Forest Department initiative transforms lives of tribal youths in Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve

Forest Department empowers tribal youths in Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve, enhancing livelihoods through training and employment opportunities.

An initiative by the Forest Department has empowered 27 tribal youths from remote settlements in the Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve (STR) to increase their earning potential and secure sustainable livelihoods, significantly enhancing their families’ well-being.

The youths, aged between 18 and 25, are school dropouts, although a few had completed Class X. They faced numerous challenges, including limited job opportunities, lack of guidance, economic hardships and limited access to technology. Largely confined to their settlements, they often go for jobs such as that of daily-wage workers.

Under the second phase of the Tamil Nadu Biodiversity Conservation and Greening Project for Climate Change Response (TBGPCCR), 12 Eco Development Committees were formed in villages across the division. The Forest Department implemented livelihood improvement activities targeting the youth.

During the initiative, K. Sudhakar, Deputy Director of STR and District Forest Officer for the Hasanur Division, visited remote habitations such as Bangalow Dhoddi, K.K. Dhoddi, Balapadugai and Kottamalam accompanied by his team. The team observed that while the youth were mostly idle, they showed keen interest in driving. A driving school was roped in to offer training, which was funded through the project. In 2023, these youths successfully obtained their driving licenses.

A review conducted by the department a year later highlighted significant achievements. While 25 youths were employed as drivers of pickup trucks and other vehicles, one is working at a ration shop and another as an anti-poaching watcher. For many, this marks their first opportunity to earn a steady income. J. Karthick, 24, of Hasanur, who had completed Class 10, now regularly drives a vegetable-laden vehicle from Talavadi to the plains. “My income has improved now and my earnings are consistent,” he said. Many of these youths now work in Tiruppur and Coimbatore, while others transport vegetables to Kerala on a regular basis. Some have plans to purchase their own vehicles through loans from the Tamil Nadu Adi Dravidar Housing and Development Corporation (TAHDCO).

Mr. Sudhakar emphasised the crucial link between education, employment, and forest conservation. He told The Hindu that by reducing dependence on forest resources and integrating tribal communities into mainstream economic activities, the department aims to foster both community development and wildlife protection. “With proper guidance and support, we ignited these youths’ potential, giving them a clear path to a sustainable livelihood and brighter future,” he said.