TATA : Indian Institute of Skills
Praful Sawarkar
To strengthen conservation through community participation, Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve (TATR) is reducing local dependence on forests by creating sustainable livelihood opportunities.
The Need :
- TATR is home to 95 buffer villages
- Local dependency on forests often leads to human-wildlife conflict
- Generating alternate income sources is crucial for conservation success
TATA-IIS Skill Development Program :
- In partnership with TATA Indian Institute of Skills (TATA-IIS)
- Local dependency on forests often leads to human-wildlife conflict
- Offers industry-relevant training in:
- Professional Cooking - 3 months
- Houskeeping - 45 days
Impact :
- 51 local youth trained under the program
- Job placements in 3-star, 5-star hotels, resorts, and hospitality chains
- Youth now employed in resorts near TATR, Ahmedabad, and other states
Why It Matters :
- Empowers rural youth with marketable skills
- Reduces economic dependency on forests
- Helps minimize human-wildlife conflict
- Strengthens community bonds with long-term conservation goals
This pioneering initiative is a step toward making local communities active partners in conservation, while enhancing livelihood security and dignity for Tadoba’s youth.
