of Environmental Sciences.
      • MSc. Thesis title: ‘Agroforestry Models for Social Forestry in Maharashtra’ Ms. Neha Bansod, Research Scholar, Bangor University.
      • Project Title ‘Remote Sensing of Sanjay Gandhi National Park and Tungareshwar WLS in the Metropolitan Region, Mumbai’ Research Scholar, Ms. Emilie Edelblutte, University of Paris, UNPEC Project.
  3. Tribal Art and Craft at Kalaghoda Fair/Festival
    In February, 2014 we adopted an innovative approach to support the tribals in the remote areas of Gadchiroli District in Maharashtra through outreach to the population in Mumbai Metropolis. On the occasion of the ‘Kalghoda Festival’ which is a regular feature in Mumbai, every February of the year, we entered into collaboration with the Maharashtra Forest Department and helped the tribals to display and sell artifacts and products made by them.
  4. Spatial Digital Database for Sahyadhri Tiger Reserve
    We had been allocated the task of developing a Spatial Digital Database for the Sahyadri Tiger Reserve in the year 2011. It was completed and the database was submitted to the Field Director.

2014-15

  1. Tiger Conservation Plan of Namdapha Tiger Reserve, Arunachal Pradesh
    The organisation was invited by the Hon. PCCF, Arunachal Pradesh to provide complete technical assistance to Field Director, Namdapha Tiger Reserve to complete the Tiger Conservation Plan. The draft made earlier by various officers over the period of twelve years was completely refurbished and all the lacunae in the plan were addressed and a completely modified Tiger Conservation Plan was submitted to the Field Director within 45 days. The plan was approved by the National Tiger Conservation Authority within 2 months of its submission.
    The Namdapha Tiger Reserve is blessed with many attributes namely Biological, Ecological, Hydrological, Cultural, Research and Educational. The area has a rich biodiversity element. Some of the unique features are that, it is probably the only Protected Area in the world that harbours four big cats i.e. Tiger, Leopard, Clouded leopard and Snow leopard. The Park also assumes significance because of its location being at the tri-junction point of India, Myanmar and China. Bio-geographically, it falls within the Eastern Himalayas (2D) Bio-geographic province of the Himalayan Bio-geographic Zone in Indian Bio-geographic region, which covers the Palaeoarctic Realm, Indo-Malayan Realm (Oriental) and Indo-Chinese Realm (Rodgers & Panwar, 1988). As per Dinerstein et al. (1997) it is located at the junction of the Indian sub-continental Bio-geographic Region and Indo-China Bio-geographic Region. Executive Summary
  2. Evaluation of a livelihood project in Periphery of Kanha National Park
    The organisation was commissioned by the Royal Bank of Scotland Foundation (RBSF) to evaluate a project that was being implemented by Foundation for Ecological Security (FES). FES initiated the project titled ‘Reconciling Biodiversity Conservation and Livelihoods in Periphery of Kanha National Park’ in Bichhiya block of Mandla district. The objective was conserving and improving the biodiversity and faunal habitats of the Kanha National Park (KNP) and its adjoining buffer and peripheral regions in the Khatiya and Sijhora ranges of the Kanha Wildlife division through provision of support for livelihoods of the forest-resource dependent rural population, revival of the local conservation ethics and village-level institutions. The focus has been towards improving/strengthening institutional processes for promoting collective conservation efforts on the ground and building a Community Government Partnership towards conservation efforts based on mutual trust. Executive Summary
  3. Inventorisation of Flora and Fauna of Tansa WLS
    The project for developing an inventory of floral and faunal elements at Tansa Wildlife Sanctuary was allotted to us in August by Conservator of Forest (Wildlife), Thane.
  4. Scoping study on Snow Leopards in Jammu and Kashmir
    The organisation undertook a scoping study in Jammu and Kashmir to study the effect of militancy on Snow Leopard. The snow leopard faces multiple threats in the Himalayan region, from habitat degradation, loss of prey, the trade in pelts, parts and live animals, and conflict with humans, primarily pastoralists. Consequently, the populations are considered to be on a decline and the species is listed as Endangered in the IUCN’s Red List and is listed in Appendix I of the CITES. Because of this precarious status, the snow leopard is included in the Schedule I of the Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act 1972. Due to the Snow Leopard’s shy, solitary nature, and the inaccessibility to its habitat, population sizes are quite difficult to estimate. It is thought that 4,500 – 7,500 remain in the wild with an additional 600 – 700 in zoos worldwide. Snow leopards are one of the world’s most endangered big cats with only a small population of a few hundred individuals found in Ladakh, India. Executive Summary

