Report “Guardians of the Wild” Highlights 25 Years of Support for India’s Forest Protectors

Union Minister Kirti Vardhan Singh releases WTI report at IUCN World Conservation Congress 2025 in Abu Dhabi

Key Highlights:

• Report Launch:
  Union Minister of State for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Shri Kirti Vardhan Singh released the report “Guardians of the Wild: Supporting India’s Frontline Forest Staff” at the IUCN World Conservation Congress 2025 held in Abu Dhabi.
• Prepared By:
  The report marks 25 years of support extended by the Wildlife Trust of India (WTI) to India’s frontline forest protectors — the men and women responsible for defending the nation’s natural heritage.
• Focus of the Report:
  • Highlights the critical role and immense challenges faced by India’s frontline forest staff, often referred to as “Van Rakshaks” or forest rangers.
  • Acknowledges them as the “unsung heroes” of India’s biodiversity conservation efforts.
  • Emphasizes their role in protecting over 1,100 protected areas along with numerous other forests and natural habitats across the country.
• About the Van Rakshak Project (VRP):
  • Launched in 2000 by the Wildlife Trust of India (WTI) with support from the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW).
  • Aims to build a strong, well-equipped, and motivated force of frontline forest staff across India.
  • Over the past 25 years, the project has supported more than 21,000 personnel through various capacity-building and welfare initiatives, including training, safety gear distribution, and skill enhancement programs.
• Significance:
  • The report underscores the vital contribution of forest staff in protecting India’s wildlife from threats such as poaching, forest fires, and human-wildlife conflict.
  • Reinforces the need for continued investment, training, and welfare measures for these frontline defenders of India’s ecosystems.

In Essence:
The “Guardians of the Wild” report celebrates 25 years of the Van Rakshak Project, recognizing the dedication and courage of India’s forest protectors who serve as the first line of defense in conserving the country’s rich biodiversity and natural heritage.