WTI Report Highlights the Crucial Role of India’s Forest Protectors
Context
The Wildlife Trust of India (WTI) released a report titled “Guardians of the Wild: Supporting India’s Frontline Forest Staff”, marking 25 years of its work supporting forest protectors.
Key Highlights of the Report
Recognition of Van Rakshaks (Forest Rangers):
India’s Van Rakshaks are responsible for safeguarding over 1,100 protected areas, along with numerous forests and wildlife habitats.
They perform duties such as:
24×7 patrolling and wildlife monitoring,
Handling human-wildlife conflicts,
Combating wildlife trafficking and poaching,
Emergency rescue and response operations.
Casualties and Challenges:
The report documents 540 forest staff who were killed or injured in the line of duty.
These narratives highlight the life-threatening conditions, lack of adequate insurance, and limited recognition faced by forest protectors.
Van Rakshak Project (VRP):
Launched in 2000 by WTI with support from the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW).
Objective: Build a trained, equipped, and motivated frontline forest protection force.
Has supported over 21,000 personnel through:
Skill development,
Capacity building,
Emergency aid and welfare support.
Supplementary Accident Assurance Scheme:
Provides financial assistance to staff or their families in case of injury or death in duty.
Since 2001:
Aid extended to 367 personnel/families,
74% cases involved fatalities.
COVID-19 Support:
WTI created a Conservation Heroes COVID Casualty Fund, supporting 173 families of forest staff who lost their lives during the pandemic.
Wildlife Trust of India (WTI)
Type: Charitable Trust under the Government of India Act
Founded: 1998
Headquarters: Noida, Uttar Pradesh
Overview
The Wildlife Trust of India (WTI) is a major wildlife conservation action organization working to protect India’s wildlife and habitats.
It works in close collaboration with:
The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC), Government of India, and
State Forest and Wildlife Departments across India.
History and Mission
Established in 1998, in response to the growing crises facing India’s wildlife and ecosystems.
it is a non-profit conservation organization
Mission:
To conserve nature, especially endangered species and threatened habitats, through partnerships with communities and governments.
Major Operations and Reach
Works across 23 Indian states with 45+ conservation projects.
Geographical range of work includes:
Pir Panjal mountains (Kashmir)
Mangrove forests of Kannur (Kerala)
Himalayan black bear habitats (Arunachal Pradesh)
Whale shark aggregation zones (Gujarat coast)
Wildlife Centres
Centre for Wildlife Rehabilitation and Conservation (CWRC) –
Jointly run by WTI and Assam Forest Department,
Supported by the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW).
Provides emergency rescue, rehabilitation, and care for injured and displaced wild animals.
International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW)
Founded: 1969
Founder: Brian Davies
Headquarters: The Hague, Netherlands (moved from Yarmouth Port, Massachusetts, USA in 2020)
Operational Presence: Over 40 countries
Type: Global Animal Welfare and Conservation Charity
Overview
The IFAW is one of the largest animal welfare and conservation organizations in the world.
It works to rescue individual animals, protect populations, preserve habitats, and advocate for stronger animal protection laws at the global level.
History
Founded in 1969 to stop the commercial hunting of seal pups on the east coast of Canada.
Founder: Brian Davies, a noted wildlife conservationist.
Major Success:
In 1983, IFAW’s campaigns led to a European ban on whitecoat harp seal products, saving over one million seals.
Prelims Practice MCQ
Q. Consider the following statements about the Wildlife Trust of India (WTI):
It is a statutory body under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.
It was established in 1998 to address the crises faced by India’s wildlife.
The Centre for Wildlife Rehabilitation and Conservation (CWRC) is jointly managed by WTI and the Assam Forest Department.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2, and 3
✅ Answer: (b) 2 and 3 only