Revitalising Forest Ecosystems and Communities in Satpura

Strengthening biodiversity conservation and livelihoods in Satpura’s landscape

15,600+ Ha

Habitat Development

140+

Water Bodies Rejuvenated

19 Crore Litres

Water Recharge Potential

65 kW

Off Grid Solar

Introduction

Satpura Tiger Reserve, one of India’s most ecologically rich forest landscapes, is home to diverse flora and fauna, including rare and endangered species. As a designated biosphere reserve, it plays a critical role in sustaining biodiversity and maintaining ecological balance across the region.

Over time, however, increasing human dependency on forest resources, habitat degradation, and human-wildlife conflict began to place pressure on this fragile ecosystem. The relocation of forest-dwelling communities to peripheral areas was an important step towards conservation, but it also brought new challenges, both in restoring ecological balance within the forest and in supporting communities as they transitioned to new livelihoods. Strengthening this interconnected landscape required a holistic approach that addressed conservation and community needs together.

Our Intervention

Our approach focuses on strengthening forest ecosystems while enabling sustainable livelihoods for surrounding communities. In collaboration with Satpura Tiger Reserve and the Madhya Pradesh Tiger Foundation, we have implemented integrated interventions across habitat restoration, water conservation, wildlife protection and community development.

These efforts include large-scale habitat restoration through grassland development and invasive species removal, along with watershed interventions such as pond creation, deepening, and gravity-based water systems to ensure year-round water availability. We have also supported wildlife conservation through infrastructure such as a dedicated enclosure for barasingha (swamp deer), along with rescue and patrolling vehicles to strengthen forest monitoring. Complementing this, we have enabled livelihood opportunities for local communities through skill development, agricultural support, and value chain interventions, creating a balanced approach that supports both ecological sustainability and community resilience.

Impact

Our interventions have strengthened the Satpura landscape through large-scale habitat restoration across 15,603 hectares and the creation and rejuvenation of over 140 water bodies, adding a storage potential of over 19 crore litres.

Support through 3 rescue and patrolling vehicles, along with 65 kW off-grid solar capacity and 27 solar pumps, has enhanced forest management and sustainable resource use. Conservation efforts have also led to an increase in barasingha population from 16 to 80 in the forest. Overall, the initiative has benefited over 10,000 people, demonstrating the impact of integrated conservation and livelihood support.