Joys and Challenges of Working in the Forests

By Dr DEBOJYOTI RAHA and Dr. Parvaiz Ahmad Lone

From childhood favourites to career inspirations, my journey into the forests has been deeply influenced by literature and such personal experiences. While growing up, Bibhutibhushan Bandopadhyay's 'Aryanak' held a special place in my heart as it intricately depicted the natural world and the lives of the individuals intertwined within it. This initial encounter highlighted the enduring connection humanity has shared with nature over time. Subsequently, my discovery of ‘Silent Spring’ in my college library marked a significant turning point. This seminal work reshaped my views on the pressing climate crisis, compelling me to redirect my professional focus towards addressing environmental issues.

Back in 2016, Dr Parvaiz and I embarked on our first fieldwork together, in the sacred groves of Madhya Pradesh, as a part of our doctoral research, marking our first-hand exposure to the ancient practices of conservation and sustainable living. These groves, esteemed for their abundant biodiversity and cultural importance, are essential for upholding ecological equilibrium. The profound connection between cultural heritage and environmental preservation stood out prominently, as reflected in the intertwining of local religious beliefs with a deep reverence for nature, thereby nurturing conservation endeavours.

Neither urban perspectives nor academic research fully capture the true resilience of forests as effectively as the authentic practices of forest dwellers as their actions reflect the essence of sustainability. This period has provided profound insights into the critical disparity between extraction and exploitation. The eradication of Sterculia urens (Kullu/ Indian Ghost Tree) and the over-exploitation of Curculigo orchoides (Kali musli) and Boswellia serrata (Indian frankincense) by overly ambitious locals not only devastated the local ecosystems but also triggered the spread of invasive species followed by the eradication of native ground vegetation. These actions highlight the urgency ?for responsible and balanced approaches to the usage of resources while ensuring the preservation of biodiversity and ecological integrity.

Although, I was already captivated by the experience of living in the woods, it got deepened as I continued to work across these diverse ecosystems. From small patches to vast expanses of arid forest lands, Madhya Pradesh, as a state, is enveloped in enigmas, offering distinctive challenges and rewards. During these expeditions, I had a profound encounter with the wilderness as I observed a tiger in its natural habitat, moving gracefully and undisturbed in its environment.

Working across the diverse forest ecosystem fascinates me, as it offers the opportunity to explore the myriad of living creatures and their evolution over the time, adapting to nature for their survival. Their behaviours, shaped in response to environmental changes, deserve our close attention. For instance, the northward shift of vegetation in Uttarakhand, where apple plantations are thriving in new areas, or the frequent pathogenic attacks on NTFP species in Madhya Pradesh, such as Cercospora targeting Tendu leaves. Global perspectives shed light on the extinction of the Dodo, a significant event that led to the co-extinction of numerous plant species reliant on it, highlighting the complex interdependence within ecological systems.

On the contrary, we also see incredible adaptations in nature, such as the seed dispersal mechanisms of Pinus, the intricate pollination processes of epiphytes like orchids, the insect-trapping strategies of Nepenthes khasiana (the Pitcher Plant), and the development of pneumatophores in coastal areas to combat physiological water stress.

From my experiences within the realm of conservation, I have gleaned that it resembles a see-saw, where each element must maintain equilibrium for the entire system to operate effectively.

During our doctoral research, Dr Parvaiz and I explored some of the major national parks and wildlife sanctuaries in Madhya Pradesh, including Panna, Satpura, and Bandhavgarh. These explorations, were across one of the largest states in the country, enriched our understanding of various forest types and the delicate interplay of species within these habitats.

The transition to Iora Ecological Solutions alongside Dr Parvaiz marked a significant shift into uncharted territory, presenting fresh challenges that extended beyond the realms of academia. This transformation propelled us into guiding field teams across the Central Deccan Plateau in Telangana, characterized by its semi-arid conditions and a predominantly hot, dry climate, featuring a dry deciduous forest ecoregion.

Imagine navigating through formidable terrains, braving scorching heat, and embracing the rich tapestry of cultural diversity. This experience was not just challenging; it was exhilarating, opening our eyes to the wonders of the natural world in ways we had never imagined. We noticed species such as Sterculia urens which is a rapidly declining species in other states, but thriving beautifully in that region. One of the most intriguing parts of the work was encountering some of the prominent tribes of Telangana, particularly the ‘Gutti Koya tribe’- originally from Chhattisgarh had migrated to Telangana. The tribal community, contrary to expectations, posed a significant threat to the environment instead of preserving it, presenting a challenge for the state's forest department.

Navigating challenging terrain, including landscapes, cultural differences, language barriers, and time constraints, was demanding. Despite difficulties, perseverance led to completing the project ahead of schedule.

Recently, under the MegCare project in Meghalaya, we were fortunate to visit the ‘Mawphlang Sacred Groves’, one of the most famous and researched sacred groves in India. This grove is home to several Critically Endangered, Endangered, and Vulnerable species of flora and fauna. We were impressed by the unwavering dedication and commitment of local communities towards the conservation and reverence of nature, surpassing any governmental body. The primary obstacle we encountered was the challenging terrain of the Garo Hills region, with its valleys and thickets making vehicular travel hazardous. Our team often had to trek over 25 kilometres across rugged terrain to reach our destination. This expedition also introduced us to a matriarchal society where pivotal decisions were made by Nokmas, the village leaders, predominantly women.

By overcoming linguistic barriers, trust issues, and prolonged interactions with local farmers, the project objectives were effectively communicated, leading to active farmer involvement after persistent efforts. Each obstacle we overcome, strengthens our resolve and deepens our appreciation for the resilience of nature.

Amidst these challenges, the explorer in us wouldn’t let us miss the chance to visit Siju caves near the Napak Lake and Simsang River game reserve. These limestone caves, famous for their stalagmites and stalactites, are home to tens of thousands of bats and are considered the best-researched caves in the Indian subcontinent by bio-speleologists. It was akin to entering a different realm, a splendid natural marvel replete with enduring beauty.

The preserved natural beauty of Meghalaya, shielded by its relative isolation from mainstream tourism, as the local guides mentioned, was evident as we explored various sites, including the Nokrek Biosphere Reserve. Nestled in the hills and surrounded by lush tea and coffee plantations, the reserve is a sanctuary for wildlife, including the rare Hoolock Gibbons.

Whether in Madhya Pradesh's sacred groves or Meghalaya's remote caves, each expedition has deepened my reverence for our planet's natural wonders and reinforced the urgency of collective action in safeguarding our environment for future generations. Working in forest conservation is not just a profession; it is a privilege—a journey of discovery, resilience, and profound connection with the natural world. It is a call to embrace our role as stewards of Earth's precious resources and to champion policies and practices that prioritise sustainability and biodiversity conservation. In a world where the pressures of development often overshadow environmental concerns, it is our actions today will shape the landscapes of tomorrow.

And let’s not forget the quirks and unique experiences that come with this work! There have been moments of sheer adventure, like having liquid lunches of Tang and eating kaal megh to stave off our hunger in the field. We have encountered prolonged periods of silence lasting up to ten days, endured meals devoid of vegetables, and even resorted to hand butchering chicken. Notwithstanding these obstacles, our enthusiasm remains undiminished whenever we uncover a new species. Each small triumph, every fresh discovery, and each instance of profound revelation validates our endeavors. Here’s to continuing this incredible journey with passion, embracing every twist and turn, and celebrating the profound beauty of the natural world.