17 hours Ago
Pune: The grassland safari project has taken off a a good start with the Pune forest division and local guides generating a revenue of Rs 34 lakh. Operating across Kadbanwadi in Indapur tehsil and Shirsufal in Baramati tehsil, the safari offers visitors a close-up view of the grassland ecosystem. The region is home to wolves, hyenas, chinkara (Indian gazelle), foxes, grassland birds and reptiles.
The project provided an income source to 30 local families who worked as guides for over 3,000 tours in the last year. The initiative promoted conservation awareness, supported local communities and showcased the unique biodiversity of Pune's grasslands. The nature guides alone generated Rs 15 lakh as income.
The effort provides consistent employment to trained local guides while indirectly supporting related businesses, creating a robust model of eco-tourism with conservation at its heart, the department said. "The grassland safari is an example of how conservation and livelihood generation can go hand-in-hand. It showcases the ecological richness of our grasslands and ensures direct benefits for the local communities," N R Praveen, chief conservator of forests, Pune, said.
Pune forest division hopes to inspire similar eco-tourism projects elsewhere, he added. Stay updated with the latest news on Times of India . Don't miss daily games like Crossword , Sudoku , Location Guesser and Mini Crossword .
Spread love this holiday season with these Christmas wishes , messages , and quotes ..
