Eco Development Committees (EDCs) operating in and around the Pilibhit Tiger Reserve are playing a transformative role in promoting eco-tourism, environmental conservation, and rural employment. Initiated by the Forest and Wildlife Department and financially backed by the Tiger Reserve Foundation, these committees are empowering local communities, especially the youth, by providing sustainable livelihood opportunities and fostering environmental stewardship.
Community-Led Growth Around the Reserve
Currently, eight EDCs are active in villages located within the buffer zones of the reserve, including Chuka (Selha), Barahi, and Chauka Kheda. These committees are involved in a wide range of activities—from managing tourist services like canteens and guided tours to conducting conservation awareness drives—thereby integrating community participation into forest management.
Each EDC receives annual financial support of ₹1 lakh from the Tiger Reserve Foundation. Leveraging this support, the committees have been able to generate a revenue of ₹6–10 lakh per year, which is reinvested into local development. The income has facilitated the construction of village roads, solar-powered streetlights, drinking water reservoirs, and other essential infrastructure, improving the overall quality of life for villagers.
Skill Development and Employment for Local Youth
One of the key achievements of the EDCs has been the training of local youth in areas such as hospitality, nature guiding, and eco-tourism services. These efforts have created sustainable job opportunities within their native communities, in line with Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s vision of promoting self-reliance and rural development.
Officials from the Forest and Wildlife Department have commended the initiative for embodying the spirit of inclusive and participatory conservation. “It’s not just about protecting forests and wildlife, but also about supporting and strengthening the communities that coexist with them,” noted a senior forest official.
Raising Environmental Awareness
The EDCs also run regular awareness programs to educate both locals and visitors about conservation, wildlife protection, and ecological balance. These initiatives have helped foster a sense of environmental responsibility and pride within the communities living near the reserve.
A Replicable Model for Other Regions
The Pilibhit model is now being hailed as a potential template for other Tiger Reserves and forest regions across Uttar Pradesh and India. The success of EDCs in blending conservation with socio-economic progress demonstrates how grassroots efforts can deliver long-term benefits for both people and nature.
About Pilibhit Tiger Reserve
Situated in Uttar Pradesh, the Pilibhit Tiger Reserve spans the districts of Pilibhit, Lakhimpur Kheri, and Bahraich. It is recognized for its rich biodiversity, including a significant population of Bengal tigers, and features dense sal forests, vast grasslands, and numerous wetlands, supporting a vibrant ecosystem.
As Pilibhit continues to evolve into a model for community-based conservation, its journey reflects the powerful synergy of local engagement, ecological preservation, and sustainable development.