2015-16

  1. Tiger Conservation Plan for Sanjay-Dubri Tiger Reserve, Madhya Pradesh
    The organisation undertook the task of developing the Tiger Conservation Plan for Sanjay Dubri Tiger Reserve – Madhya Pradesh. The plan was completed and submitted to the Field Director. It was submitted to the PCCF, for his comments before its onward submission to the NTCA for approval. Sanjay-Dubri Tiger Reserve spreading over an area 1674.511 sq. km. lies between 23°48’ 57”to 23°49’ 06” N latitudes and 82°10’ 48” to 82°14’ 06” E longitudes. It is situated in the north-eastern part of Madhya Pradesh and is bordered by Guru Ghasidas National Park in the south. It is a part of Bandhavgarh-Sanjay-Guru Ghasidas – Palamau landscape and has been identified as one of the potential tiger meta-population landscapes which are currently in need of conservation inputs. The terrain of Dubri sanctuary is almost plain while that of Sanjay National Park is hilly. Various perennial rivers flow through the reserve viz. Gopad, Banas, Mawai, Mohan, Kodmar, Umrari etc. Sanjay Tiger Reserve is the birth place of ‘Mohan’, the first white tiger of Rewa state. The tribal groups found here include Kols, Bhilalas, Barelas, Tadvis, Banjaras, Gonds and Mankars. These different ethnic groups have their own unique historical, cultural and religious identities. The fossil sites in Sanjay TR seem to be contiguous with the ‘fossil park’ in the state of Chhattisgarh. This area is being conserved as a fossil park. Executive Summary
  2. Inventory of floral and faunal elements at Tansa Wildlife Sanctuary
    We initiated the project in September 2014 and concluded it in April 2015. The inventory was carried out to ascertain the plant species present in the given area and to locate the RET species present in the Sanctuary. This was supposed to enable the management to take effective steps to provide protection to species of conservational concern. 335 species of plants were recorded in the study area and its surrounds. Of all the species recorded in the study area, two species viz Tectona grandis and Terminalia crenulata were dominant throughout the study area. 44 species were common, 37 species were infrequent, and 55 species were occasional in the area. 3 species were common as well as infrequent, 34 species were common as well as occasional, 30 species were infrequent as well as occasional, whereas 18 species were common, infrequent as well as occasional in different quadrats in the study areas. Executive Summary
  3. Development of Medicinal Plant Conservation Areas (MPCA) at Shirsad and Mandavi
    The Forest Development Corporation of Maharashtra Ltd. floated a tender for development of Medicinal Plant Conservation Areas at Shirsad and Mandavi. The organisation competed and was commissioned for the conduct project. Work was initiated in April 2015.

