We partner with village committees, tribal groups, and NGOs to build lasting livelihoods, reduce pressure on forests, and restore ecosystems — together with clear plans and transparent funding.
Community engagement is a core element of conservation in the Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve. Local communities play a vital role in the protection, management, and sustainable use of forest resources. The reserve encourages active participation of forest-dependent people through Village Forest Committees (VFCs), Joint Forest Management Committees (JFMCs), Tribal VFCs, and Eco-Development Committees (EDCs).
Our goals for community-based conservation
To involve local communities in the protection and management of forest resources
To improve the socio-economic conditions of forest-dependent and tribal families
To promote alternative livelihood opportunities and reduce pressure on forests
To ensure equitable sharing of benefits from conservation and development
To raise awareness and build local capacity for biodiversity protection
To promote sustainable management and utilization of forest resources
A network of community-based institutions empowering local participation in conservation
Committees prepare and implement micro-plans that integrate livelihood improvement with habitat conservation
Members directly involved in protection works, eco-development programs, and forest restoration activities
Revenue from Non-Timber Forest Produce shared with committees for local development
Revenue from eco-tourism activities shared with committees to support community development
Comprehensive initiatives for community empowerment and conservation
Involvement of Non-Governmental Organizations in community mobilization, awareness creation, capacity building, and implementation of livelihood programs. NGOs work closely with forest departments to bridge communities and conservation efforts.
Multi-departmental coordination for holistic development
Community engagement activities are implemented in coordination with district departments to ensure comprehensive development and support for forest-dependent communities.
District Rural Development Agency
Tribal Development Programs
Medical Services & Camps
Schools & Educational Support
Livestock & Veterinary Services
Gram Panchayats & Community
A district-level coordination committee addresses the grievances of tribal and forest-dependent people, ensuring their concerns are heard and resolved effectively.
Provides financial and institutional support for eco-development and livelihood programs, ensuring sustainable conservation efforts.
Participatory planning and sustainable financing mechanisms
Each EDC prepares village-level micro-plans through participatory rural appraisal (PRA) methods
Plans are reviewed and approved by forest authorities before implementation with community consent
Implemented with support from NTCA, state schemes, and Tiger Conservation Foundation
Healthcare, education, drinking water, and basic amenities for tribal settlements
Roads, community halls, water facilities, and essential infrastructure
Afforestation, soil conservation, water harvesting, and ecosystem improvement
Alternative income generation, skill training, and sustainable enterprises
Ensuring transparency, accountability, and effectiveness
Forest officers conduct regular reviews to evaluate the progress of community-based activities and program effectiveness
Regular audits and field inspections ensure transparency in fund utilization and adherence to guidelines
Committees maintain revolving funds for income generation activities and long-term financial sustainability
Be a part of our community-driven conservation journey at Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve