A poacher-turned-forest protector baggage prestigious award

Sabu Varghese, often known as Kunjumon, contained in the Periyar Tiger Reserve (PTR).
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A poacher-turned-forest protector within the Periyar Tiger Reserve (PTR) in Thekkady has bagged the distinguished Cricketers for Wildlife Conservation Service Award.

Sabu Varghese, often known as Kunjumon, a member of the Ex-Vayana Bark Collectors Eco Improvement Committee (EDC) in Thekkady, acquired the award in recognition of his inspiring transformation. Kunjumon, as soon as concerned in smuggling Vayana bark (the bark of cinnamon bushes),has now devoted his life to conserving the very forest he as soon as exploited.

Sabu was a part of a gaggle that illegally harvested Vayana bark from the PTR and offered it in Tamil Nadu. “In 1996, Sabu, along with 23 other Vayana collectors, stopped such illegal practices and became associated with forest protection,” mentioned a Forest division official.

Livelihood points

The poaching gang used to earn a considerable revenue by smuggling forest produce akin to sandalwood. As soon as they renounced the illicit actions, the necessity to present them with sustainable livelihood arose. This led to the creation of Periyar Tiger Path, an ecotourism initiative that quickly grew to become a nationwide mannequin. The programme offered former poachers with a authentic revenue and introduced them social acceptance.

Sabu has been instrumental in main anti-poaching efforts within the PTR. He was a member of the Cheetah Squad, which apprehended sandalwood smugglers from Tamil Nadu. His efforts additionally prolonged to serving to smugglers reintegrate into society by way of the ‘Vidiyal’ ecotourism programme, offering livelihoods for 17 former smugglers.

Advantages abound

Reflecting on his previous, Sabu mentioned, “Joining the EDC changed everything. We gained social acceptance, and it transformed the lives of my children too, who are now receiving a better education and opportunities.”

Sabu was introduced the Wildlife Service Award on the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on Saturday. Former Indian cricketer Gundappa Vishwanath introduced him with the award, which included a money prize of ₹1 lakh and a memento.

The award, established by Cricketers for Wildlife Conservation, goals at recognising the unsung heroes of forest conservation. The initiative was conceptualised by former Indian cricketers Sandeep Patil, Yusuf Pathan, and Harbhajan Singh to inspire the foot troopers defending India’s forests.