2016-17

  1. Development of Medicinal Plant Conservation Areas (MPCA) at Shirsad and Mandavi
    The main aim of the project entailed establishment of two MPCA of 200 ha. each at Bharoal – Sakwar comptt. No. 136 and Kuha comptt No. 1107 falling under the jurisdiction of Forest Project Division, Thane F. D. C. M. Limited and to develop strategic long term conservation plan. The project was initiated in April 2015 and the final report was submitted in July 2016.
    The site at Bharoal – Sakwar comptt no. 136 was surveyed for 11 months between April 2015 to February 2016 for 57 days. A total of 228 species have been recorded. The vegetational diversity is represented by 67 families. The site at Kuha comptt No. 1107 was surveyed for 11 months between April 2015 to February 2016 for 58 days. A total of 233 species were recorded. The vegetational diversity is represented by 71 families. Abundance, frequency and density were worked out for all the recorded species. Executive Summary
    Not only were two MPCAs admeasuring 200 Ha. were established at Mandavi and Shirsad, but a field guide was prepared to help the field staff identify the plants and an interactive website was prepared to locate the quadrats that were laid while studying the area. The website also provided the list of plants in each quadrat. This was done to enable the staff to better manage the MPCA.
  2. Inventory of Floral elements
    • Floristic Inventory of Karnala Bird Sanctuary
      The project to conduct a floral inventory of Karnala Wildlife Sanctuary was allotted to the organization by Conservator of Forest (Wildlife), Thane. The scope of the project was to prepare/develop an inventory of floral and faunal elements and to record the RET species in the sanctuary. During the study period, 232 plant species belonging to 85 plant families were recorded. 26 families were recorded with highest number of members. Habit of species spanned across trees, herbs and shrubs including epiphytes, parasites, ferns and climbers. 101 species of birds belonging to 48 classes were observed throughout the study period in the project area. 49 species of Butterflies were observed throughout the study period in the project area. Executive Summary
    • Inventory of Floral elements of Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary
      The project to prepare/develop a floral inventory was allotted to the organization by Conservator of Forest (Wildlife), Thane. An inventory of floral was undertaken at Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary. Presence of butterflies and birds was also studied as these serve as pollinating agents and seed dispersal agents hence play a vital role in vegetational studies. Approximately 5% of the sanctuary was studied. A total of 161 species were recorded belonging to 57 families. A total of 74 species of birds were recorded during this study. 49 different species of Butterflies were observed during the study. Executive Summary
  3. Marine Biodiversity of The Mumbai Metropolitan Region – Its Conservation and Restoration Marine Biodiversity
    The project was allotted to us by Chief Conservator of Forest, Mangroves. The scope of the project was to ascertain the existing marine biodiversity in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region and suggest strategies for its conservation and restoration. Executive Summary

2017-18

  1. Development of DPR for Nature safari and allied Eco-Tourism activities at Mohrengna
    The Chief Conservator of Forest, Raipur invited bids from organisations to develop a DPR for Nature safari and allied Eco-Tourism activities at Mohrenga. The organisation competed and bagged the tender.
    Mohrenga is 542.43 Ha of forest patch about 40 kms from Raipur on Kharora-Tilda road. It had a good tree cover due to plantation that was done on that patch some 30 years ago. The dominant species are Bamboo, Aonla, Teak and other allied species. About 140 plus spotted deer and about 300-400 wild boars were present in the patch. Water availability was substantial. Some activities to promote eco-tourism had already been executed by the Forest Department. We made the presentation and also received a letter of allotment from the CCF. However the project did not take off.
  2. Removal of Chromolaena odorata (raanmodi) from Sanjay Gandhi National Park – A Human and Leopard Conflict Perspective
    The organization was allotted a task to develop a mechanism to reduce the spread of Chromolaena odorata (raanmodi) in Sanjay Gandhi National Park. This project was undertaken as a pilot project in Tulsi range of Sanjay Gandhi National Park. Rapid survey was conducted to ascertain the spread of the weed. Secondary data available with the divisional office was examined. As there is no single methodology to combat the spread of Chromolaena odorata, a mix of a number of removal methods were employed for control of the infestation of the weed. At the onset a one day workshop was conducted for this purpose and the staff was given an understanding of the problem and which techniques need to be applied in order to control the infestation. Executive Summary
  3. Monitoring of Leopards to understand their movement pattern in Sanjay Gandhi National Park
    Monitoring wildlife can provide many unique insights into the health and productivity of forest. Wildlife observations and monitoring can help understand the habitat and help achieve management objectives by: (i) identifying ecologically important areas and habitat features; (ii) collecting baseline data to compare against future assessments; (iii) identifying potential problems
    Monitoring of leopards under this project was been done to study the movement pattern and the frequency of movement in the Tulsi range of Sanjay Gandhi National Park. This range has extensive leopard movement and cases of conflicts between Humans and Leopards in the past had been quite frequent. Executive Summary

