A successful reforestation project in Pench Tiger Reserve, Maharashtra, is making a remarkable impact by generating 3000 workdays, with 70% of the workforce being women. Spearheaded by Grow-Trees.com, the project has already planted over 336,023 trees and aims to reach a target of 436,023 trees. The initiative has not only provided job opportunities for rural women, including Bebi Bai, a dedicated farmer from Karwahi, but also contributed to the restoration of the local forest ecosystem.
The project’s efforts extend beyond employment, as it creates a thriving environment for tigers and offers alternative livelihood options for the local tribal communities, who heavily depend on the forest-based industry. Additionally, the selected tree species play a role in improving ecological balance and providing medicinal resources for tribal communities.
Pradip Shah, co-founder, and Director of Grow-Trees.com, expressed their commitment to breaking the cycle of rural poverty through this initiative. The reforestation project is positively impacting conservation efforts in Pench Tiger Reserve while addressing the economic challenges the local communities face.
Since its inception in 2018, the project has continued alleviating rural unemployment and fostering sustainable livelihood solutions in Ramtek Taluka, Nagpur.