Pune Grassland Safari Celebrates One Year Of Success

Pune, January 2, 2025: The Pune Forest Division proudly celebrated the first anniversary of its pioneering Grassland Safari initiative. Conceptualized by the department, this project has successfully promoted conservation awareness, supported local communities, and showcased the unique biodiversity of Pune’s grasslands.

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 a variety of wildlife, including wolves, hyenas, Chinkara (Indian gazelles), Indian foxes, grassland birds, and reptiles, making it an exciting destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.

Key Achievements in the First Year: 

Total Safaris Conducted: 3,044

Employment Impact: Around 30 families benefitted directly and indirectly.

Income Generated:

Nature guides from Kadbanwadi and Shirsufal earned ₹15,22,000 collectively.

The Forest Department generated an additional ₹19,55,300.

Total Revenue: ₹34,77,300, with Kadbanwadi alone contributing 75% of the income.

The initiative has provided consistent employment to trained local guides while indirectly supporting related businesses, creating a robust model of eco-tourism with conservation at its heart.

Voices Behind the Initiative: 

 N R Praveen (Chief Conservator Of Forest, Pune) said, “The grassland safari is a remarkable example of how conservation and livelihood generation can go hand in hand. It not only showcases the ecological richness of our grasslands but also ensures direct benefits for the local communities. The enthusiasm from visitors and the support from villagers over the past year reaffirm our belief in the potential of such eco-tourism initiatives.”

Mahadeo Mohite (DyCF, Pune) said, 

“This initiative is a milestone in the Forest Department’s efforts to conserve grasslands and engage local communities. The dedication of our team and the participation of locals have been the driving force behind this success. We look forward to enhancing the safari experience in the coming years.”

Contributions of Forest Staff: 

The initiative’s success is a result of the unwavering dedication of local Range Forest Officers, Round Officers, Forest Guards, and field staff. Their efforts in managing the safaris, protecting the grasslands, and educating visitors have been instrumental in ensuring the project’s smooth functioning and impact.

Empowering Local Communities: 

A key focus of the grassland safari has been community development. Local residents from Kadbanwadi and Shirsufal were trained as nature guides, earning ₹15,22,000 in total over the year. The safari also created indirect employment opportunities, supporting around 30 families. This income has brought much-needed stability and prosperity to these rural communities, transforming lives and fostering goodwill among villagers.

A Model for Conservation and Eco-Tourism

By promoting awareness of the grassland ecosystem’s importance, the safari has become a model for sustainable eco-tourism. Visitors not only enjoy an immersive wildlife experience but also contribute to the preservation of these habitats.

The initiative underscores the ecological significance of grasslands, which often receive less attention than forests, and positions them as crucial ecosystems that support diverse flora and fauna.

A Year of Pride and Progress

As the Pune Grassland Safari marks its first anniversary, the project has become a symbol of successful collaboration between the Forest Department and local communities. The overwhelming response from visitors and the tangible socio-economic benefits to villagers have created a win-win scenario for conservation and community development.

With plans to further expand and improve the initiative, the Pune Forest Division aims to inspire similar eco-tourism projects across the state and country, making conservation a shared responsibility and celebration.