Context:
The Wildlife Trust of India (WTI) recently published “Guardians of the Wild”, a report that pays tribute to the Van Rakshak / frontline forest‑staff cadre across India.
About the report:
“Guardians of the Wild” is a documentary-style compilation of real-life narratives, case studies, and photographs that detail the experiences of forest guards, mahouts, trackers, and local community members working on the frontlines of wildlife conservation in India. It offers a rare glimpse into their day-to-day challenges, ranging from:
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- Human-wildlife conflict situations
- Anti-poaching patrols
- Natural disasters
- Long hours of surveillance and protection in extreme terrains
- Human-wildlife conflict situations
A Call for Recognition and Reform:
The report comes at a critical time when India’s protected areas are under increasing stress from habitat loss, climate change, and encroachment. Yet, the first line of defense — forest frontline workers — remain under-resourced, underpaid, and under-recognized.
Key demands highlighted in the publication include:
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- Better insurance coverage and health benefits
- Adequate training and safety equipment
- Mental health support
- Inclusion in formal policymaking discussions
- Better insurance coverage and health benefits
About WTI:
The Wildlife Trust of India (WTI) is a premier charitable trust dedicated to wildlife conservation in India. Established in 1998 in New Delhi, WTI operates under the Government of India Act as a registered trust, with its headquarters based in Noida, Uttar Pradesh. WTI is recognized as one of India's most impactful organizations working towards the protection and preservation of wildlife.
Core Services:
WTI’s multifaceted approach includes:
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- Emergency Rescue of injured or distressed wildlife
- Species Recovery programs focused on endangered and threatened species
- Conservation Action through habitat restoration and community engagement
- Wildlife Rehabilitation aimed at releasing rescued animals back into the wild
- Enforcement and Law support to combat poaching and illegal wildlife trade
- Emergency Rescue of injured or distressed wildlife
Conclusion:
The launch of Guardians of the Wild is more than a publication — it is a movement to humanize conservation and shift the focus toward those who implement it on the ground. WTI calls on government bodies, civil society, and the general public to extend greater institutional support and dignity to India’s forest frontline force.
