AKHAND SHIKAR CHECKED
"Communal hunt in Simlipal TR checked"
To stop the traditional Akhand Shikar or communal hunt in and around Simlipal Tiger Reserve in Orissa, involving slaughter of countless prey species of the tiger and setting fire to the forest, TCP in collaboration with the Nature and Wildlife Conservation Society of Orissa, is attempting to wean away the tribals from this very destructive hunt.
The hunt most frequently occurs in the "slack" season when there are no agricultural operations nor other forms of employment. Leaders amongst them have, therefore, been employed as fire watchers under this scheme till the onset of the rains, when danger from this form of hunting will end. Tribals are also being encouraged to participate in archery and tribal dance competitions as alternatives. The TCP took the initiative for this novel programme this year. The Forest Department has successfully intercepted many incursions into the reserve. It reports that the Akhand Shikhar has been stopped and the alternatives provided under the programme are proving helpful.