The Hindu : Front Page : Development activities in tiger reserve

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Monday, Jun 22, 2009
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Development activities in tiger reserve

V.S. Palaniappan

Pollachi: To generate alternate employment for tribals in the buffer zones along the reserve forest boundaries so as to eliminate human interference in the 958 sq. km. Anaimalai Tiger Reserve (ATR), authorities have formed eco development committees in 10 villages.

ATR field director H. Basuvaraju said of the 94 tribal villages/hamlets identified in the zone, eco development activities had been initiated through Eco Development Committees (EDCs) in 10 villages/hamlets. Participatory rural appraisal exercises had been carried out in 33 villages while the exercise was underway in about 61 villages for a micro plan preparation. The micro plan was to be implemented through a local level specialised eco-development institution specifically created for this purpose, Mr. Basuvaraju said.

According to the plan, villages abutting areas within 10 km from the core forest area are considered for buffer zone activities. Apart from the above 15,713 hectares, peripheral areas in Mannavanur and Poomparai ranges of Kodaikkanal division and Palani Range of Dindigul division have been brought under the buffer zone. The objective is to have management intervention in the buffer zones and sector integration for livelihood options. The Government has sanctioned Rs. 5 lakh under the ‘Project Tiger Scheme’ which has been distributed to villages under Amaravathi, Udumalpet and Valparai ranges.

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