Tenkasi Launches ‘Golden Jackal Ambassadors’ Conservation Programme

Tenkasi Launches ‘Golden Jackal Ambassadors’ Conservation Initiative

Tenkasi district has introduced a new conservation initiative aimed at protecting the dwindling population of golden jackals , a species increasingly threatened by habitat destruction and expanding human settlements. With rampant construction and loss of natural vegetation near residential zones, several small wildlife species are facing sharp declines. To counter this trend, the Forest Department is set to train school and college students as ‘Golden Jackal Ambassadors’ , strengthening community-led conservation.

Declining Small Wildlife Populations

According to forest officials, golden jackals, along with animals such as mongooses, ant-eaters, snakes, monitor lizards and tortoises, have suffered significant habitat loss. Fragmented landscapes and low public awareness remain major factors behind these declines. The new initiative seeks to foster empathy and understanding among local communities about the importance of conserving lesser-known wildlife.

Role and Training of Golden Jackal Ambassadors

Under the programme, selected students will undergo structured orientation sessions on wildlife behaviour, conservation practices and rescue procedures. Once certified, they will work as awareness multipliers—spreading conservation messages, assisting in rescue operations and supporting rehabilitation of injured animals. The objective is to build a motivated youth network capable of driving long-term conservation action on the ground.

Learning from Previous Community-Based Efforts

Tenkasi’s earlier ‘Friends of Elephants’ initiative has shown that community participation can effectively reduce human–animal conflicts. By reporting elephant movement promptly and planting native vegetation, residents helped stabilise elephant activity in forested areas. This success has encouraged the district to expand similar models to protect smaller, often overlooked species.

Exam Oriented Facts

• Tenkasi is launching the ‘Golden Jackal Ambassadors’ scheme.

• Habitat loss from construction is a major reason for declining jackal populations.

• The initiative builds on the ‘Friends of Elephants’ programme.

• Several small species—mongooses, ant-eaters, snakes—are also affected by shrinking habitats.

This article is related to: wildlife conservation, Tamil Nadu environmental initiatives, community engagement, and current affairs for competitive exams.