Khajuraho, a UNESCO world heritage site, is a vibrant locale where traditional and modern elements coexist. The town is known for its ornate wooden doors, colorful rangolis, and wall murals. Local residents like Rajabai Raikwad and Pari Khan contribute to the cultural tapestry, with Pari running a street food business. The oldest settlement, Purana Basti, features ancient figurines and Chiteri art. Despite the bustling atmosphere, the town retains its historical charm and cultural richness.

Khajuraho's tourism sector is experiencing a revival with increased involvement of women, thanks to initiatives by Adhar and the Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board. These initiatives aim to make the region a safe destination for female travelers and provide job opportunities for local women in various roles such as cooking, housekeeping, and front office management. Training programs, including self-defense and e-rickshaw operation, are part of the effort to empower women and ensure their safety. The program has trained 200 women in Khajuraho and seeks to train 800 across nearby tourist destinations. Challenges such as family opposition remain, but the program has successfully placed 120 women in hotel jobs. Additionally, Stargazing India is training residents in astronomy to promote night tourism. Local hotel owner Avinash Tiwari notes the city's reliance on tourism and the need to address issues like lake cleanliness and street vendor management.

The Dhigna art form, deeply embedded in the tribal culture of Madhya Pradesh, particularly in Patna and Chhattarpur districts, is slowly losing its sheen. The Quint explores this cultural heritage, highlighting its significance and the challenges it faces.

The Ken Gharial Sanctuary, located near the Ken river, is a critical habitat for the endangered gharial species. The sanctuary, part of the Panna Tiger Reserve, is home to a variety of wildlife including wild dogs, nilgai, and spotted deer. Conservation efforts have seen multiple releases of gharials into the river, although their numbers remain uncertain. The sanctuary is also noted for its unique volcanic rock formations and the Raneh waterfall. The Ken river, which flows through the sanctuary, is currently under scrutiny due to the Ken Betwa Interlinking Project and its potential ecological impact.

Mandana art, a traditional mural art form from Rajasthan, is facing decline due to modern influences and the shift from mud to concrete houses. Originally practiced by the Meena Adivasi community, it has spread to other communities and evolved over time. Efforts to preserve this art include outreach programs by social enterprises like Dhonk and individual artists experimenting with new mediums. The art form, which reflects a deep connection with nature, is at risk of disappearing, which would impact cultural heritage and tourism in India.

In Kashmir, a region marked by conflicts and job scarcity, a group of remarkable women from rural areas are using social media to showcase their talents and defy stereotypes. These women, including Mateena Rajput, Sayeda Hubza Ali, Farah Zaidee, Saba Shafi, and Zartasha Zainab, have become influential figures on platforms like Instagram and YouTube. They have faced and overcome significant challenges, including religious conservatism, patriarchal power structures, and initial skepticism. Their stories highlight the power of digital platforms in offering economic empowerment and self-expression, while also emphasizing the importance of responsible content creation.

In Budgam district of Jammu and Kashmir, a group of young women are breaking gender stereotypes by training to become coppersmiths. Supported by the government's Handicrafts and Handloom Department, the training center offers a two-year course, providing a stipend and a path to financial independence. Despite initial societal resistance, the women are learning to engrave designs on copper utensils, a craft that is both viable and dignified. Their families have come to support their aspirations, and the trainees plan to market their products widely, leveraging government schemes and social media.

Shibali Biswas, a 23-year-old aspiring independent filmmaker from Sijhoura village in Mandla district, Madhya Pradesh, has created a 17-minute film titled 'Frames' inspired by photographer Vicky Roy. Despite financial and logistical challenges, Shibali's film has garnered appreciation and is set to enter the festival circuit. Her journey, influenced by her activist father and Gond mother, includes significant educational milestones and a fellowship in environmental conservation. Shibali's ambitions extend to Hollywood, where she aims to share her vibrant cultural heritage with a global audience.

India's creative industries are empowering rural youth by providing new livelihood opportunities based on traditional knowledge and talents. The creative economy, which includes crafts, textiles, music, and more, accounts for a significant portion of employment in India. Success stories like ID Fresh Food's founder PC Mustafa illustrate the potential for rural entrepreneurship. Organizations like Rang De and Transform Rural India support rural artists and entrepreneurs with training, market access, and financial support. Digital platforms bridge the rural-urban divide, and government initiatives like 'Make in India' and 'Startup India' offer additional support. Despite challenges such as limited infrastructure and risk-averse attitudes, the creative industry holds promise for improving livelihoods and incomes in rural India.

Karan Armu, a local guide from Bamhni village, leads a nature trail in the buffer zone of Kanha Tiger Reserve, highlighting the area's rich biodiversity and cultural significance. Safari guides Dhanti Maravi and Ramkali Dhurwey, who have extensive experience in the reserve, share their knowledge of the forest and its flora and fauna. Despite initial challenges, they have established themselves as competent guides. The article underscores the economic opportunities for locals through tourism and the need for year-round employment solutions for safari guides.

