Environment
Ashwamedh is involved into giving back to the environment and promote sustainable practices. Our efforts encompass a wide range of environmental concerns, from biodiversity conservation to plastic mitigation. We try to evolve according to the changing needs of the environment as well as society. In that case individuals and organizations are always welcome to not only amplify our efforts but also bring fresh ideas and perspectives. Correspondingly, database compilation and analysis lead us to a more effective response to environmental challenges.
Seed Collection and Indigenous Plant Conservation (Vanyabeej Sankalan) –
This initiative is crucial for preserving native plant species and maintaining ecosystem balance. Nowadays, it is being more and more difficult to get the seeds and saplings of indigenous plants. Hence, under this project for past few years, we are collecting seeds and preparing saplings of indigenous plants. We consider expanding the scope to educate local communities about the importance of native plants and involve them in seed collection and cultivation. These seeds, saplings are further handed over to Forest Department, farmers and environment enthusiasts also.
Tree Plantation -
According to the policy of Maharashtra State Government for a long-term tree care and maintenance plan, TRAI party agreements are done. In these projects, a corporate for funding, an NGO for actual site work, and the Forest Department for surveillance ensure the survival and growth of planted trees on barren forest lands. Ashwamedh is enthusiastically working on such projects since last 2 years in Ambernath.
Jungle Trail Activities -
An introduction to the world outside concrete jungles. These activities help reconnect people with nature, raising awareness about the importance of wilderness and biodiversity. To enhance their impact, we tend to provide educational components during these outings, highlighting the significance of conservation. (Bird watching, trekking, hiking, cycling, kayaking)
‘Prakruti’: Treatment & Transit Centre –
‘Prakruti’ is a small endeavour started with the collaboration of RAWW under the guidance of Forest Department. This initiative is vital for rehabilitating injured or rescued wildlife. After the rescue operations of wild birds and animals, they are treated by veterinary professionals and taken care of till release.
Controlling forest fires -
Strengthening our forest by fire prevention and control measures especially during dry seasons. Ashwamedh organizes some events in collaboration with Forest Department to draw fire line (creating a gap in vegetation that acts as a barrier to slow or stop the spread of wildfire). We also aware surrounding villages and tribal hamlets about the ill-effects of forest fires. In case of fire, our volunteers work hard to control those.
Human-Animal Conflict Awareness Campaigns –
In association with forest department, we conduct many awareness campaigns to educate communities about how to coexist peacefully with wildlife. In 2021, a collared leopard (who was under surveillance) has killed some cattle. Since he was being observed by Forest Department and wildlife experts, Ashwamedh Pratishthan took initiative in creating awareness among locals about this project and compensated to the affected peasants to some extent.
The growth of urbanization is breaking the ancient jungle corridors of migrating animals. Hence, they are unable to find shelter and loose their life while moving. Also, while building huge network of roads, wild animals are never considered and no overpass or underpass are reserved for their movements. Ultimately, hundreds of small and big animals are killed on highways. Ashwamedh is trying to collect this data through ‘Fark Abhiyan’ due to which we will be able to persuade the concerned authorities for both, preserve the corridors and create overpasses-underpasses.
Plastic Recycling and Pollution Mitigation -
Plastic pollution is probably the biggest threat for environment. Till now this problem was limited to the cities and suburbs; which is now rapidly mushrooming in and around rural areas. Its very sad to see the green jungles, foothills being filled by wrappers, bottles and other such litters.
Ashwamedh has been undertaking some clean-up drives in surrounding areas since last few years but we realise it is not enough. It is essential to eradicate this problem completely, then only we will be able give a ray of hope to our future generations. Hence a comprehensive project is the need of time. To identify the problem of plastic pollution we are taking initiatives, focusing more on verticals such as types of plastic waste, plastic generated at various levels, alternatives and recycling. A database compilation is in progress in collaboration with government agencies, private organisations and also enthusiast individuals. We are looking for people/organisations who are willing to work with us on this subject.