Archive · 12 Nov 2025
Pardhi Tribe Shifts from Hunting to Conservation in Madhya Pradesh
Imagine a community that used to be very good at hunting tigers and other animals in the forest.
They had special whistles and knew how to find animals easily.
But then, there weren't many tigers left, and they realized this was a big problem.
So, they decided to use their amazing skills to help protect the animals instead of hunting them.
Now, they help tourists see the animals safely and teach them about the forest.
It's like they went from being hunters to being special forest guardians, helping bring the tigers back and making sure they are safe.
The Pardhi community in Madhya Pradesh, historically known for hunting, has transformed into conservationists.
Their transition was spurred by the severe decline and eventual absence of tigers in Panna National Park by 2009.
The community uses its traditional knowledge of the wild and animal behavior to aid conservation efforts.
They are now involved in eco-tourism, guiding visitors and protecting wildlife.
The Panna Tiger Reintroduction Programme, launched after the tiger absence, has seen success with the community's involvement.
- Who
- The Pardhi community in Madhya Pradesh
- What
- Transitioned from hunting to conservation efforts, now protecting wildlife and aiding eco-tourism.
- When
- The transition accelerated after the Panna National Park lost its tiger population by 2009, with successful reintroduction efforts beginning in 2010.
- Where
- Panna National Park, Madhya Pradesh, India
- Why
- To address the decline in wildlife populations, particularly tigers, and to find sustainable livelihoods through conservation and eco-tourism.
- Location
- Panna, Madhya Pradesh
- Community
- Pardhi Tribe
- Original Occupation
- Hunting (tigers, leopards, etc.)
- New Role
- Conservationists, Eco-tourism guides
- Key Event
- Panna National Park losing all tigers by 2009
- Conservation Initiative
- Panna Tiger Reintroduction Programme