The rare Pihiri mushrooms found in Chhattisgarh's Achanakmar Tiger Reserve are a vital source of income for local villagers who harvest them during the rainy season. The mushrooms, available in two varieties, are sold fresh or dried for storage. Villagers face challenges such as wildlife threats and mosquito bites while collecting these mushrooms. Traders from nearby cities purchase the mushrooms, which are enjoyed both locally and in urban areas.

Efforts to revive the Aravallis mountain range through reforestation have shown promising results, with the return of wildlife and lush greenery. The Rajasthan Forest Department, in collaboration with the police and local residents, has successfully tackled illegal mining activities and planted thousands of native tree species. Despite facing challenges from locals involved in illegal mining, the project has transformed the area, providing livelihood options through moonj grass and ensuring continuous monitoring by a forest protection committee.

The article discusses the environmental and social impacts of mining in Chhattisgarh, India, particularly in the Bastar region. It highlights the displacement of indigenous communities, the destruction of forests, and the exacerbation of Naxalite insurgency due to mining activities. The Forest Rights Act, intended to protect tribal interests, is often bypassed, leading to further marginalization. Activists argue that granting land titles under the Act could mitigate conflicts. Security camps established to protect mining operations are also a point of contention, causing fear and restricting the movement of local communities. The article underscores the complex interplay between resource extraction, environmental degradation, and social unrest.

The article discusses the rejuvenation of ponds in Haryana villages under Mission Amrit Sarovar, focusing on the transformation of the Hariahera village pond. The initiative, supported by organizations like GuruJal and the Haryana Pond and Waste Water Management Authority, aims to manage household wastewater, promote groundwater recharge, and enhance community spaces. Despite challenges like plastic waste and algae formation, the project has seen significant progress, with multiple ponds revived and maintained by local communities. The initiative is part of a broader effort to address water stress in Haryana, leveraging funds from CSR, crowdfunding, and government schemes like MGNREGA.

In the Sundarbans delta of West Bengal, a significant number of women and girls suffer from anaemia, leading to severe health issues such as headaches, fatigue, and low body weight. A survey revealed that 97% of women in the region are anaemic. Factors contributing to this include poor diet, poverty, and lack of healthcare infrastructure. Organizations like Care Sunderban are working to improve healthcare services, but challenges remain due to the region's remote location and economic conditions.

Paddy cultivation in Kerala has declined since the 1980s due to urbanization, leading to rice imports from neighboring states. Reviving Kaipad rice, a traditional variety grown in saline soils, is crucial for sustainable agriculture and meeting the state's needs. Kaipad rice tracts, primarily in Kannur, Kasargod, and Kozhikode, have decreased significantly due to climate change, irrigation schemes, and urban development. Efforts to revive Kaipad rice farming include the Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana Paddy Mission and the development of hybrid varieties by Kerala Agricultural University. Challenges include climatic fluctuations, lack of mechanization, profitability issues, and labor shortages. Increased subsidies and support for farmers are essential for the revival of Kaipad rice farming, which has both domestic and international demand.

In Bastar, Chhattisgarh, Bhiti Chitra, a traditional folk art form, has transitioned from being painted on household walls to paper and canvas. Khem Vaishnav, a renowned Bhiti Chitra painter, explains the cultural significance and intricate details of this art, which often depicts village life and rituals from the Jagar tradition. Despite its rich heritage, Vaishnav notes a decline in its practice among the younger generation. He emphasizes the importance of preserving this tradition, which has brought him recognition and inspired many students to continue the art form.

In the Alanpur forest nursery in Sawai Madhopur district and the forest department nursery in Alwar, Rajasthan, women are actively engaged in plantation activities during the Monsoon season. The women, working under the MGNREGA scheme, tend to thousands of saplings, performing tasks such as watering, sowing seeds, and preparing saplings. Despite the challenging conditions, the women find satisfaction in their work, which is crucial for the growth of the plants. The article highlights the significant role of women in these nurseries and their dedication to their work.

Gamewadi, a village in Maharashtra's Satara district, has transformed into a green haven through the collective efforts of its residents. Over 32,000 trees have been planted in the past eight years, earning the village the Chhattrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vanashree Award. The community has adopted sustainable practices, including using LPG instead of forest wood and implementing the MGNREGA's 'Bihar Pattern' scheme. The village aims to become a tourist destination, showcasing its commitment to environmental preservation and sustainable development.

