The Eastern Ghats are among India’s most valuable yet lesser-known biodiversity landscapes, supporting a remarkable variety of flora and fauna, including many species that are still poorly documented.
Every forest, hill, stream, and woodland holds unique stories of wildlife that deserve to be discovered, understood, and protected.
Conservation is a long-term commitment. It cannot be achieved overnight. Much like planting a sapling, meaningful conservation requires patience, dedication, and consistent effort before it grows into something that benefits both nature and future generations.
Over the years, we have worked closely with tribal communities to raise awareness about the conservation of small wild cats and other wildlife species. With the continued support of the Wildlife Trust of India (WTI) and the Wikimedia Foundation, these awareness initiatives are now producing encouraging results by inspiring local communities to actively participate in wildlife protection.
A recent incident reflects the positive impact of these efforts. Jagannath Hantal and Deepa Rani Nayak, who regularly participated in our wildlife awareness workshops, discovered an injured Jungle Cat in the wild. Recognising the urgency of the situation, they immediately informed the Odisha Forest Department. The Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) responded promptly by deploying a rescue team, and the animal was safely rescued and provided with the necessary care.
This incident demonstrates that conservation is not only about protecting wildlife in forests; it is equally about empowering people with knowledge and encouraging them to take responsible action when wildlife needs help. Every species, regardless of its size or popularity, plays an essential role in maintaining the balance of our ecosystems, and every life deserves care and protection.
I extend my sincere gratitude to the Odisha Forest Department, the Wildlife Trust of India (WTI), the Wikimedia Foundation, the local tribal communities, and every individual who continues to support wildlife conservation. Together, we can safeguard the extraordinary biodiversity of the Eastern Ghats, particularly the forests of Malkangiri, Odisha, ensuring that this natural heritage is protected for generations to come.
Contributed by K. Shiva Kumar: Master’s in Journalism and Mass Communication | Conservation Storyteller | Wildlife Photographer
