Meet Mr. Jagdish S Bakan, the Wildlife Warden and Director of the Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve in Tamil Nadu. With his visionary approach, he has implemented numerous projects aimed at motivating the community to actively protect and conserve their environment. His tireless efforts have resulted in the creation of plastic-free zones, green job opportunities, and the restoration of the marine ecosystem. Recently, his outstanding work was recognized by UNESCO, earning him the prestigious Dr.
Mitchel Batisse Award for Biosphere Reserve Management in 2023.
Promoting Sustainable Livelihood and Biodiversity Conservation:
Through a compelling case study titled ‘Development and sustainable livelihood and community-based biodiversity conservation and environment protection,’ Mr. Bakan’s efforts to address the primary threats to coastal biodiversity, such as habitat destruction, over-harvesting, and marine pollution, stood out. His work emphasized the importance of restoring the marine ecosystem, protecting marine mammals, and combating invasive species in coral and mangrove ecosystems. Community involvement played a crucial role, including raising awareness about biodiversity, engaging in plastic control initiatives, and creating alternative livelihood opportunities.
Empowering Communities and Creating Green Jobs:
In the Gulf of Mannar region, Mr. Bakan focused on generating green jobs that were environmentally friendly, reducing pressure on marine biodiversity. By organizing indigenous people into self-help groups and eco-development committees, he facilitated wildlife rescue and protection through community participation. Additionally, six community-based ecotourism projects and plastic check-posts were established. Over 2,550 self-help groups, comprising 36,000 members, collaborated closely with the trust Mr. Bakan leads. Notably, women self-help groups managed canteen facilities at ecotourism points, and the community received encouragement and rewards for wildlife rescue involvement. The community radio station, Kadal Osai FM, played a pivotal role in spreading eco-awareness.
Remarkable Impact on the Biosphere Reserve:
The project spearheaded by Mr. Bakan has made significant strides. It has generated an impressive 7,788 green jobs, benefiting 7,243 women. Microcredit worth ?26.4 crore has been provided, while 70 hectares of mangroves have been planted, 600 sqm of coral reefs and 1,000 sqm of seagrass have been transplanted, and 185 hectares of invasive plants have been removed from the land. Furthermore, 900 sqm of invasive species have been eradicated from the ocean, and 2.48 lakh native trees have been planted. The project has successfully prevented 36.8 tonnes of plastic from entering the ocean and has led to the detection of 109 wildlife crimes, resulting in the seizure of 12,000 kg of wildlife articles. Marine mammal rescue efforts have been fruitful, with 102 animals saved and released back into the sea. Additionally, 23,500 turtle hatchlings have been released through their hatchery program, and 70 hectares of degraded land have been restored through mangrove plantations.
Future Plans for Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve and Wildlife Division:
Mr. Bakan has outlined several initiatives to further enhance conservation efforts. These include establishing a marine elite force to improve patrolling, focusing on habitat restoration, and promoting community development through the Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve Trust. The implementation of sustainable community-based ecotourism, prevention of plastic pollution, and retrieval of ghost nets are among the upcoming plans. Given the Gulf of Mannar’s significance as a rich fishing ground, Mr. Bakan emphasizes the need for enhanced measures to prevent destructive fishing practices and encourages the adoption of sustainable fishing methods through the
implementation of safeguards and rules.
Mr. Jagdish S Bakan’s remarkable journey as the director of the Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve showcases his unwavering commitment to preserving marine ecosystems and empowering local communities. His efforts have earned international recognition and serve as an inspiration for sustainable conservation practices worldwide.
Also Read: Coral Reefs in Gulf of Kutch Restored: Biorock Technology Rejuvenates the ‘Shape of Water’