2018-19

  1. Mapping of Hutment (Encroachment) in Sanjay Gandhi National Park
    The Encroachment / Illegal Hutments/ settlements project was undertaken by the SGNP in collaboration and technical support from the Wildlife and We Protection Foundation and the SATS Integrated Conservation Solutions Private Ltd, both from Mumbai. To deal with the serious threat of encroachments to the national parks, it was decided jointly by the SGNP and the aforesaid two organisations that a detailed ground survey is required to be undertaken along with spatial reference to High Resolution Satellite Imageries. For the purpose of the project the Digital Globe- Worldview II satellite data was used and a detailed ground survey of all the illegal settlements/ encroachment was done by the combined team of the three organisations. Executive Summary
  2. Redrafting of Tiger Conservation Plan of Indravati Tiger Reserve as per the suggestion of NTCA
    We were requested by Deputy Field Director, Indravati Tiger Reserve to provide our technical inputs in redrafting of the Tiger Conservation Plan. The Indravati Tiger Reserve has rich bio-diversity, large contiguous forest and area wise it is the largest Tiger Reserve in central India. The name of the national park is derived from the perennial river Indravati forming the northern and western boundary of the park, which is also the interstate boundary between the states of Chhattisgarh and Maharashtra. The area is located on east and south of Indravati river, teak, bamboo and mixed forests are the beauty of this reserve. The forests of the Indravati Tiger Reserve are the last abode of the state animal “wild buffalo’’, their population is estimated to be in between 35-40 in this area. The ecological richness of the Indravati Tiger Reserve is very high. The flora and fauna contribute equally to the richness of this ecosystem. Indravati Tiger Reserve consists of 102 different species of trees, 28 species of climbers, 46 species of shrubs and herbs, 32 species of grasses and 02 species of bamboo and several ferns, bryophytes and algae. It has a variety of wild animals, which comprises of mammals, amphibians, birds, fish, insects and butterflies. The task was undertaken in March 2018.
 

2019-20

1- Developing Payment of Ecosystem Services (PES) Mechanisms for Sanjay Gandhi National Park- A Revenue Generating Model
Payments for ecosystem services (PES) is a voluntary transaction for an environmental service (or a land use likely to secure that service), purchased by at least one environmental service buyer from at least one environmental service provider, if and only if the environmental service provider meets the conditions of the contract and secures the environmental service provision. In order to assess potential services for which markets may be identified under PES arrangements, the ecosystem services flowing from SGNP were first reviewed. This review was based on the Millennium Ecosystem Assessment (2005) framework of provisioning, regulating, cultural and supporting services, with a number of commonly applied addenda. The assessment framework was adapted from the Ramsar Commission-adopted RAWES (Rapid Assessment of Wetland Ecosystem Services) approach. Executive Summary

2- Redrafting of Tiger Conservation Plan (TCP) of Indravati Tiger Reserve as per the suggestion of NTCA

 The completely overhauled and redrafted Tiger Conservation Plan of Indravati Tiger Reserve was submitted in January 19-20 to the Hon. CCF and Field Director, Indravati Tiger Reserve for onwards submission to the National Tiger Conservation Authority.

3- Commissioned as a consultant for development of Chandrapur Forest Academy of Administration Development and Management as a ‘Center of Excellence’ in the field of forest, wildlife, environment and allied issues.

