The Bandipur and Nagarahole Tiger Reserves in Karnataka, India, are renowned not only for their conservation efforts and biodiversity but also for the significant role they play in supporting local communities and their livelihoods. For decades, safari services in these reserves have not only provided visitors with unforgettable experiences but have also been a cornerstone for local employment and economic activity. Unfortunately, the suspension of these services has had a ripple effect, negatively impacting the livelihoods of numerous local families as well as obstructing other eco-development activities that are crucial for the sustainability of these regions.

Local communities have historically depended on the tourism generated by safari visitors. From guides to accommodation providers, drivers, and local craftspeople, the economic ecosystem once flourished as a result of the tourism industry fueled by the reserves. Now, with safaris halted, these communities face an uncertain future.

Restoring safari services can serve as a catalyst in reviving the local economy. It can reinstate thousands of jobs and empower communities to once again invest in eco-friendly development activities. These activities may include conservation education programs, sustainable handicraft production, and community-led wildlife protection initiatives. By bringing back safari services, we also ensure that the tradition of environmental education pertaining to the significance of wildlife conservation is not only continued but enhanced.

Further, the controlled nature of safari operations, was in practice in both the reserves. We need to balance between conserving our majestic wildlife and sustaining local communities that have lived harmoniously with these ecosystems for generations.

I urge the authorities concerned to listen to the cries of these communities and to take immediate steps to resume safari services in Bandipur and Nagarahole Tiger Reserves. With your support, we can encourage action to help restore livelihoods, promote eco-development, and foster a sustainable and just relationship with nature. Please sign this petition to voice your support and make a difference in preserving both the legacy of these tiger reserves and the welfare of the hardworking families that depend on them.