Growing up near India’s wildlife, conservationist Krithi Karanth saw the disconnect between people and nature. As urbanisation and human expansion encroach on natural habitats, wildlife and people are fighting for territory. When animals cause destruction to crops, livestock, property, or human life, they are often killed in retaliation. To address human-wildlife conflict, Karanth created a hotline that is paving the way to peace.
“India is among those countries in the world where less than five percent of land is set aside for wildlife and wild places,” Karanth says. “It makes it even more imperative for us to come up with solutions that balance the needs of people and wildlife.” Wild Seve is a toll-free hotline for farmers around India’s Bandipur and Nagarahole National Parks. The number gives locals easy access to make claims for damage on their farms, and has helped reduce instances of human-wildlife conflict. By providing education and aid for those in rural communities, Karanth has shown people that it is possible to live harmoniously with wildlife.
“Since starting, I have seen communities try and work with us to figure out solutions that do not involve harming wildlife,” Karanth says. So far, she has helped over 7 000 families to receive compensation. Through Wild Seve, Karanth has grown understanding and empathy for wildlife. “My ultimate goal is to figure out simple, pragmatic ways in which people and wildlife can coexist,” she says.
