Wildlife

The wildlife of India is a mix of species of diverse origins. The region's rich and diverse wildlife is preserved in numerous national parks and wildlife sanctuaries across the country.

Since India is home to a number of rare and threatened animal species, wildlife management in the country is essential to preserve these species. According to one study, India is home to about 60-70% of the world's biodiversity.

Ecological concerns:

Preserving Wildlife

Hunting, trapping of animals / birds and using dynamite to catch fish should not be allowed. Fishing should be allowed only after obtaining proper permits. All instances of poaching, dynamiting, illicit felling of trees and illegal forest activity should be reported to the forest / wild life authorities.

Waste Disposal

• Bury and burn biodegradable wastes i.e. egg shells, vegetable and fruit peels, paper etc. Non biodegradable waste i.e. plastic, batteries, aluminum foil packets, glass, tin, bottle caps etc. to be sensibly disposed off in the city garbage dumps or recycled where possible through the local kabadis.

• Human waste: Toilets should be at least 20 meters away from the river and no excreta/ waste should go into the river. Dry pit toilets should be lined with lime and covered when half full. Dry pit toilets should not be on the beach sand but on the forest soil since it has greater organic content required for microbial activity for faster decomposition of human feces.

• Bathing: Should be done at least 20 meters away from the river / streams and preferably above the high water mark. Encourage tourists not to wash off soap / shampoo directly into a river / stream.

Fuel for Cooking/Campfires

• Only cooking gas and kerosene oil to be used for cooking. No wood to be used.

• Have only small / symbolic campfires if you must. Do not collect driftwood from any place where the local community might use it for cooking. It is recommended to buy crate / waste wood from the forest department / authorized sale points in towns. Do not buy wood from the local villagers. Campfires must not be lit close to trees or forested areas and should be put-off at night after use and during windy conditions.

Minimum Impact on Local Culture

• Respect local customs and traditions specially while visiting local villages and religious places.

• Tourists should be modestly clad specially while crossing villages, towns and inhabited areas while driving to the put-in or driving back from the take out and beaches close to villages / towns on the river.

• Do not encourage begging by giving money, sweets etc to the locals. Just a polite `namaste' will do.

• Discourage loud behavior when visiting local villages/settlements. Kissing and public displays of affection should be avoided.

• Photographs should be taken only after seeking permission of the people concerned.