The organisation undertook the task of developing the Chandrapur Forest Academy of Administration Development and Management as a ‘Center of Excellence’ in the field of forest, wildlife, environment and allied issues and the following activities were undertaken and successfully completed over a period of one year i.e from February-2019 to February-2020. Presentation of Plan

i) Developing the academic, training, capacity and competency building framework for the academy with a vision to ‘ Establish, Develop and Emerge as one of the leading ‘Center of Excellence’ in Forestry, Environment, Natural Resource Conservation and Sustainable Development in the country.

ii) Conducting Training Needs Assessments (TNA) and curriculum development for short, moderate and long term courses in various disciplines across 10 schools/faculties proposed to be established.

iii) Facilitation for development of a ‘State of the Art’ – Maharashtra State Wildlife Forensic Laboratory(MSWFL) in collaboration with Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun..

iv) Facilitated and conducted a U.K. Advisory Mission to the Chandrapur Forest Academy with the aim of establishing a collaboration between the Chandrapur Forest Academy and Bangor University, United Kingdom. A two member delegation comprising a) Dr. Shaun Russel, an International Expert on Natural Resource Management, Forestry, Wildlife, Eco-Systems Services Assessment and Eco-Tourism from Bangor University, UK and b) Dr. Nicholas Jackson, Director, Snow Leopard Mountain Zoo. North Wales, UK and member of World Association of Zoos and Aquarium (WAZA) visited the academy for three days from 25th to 27th June 2019 on an advisory mission. A Memorandum of Understanding signed by the Vice Chancellor of the Bangor University, UK has been submitted to the Director, Chandrapur Forest Academy by the Wildlife and We Protection Foundation.

2020-21

 Up-gradation of Chhattisgarh State Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan

The Biodiversity Strategy & Action Plan (BSAP) establishes a general frame work for the State’s Policy on conservation & sustainable use of its biological resources, defines their current status, identifies processes leading to its deterioration and sets out guidelines and specific programmes for future action.  It is regarded as a bridge between the National Biodiversity Strategy & Action Plan (NBSAP) and role of the State government for application of measures & actions at the ground level.

We have been appointed by the Chhattisgarh State Biodiversity Board as ‘Project Management Consultation Agency (PMC)’ for the implementation of UNDP sponsored project on Up-gradation of Chhattisgarh State Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan.

2. Development of Wildlife Mitigation Plan and identification of Endemic and Endangered species in submergence area of Tillari Hydro Electric Project (THEP)

We were commissioned by the Irrigation Department of Maharashtra to develop Wildlife Mitigation Plan and identification of Endemic and Endangered species in submergence area of Tillari Hydro Electric Project (THEP) under which three subsidiary storages were supposed to be constructed at Bandra, Pale-Parmar & Bhandora nallas. A total of 259 species were recorded from the entire proposed project area. 2 critically endangered, 3 endangered, 5 vulnerable and 5 rare plant species were recorded from the Project area. Presence of 1 endangered and 4 vulnerable faunal species was recorded from the Project area. The Wildlife Mitigation Plan was successfully submitted to the project proponent.

3. Development of People’s Biodiversity Register (PBR) of Gariaband and Koriya, Chhattisgarh

The program of People’s Biodiversity Register (PBR) is designed as a tool for the formal maintenance of the local knowledge with proper validation. PBR is a record of knowledge, perception and attitude of people about natural resources, plants and animals, their utilization and conservation in a village or a panchayat. PBR is also proposed as a mechanism to create awareness among the people about the condition of plants and animals and their conservation and sustainable utilization. This mechanism can bring the people to participate in development planning which would be ecologically sustainable and socially justifiable. People’s Biodiversity Register is a tool for collecting and documenting biodiversity data. Local communities need to be encouraged and trained to be the principal participants in this process. When communities maintain their registers, it will foster greater conservation of this natural resource base.

The task of developing 70 PBRs of Gariaband and 150 PBRs for Koriya Forest Divisions of Chhattisgarh State were commissioned to the organisation by the Chhattisgarh State Biodiversity Board.

4.Identification, Strategic planning, aimed at protection, management, restoration and conservation of wildlife corridors in territorial/ managed forest divisions : Strategy and Action Plan for Conservation of Corridors (SPCC) in Chhattisgarh State.

