Wildlife Protection
Rationale
Forests are repositories of countless species of plants and animals and form the catchment area for innumerable life-giving rivers apart from playing the undisputed role of climate regulators. Forest degradation and poaching are two of the major threats to wildlife and natural habitats. The future of innumerable wild species, including long ranging mammals such as tigers, lions, elephants, etc. is closely linked with the protection of large contiguous stretches of forests. Therefore it is imperative to strengthen the protection mechanism of the Forest Department.
WCT Interventions
WCT respects and values the role of forest staff in maintaining the integrity of forests and wildlife and believes that a well-trained and motivated field staff is a prerequisite for healthy ecosystems. In its endeavour to support and enhance the work of the government, WCT provides equipment, vehicles and training to forest guards and other forest personnel whose quality of life and living conditions it seeks to improve. WCT also works closely with local communities (people living around Protected Areas) to reduce their dependence on forests by providing alternate employment options and systematic life-skill training. Providing adequate medical facilities and health care is an important aspect of the organisation’s work.
Training of Forest Staff
WCT conducts capacity building workshops for forest staff to sharpen their skills, enhance their existing knowledge and help them handle tricky situations. Such activities have a trickle-down effect on new recruits. An important component of these trainings is wildlife law to help field staff prepare robust charge-sheets while booking wildlife offenders.
Supporting grassroot NGO?
Local NGOs/individuals are well-versed with the issues of the region they work/live in. By aligning WCTs goals with that of such NGOs/individuals we are able to be more effective in our work. Having understood that funding is often a limiting factor in remote areas, WCT attempts to support such organisations/individuals to ensure they can continue their work.
