Capacity Building & Avifauna Conservation Training
Katghora Forest Division, Chhattisgarh
Project Overview
The Centre for Sustainable Green Energy (CSGE), Noida conducted a three-day (5th -7th May 2025) Capacity Building and Sensitization Programme for frontline forest personnel and community stakeholders in the Katghora Forest Division, Chhattisgarh. The initiative focused on strengthening conservation awareness, enhancing field-level competencies, and promoting sustainable forest management practices.
The programme engaged Forest Guards, Foresters, and members of the Joint Forest Management (JFM) Committees across Kendai and Aitmanagar Ranges.
Aim
To strengthen field-level conservation capacity and promote sustainable forest and biodiversity management through structured training, legal awareness, and practical ecological learning.
Objectives
Enhance understanding of forest ecology, wildlife conservation, and biodiversity protection.
Build awareness of key environmental legislations including:
Forest Conservation Act
Forest Rights Act (FRA) 2006
Biological Diversity Act 2002
Strengthen skills in human–wildlife conflict management and integrated wildlife management planning.
Promote sustainable use of forest resources and minor forest produce.
Develop technical knowledge in avifauna (bird) conservation, identification, and habitat management.
Improve community engagement strategies for long-term conservation outcomes.
Enable better review and implementation of FRA-related documentation at field level.
Key Components of the Training
- Education & Awareness Programme – Kendai Range
Focused on foundational conservation knowledge, policy frameworks, and sustainable forest governance.
2. Specialized Avifauna Conservation Training – Aitmanagar Range
Dedicated module on bird conservation in Korba Division, including:
Bird identification techniques
Habitat restoration and threat assessment
Ecological importance of birds
Ramsar Sites and wetland relevance
Community participation in biodiversity protection
Practical birdwatching field visit for experiential learning
Training materials were developed in booklet format and translated into Hindi to ensure accessibility and contextual understanding.
Methodology
The programme combined:
- Classroom sessions
- Case studies
- Group discussions
- Field-based practical exposure
- On-ground birdwatching exercises
This blended approach ensured both conceptual clarity and field applicability.
Outcomes & Impact
- Enhanced knowledge of forest and biodiversity legislation among field staff.
- Improved capacity for avifauna identification and habitat conservation measures.
- Strengthened skills in human–wildlife conflict mitigation.
- Increased ability to engage and mobilize local communities.
- Greater institutional readiness to implement FRA provisions effectively.
Overall, the initiative fostered a proactive, informed, and sustainable conservation approach within the Katghora Forest Division, contributing to long-term ecological resilience and biodiversity protection.
