In a groundbreaking move for both wildlife conservation and women empowerment, four tribal women from villages surrounding the Palamu Tiger Reserve (PTR) have shattered traditional barriers by becoming the reserve's first female tourist guides. This pioneering initiative marks a significant shift toward community-led conservation while creating sustainable livelihood opportunities for tribal communities.
Trailblazing Women Enter Male-Dominated Field
Sonam Kumari, Parinita Kumari, Rani Kumari, and Rekha Kumari, all residents of Kechki village near PTR, have joined the formal workforce alongside their male counterparts for the first time. The women were officially inducted by PTR authorities in October this year to work with the newly launched jungle safari at Betla National Park.
While men have traditionally dominated the guiding profession at the park, this inclusion of women has opened up new career pathways and possibilities for tribal women in the region. The four guides expressed that their new roles have not only provided them with financial independence but have also significantly boosted their confidence and self-esteem.
Transforming Lives Through Education and Employment
Sonam Kumari, an undergraduate student at Janta Shivratri College in Palamu, shared how working as a guide has deepened her connection with the tiger reserve. "Since joining as a guide, I've even picked up Bengali and some English, as most of the tourists here come from West Bengal," she revealed. "Every day, before heading to college, I handle two to three tourist trips. It's helping me support my education while also allowing me to learn new skills."
Another guide, Rani, explained how forest officials trained them to identify various flora and fauna species and understand their distribution across the reserve. "I am very happy working as a guide, and my family members feel the same. Now, I can financially contribute to my family," she said with pride.
Hunar Se Rozgaar: Building Skills for the Future
According to PTR (north) deputy director P K Jena, the tribal women received their training under the "Hunar Se Rozgaar" program launched by park authorities in November last year. This initiative aims to enhance skills and expand employment opportunities for local communities.
"Since then, around 250 youths in eight groups have been trained as electricians, computer operators, light motor vehicle drivers and various other trades according to their interests and preferences," Jena explained. "Many of them are currently working as skilled professionals both in local organisations and outside the district."
The official emphasized that a detailed survey was conducted in the villages before implementing the initiative to ensure it addressed actual community needs and aspirations.
Ambitious Expansion Plans
Looking ahead, PTR authorities have set an ambitious target to train and provide employment opportunities to approximately 2,500 village youths over the next three years. To support this goal, two training centers are currently under construction in the vicinity of the tiger reserve.
This comprehensive approach not only benefits local communities but also strengthens conservation efforts by involving those who live closest to the protected area in its protection and promotion. The success of these four tribal women guides represents a powerful step toward sustainable development that balances ecological preservation with human welfare.