The Chhattisgarh State Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority (State CAMPA) published an Expression of Interest (EOI) for appointment of consultant for identification, Strategic planning, aimed at protection, management, restoration and conservation of wildlife corridors in territorial/ managed forest divisions. We competed, bagged the EOI and were commissioned to conduct this project. The scope of work done under the project was as follows: Executive Summary

 Scope A.     Identification of various wildlife/Biodiversity corridors present in territorial forest apart from those identified by WII.

 Scope B.     Preparation of ‘Strategic Plan’ for effective functioning of all such corridors including those identified by WII.

2020-21

1. Identification, Strategic planning, aimed at protection, management, restoration and conservation of wildlife corridors in territorial/ managed forest divisions

The Project Report has been submitted to the CEO CAMPA. A handbook was also prepared for the purpose of implementation and has been submitted too.

2. Development of People’s Biodiversity Register (PBR) of Gariaband and Koriya, Chhattisgarh

The process of PBR making of both the districts is on-going. Till 1st May 2021, 70 PBRs for Gariaband and 57 PBRs for Koriya Districts were successfully completed.

3. On- Line ‘Series of Short-Term courses on Conservation of Forests, Wildlife, Environment and Allied Natural Resources’

The series was started on 09th August 2020 till January-2021. 

2021-22

1. Online Short Term (One-week) Courses on issues and subjects related to  ‘ Conservation of Forests, Wildlife, Natural Resources, Environment in general and Allied issues and disciplines.

The organisation was commissioned to conduct an Online Short Term (One-week) Courses on issues and subjects related to  ‘ Conservation of Forests, Wildlife, Natural Resources, Environment in general and Allied issues and disciplines for a period of 6 months (extendable further) on 25th January 2021.

2.Tiger Conservation Plan for Pench Tiger Reserve, Madhya Pradesh

The organisation undertook the task of developing the Core, Adjoining Areas and Security Plan of the Tiger Conservation Plan for Pench Tiger Reserve – Madhya Pradesh. The plan was completed and submitted to the Field Director. Pench Tiger Reserve comprises the Indira Priyadarshini Pench National Park, the Pench Mowgli Sanctuary and a buffer. The Tiger Reserve nestles in the Southern Slopes of the Satpura ranges of Central India. The river Pench, which splits the National Park into two, forms the lifeline of the Park. To the south of the tiger reserve lies the Pench Tiger Reserve of Maharashtra, the first inter-state project tiger area of the country. Pench Tiger Reserve of Madhya Pradesh is contiguous with Pench Tiger Reserve of Maharashtra, and is also connected to Kanha Tiger Reserve through the forests of Seoni, Balaghat and Mandla districts. Along the eastern boundary of the reserve, around 10 km stretch of the national highway, NH44 connecting Nagpur and Jabalpur acts as a barrier for habitat connectivity with Kanha Tiger Reserve. The area of Kanha-Pench corridor spread over 3145.65 sq.km in which 2532.39 sq. km is forest area and rest 613.26 sq. km are revenue land, is one of the most crucial forest corridors in the central Indian landscape that act as a refuge for dispersing tigers and several other animals

3.Tiger Conservation Plan for Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve, Madhya Pradesh

The organisation undertook the task of upgrading the Tiger Conservation Plan for Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve – Madhya Pradesh. The plan was upgraded and submitted to the Field Director.

Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve forms part of the Central Indian Highlands. It is located between the Vindhyan and the eastern flanks the of Satpura hill ranges. It falls mostly in Umaria (80%) Katni (10%) and Shahdol (10%) districts of Madhya Pradesh. The Reserve lies between 230 27′ 00” to 230 59′ 50″ North latitude and 800 43′ 15″ to 810 15′ 45″ East longitude. The reserve is largely surrounded by Umaria Forest. A short stretch of Katni Forest is located in the west and North Shahdol forest on the North-East along the Son River. There are several roads criss-crossing the reserve. State Highway No. 11 connecting Umaria and Rewa breaks the continuity of the Reserve (ref. Map 1.1). The highway stretches from Khitauli to Tala range and bisects the Panpatha Sanctuary. Another road passing through Parasi, Khitauli and Barhi divides the Khitauli range. The western part of this range is in the form of a strip; whose width at places becomes narrow by 3 to 4 km. This strip further extends beyond Umrar River. The Protected Area comprises of two conservation units viz. the Bandhavgarh National Park having an area of 452.666 sq. km (including 12.66 sq. km of Revenue patches) and Panpatha Wildlife Sanctuary having an area of 264.235 sq. km. Both the units are under the unified administration of Tiger Reserve

