Securing local support for conservation of wildlife

Human-animal conflict is one of the principle drivers behind declines in wild animal populations and in particular elephants and tigers. A extensive and dynamic community participation programme in the forest fringe villages around Corbett Tiger Reserve and other key areas to combat human- animal conflict has been formulated, including :

Education

Education and cultural exchange workshops will be held in collaboration with the Forest Department to build a team of motivated individuals to help in the protection of wildlife along forest fringe villages, communicating the long-term value and benefits of maintaining the regions biodiversity and security.

Health and added facilities

Health and added facilities are to be integrated in the programme. A mobile clinic and added facilities in community centres and children’s schools to be implemented.

The Jim Corbett Trust

The Jim Corbett Trust was introduced in India by Sanskara with the support of The British Council in New Delhi in January 2006. As part of its aim to revive lost legacies of great environmental and cultural value for future generations the Jim Corbett Trust, proposes to inspire people to work for wildlife conservation in India; the trust largely focusing its activities in the state of Uttarakhand.

Objectives of the Jim Corbett Trust

The long term objective of the Trust is to help in the protection and conservation of forests, rivers, wild animals and the wild places in Uttarakhand, that have been documented by Jim Corbett.

To carry out conservation work in the areas in Uttarakhand (India) and any part of the country for the benefit of wildlife.
To help preserve buildings, possessions, donations and artifacts relevant to and connected with the Late Col. Edward James Corbett.
To carry out the activities directly related to wildlife conservation in terms of educational awareness and training, with government, NGO’s and individuals.
To support selectively and where appropriate those other organizations and individuals with related interests, such as those combating poaching.
To seek the active participation and involvement of the local communities through art, culture and education activities and improve living conditions by health and sanitation programs as well as by providing alternative means of livelihood and considering the possibility of establishing renewable energy sources at village levels.
To explore the possibilities and establish collaborative management of ecological resources with local communities in & around the protected forest, national & state councils, Government of India, NGOs, institutions and individuals.
To generate environmental awareness among village school children through various nature conservation programmes and inspire them to be guardians of wildlife.
To document ‘Jim Corbett’s Trails’, and related correspondence through various mediums- publications, films etc., with the aim of conserving the environment and forests through gathering public support and participation from a cross section of society.
To selectively work with organizations and individuals around the world which protect and preserve Jim Corbett’s heritage.

The Sanskara Development Trust, on behalf of the Jim Corbett Trust, has been undertaking a blend of activities in & around Corbett’s village at Choti Haldwani, Nainital, Uttarakhand.

Achievements