2022-23

1.The Wildlife Conservation Plan (WCP) for the area in the ESZ of the Chandoli N.P. surrounding the Proposed site of Expansion of Dalmia Bharat Sugar and Industries Limited, Unit- Ninaidevi, Kokrud), Tehsil – Shirala,  Sangli, Maharashtra

The organization was commissioned by Dalmia Bharat Sugar and Industries to prepare Wildlife Conservation Plan (WCP) for the area in the ESZ of the Chandoli N.P. surrounding the Proposed site of Expansion of Dalmia Bharat Sugar and Industries Limited, Unit- Ninaidevi, Kokrud), Tehsil – Shirala, Sangli, Maharashtra. The aforesaid project location falls in in the deemed 10 Km Eco-sensitive Zone around the periphery of the Chandoli National Park. In order to seek an approval as per the prevailing laws and regulations in vogue, the Competent Authority in the Government of Maharashtra has made it mandatory for the project proponent to prepare and submit a Wildlife Conservation Plan (WCP) for its consideration for approval. Preparation of such a WCP is also a prerequisite laid out in partial fulfillment of proposal for Environmental Clearance of the Project which was under consideration of the Competent Authority in the MOEF & CC, Government of India. Thus, the need of the WCP. Executive Summary

2. Strategic Plan for Conservation of Corridors and Tiger Dispersal Areas in Mukutban Range and its surrounds in Pandharkawda Division, Yavatmal Forest Circle – A Special Emphasis on the RCCPL Cement Project Mining Site

Reserved Forest Area of 467.45 ha. in Forest Compartment No. C-26, C-27 and C-33 A in village Hirapur, Govindpur and Piparwadi in Pandharkawda Forest Division of Yavatmal Forest Circle in Maharashtra was slated for diversion for limestone mining activity. The Stage II Clearance had already been allocated to the aforesaid project by the MOEF & CC, Government of India. The Stage II Clearance had been granted to the project on 12-09-2017 and the Government of Maharashtra issued the diversion order on 22-01-2018. However, in the meanwhile it was noticed by the respective forest authorities in their respective jurisdiction that the aforesaid project site of the RCCPL is strategically located within an intervening landscape complex of 3 Protect Areas namely the Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve, Tipeshwar Wildlife Sanctuary in Maharashtra and the Kawal Tiger Reserve in the Telegana State and that it may adversely affect the intervening corridors in the region thereby adversely affecting the dispersal of tigers. We were commissioned by RCCPL to make the Strategic Plan. Executive Summary

3. Wildlife Management and Mitigation Plan for the Chandrapur Super Thermal Power Station (CSTPS), Chandrapur

Around five Tigers known to be inside, have made the thermal power station area their permanent home over the past four or five years. The Chandrapur Super Thermal Power Station (CSTPS) is connected to Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve (TATR) through a corridor of coal mines that is thickly covered with Prosopis species. Adequate prey base in the form of stray cattle and wild boars, substantial tree cover and a perennial nullah passing through the CSTPS help meet all the basic needs of these resident Tigers. Tigers would come to the thermal power station from the TATR earlier as well. However, it would always be a fleeting visit, which would often go unnoticed by people. Now, Tigers have made the CSTPS their habitat, staying alongside people with ease. Tiger sighting in the CSTPS did not bother the staff a couple of years ago but the fact that Tigers are making the thermal power station their habitat had them worried. In order to find the solution to this issue it was decided by the CSTPS that a Wildlife Management and Mitigation Plan needs to be made. We were therefore commissioned by the CSTPS to make the plan.