In Angul Municipality of Odisha, the Sathi Parivar group has transformed over 4 quintals of plastic waste into more than 6,000 eco-bricks. These bricks, made from various plastic waste, are now utilized in local schools for bins, storage, and flower pots. The initiative has involved the community and plans to expand to household collections, marking a significant step in combating plastic pollution and reshaping the district's identity.

In Tikamgarh district of Madhya Pradesh, water conservation efforts are being made to address agricultural distress and prevent migration. Farmer Virendra Giri Goswami, among others, has constructed a farm pond to store rainwater for irrigation. The Manjari Foundation, in collaboration with MGNREGA, has been instrumental in creating water harvesting structures like farm ponds and check dams. These initiatives have helped recharge groundwater, provided irrigation, and reduced distress migration. However, issues such as delayed MGNREGA payments and non-judicious water use persist. The local government acknowledges the need for quality and community ownership in these projects.

In Bundelkhand, traditional architectural practices are employed to combat extreme summer heat, with houses painted in vivid colors like white, pink, blue, green, orange, and yellow. Conservation architect Rajlakshmi Dubey and non-profit worker Rajesh Ahirwar explain the use of passive cooling techniques, such as courtyards, limestone powder, and traditional colors, to maintain cooler indoor temperatures. Despite the shift towards modern materials like cement, many residents still use traditional methods involving mud and bricks. The article highlights the cultural significance and practical benefits of these architectural practices.

Rajbala Gujjar and her family, living in Haripura village within the Sariska Tiger Reserve, face daily challenges due to the presence of tigers. The Gujjars, a pastoral community, rely on livestock for their livelihood. Relocation efforts have been ongoing, with some families moving out in recent years. Wildlife historian Raza Kazmi highlights the complexities of displacement for conservation. Villagers like Rajesh Gujjar and Ramdan Gujjar express concerns about the lack of amenities and safety. Despite the hardships, some families remain, adapting to life within the reserve while others seek better opportunities elsewhere.

A Bengaluru student recounts his experiences during a fieldwork visit to Pondehasa village in Jharkhand. He learns about the customs, food, and daily practices of the Santhal tribe, including their mythology and language. The narrative highlights the community's strong work ethics, unique cultural beliefs, and the student's interactions with local children and adults. The story emphasizes the importance of cultural immersion and understanding in rural development work.

The Santal women of Bubeijoda village in Mayurbhanj, Odisha, continue the tradition of painting murals on their mud walls, a practice believed to appease their gods and ancestors. Despite challenges in sourcing natural pigments and a decline in interest among the younger generation, the village maintains this cultural heritage. The murals, painted annually around Diwali, feature geometric patterns and floral motifs, using natural pigments collected from nearby hills and forests.

Rural homestays in Madhya Pradesh, such as Mahua Hill View in Ladpura Khas, offer unique experiences like star gazing and vegetable harvesting, attracting both domestic and international travelers. These homestays, often run by women, provide safe and budget-friendly accommodations, boosting the local economy. Government support and NGO partnerships have been crucial in establishing these ventures. Women e-rickshaw drivers in Orchha further exemplify social inclusion and empowerment. The initiative has positively impacted 100 villages, creating confident and active local workforces.

Pani panchayats led by women have been established in several villages of Bundelkhand to combat water wastage and promote conservation. In Narayanpur village, the panchayat formed in February last year includes 15 members, seven of whom are women. These community groups, active in the dry regions of Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh, meet monthly to address water misuse issues.

Rajesh Srinivas, executive director at Sangama, discusses the organization's efforts to support the LGBTQIA+ community in India, particularly in Karnataka and Kerala. Initiatives include Namma clinics and centres providing health services and safe spaces, advocacy for decriminalizing homosexuality, and working with marginalized groups such as sex workers and the urban poor. Despite the 2018 Supreme Court judgment decriminalizing homosexuality, challenges persist in accessing housing, health, and jobs, with societal change being a slow process.

In Haryana, the Mission Amrit Sarovar initiative has led to the rejuvenation of village ponds, resolving wastewater issues and promoting groundwater recharge. The project, which began a year ago, has seen the transformation of cesspools into idyllic spots for local communities. Non-profit organization GuruJal has been instrumental in reviving 17 ponds in Gurugram district, with a focus on treating greywater and involving the community. Despite challenges such as algae formation and plastic waste, the initiative has made significant progress, with 1,518 ponds completed out of 7,691 identified sites in Haryana. The project aims to develop 50,000 ponds across India by August 15, 2023, as part of the Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav, celebrating 75 years of Independence.

Villagers in Kalakhowa, Assam, including Disku Payeng and Kalla Pegu, face the threat of displacement due to the Subansiri river's erosion and flooding, exacerbated by a dam construction. The Mising tribe, known for their flood-proof houses, has been severely affected, with many losing their land and becoming landless laborers. Despite protests, villagers have not received government compensation. Experts like Dr. Shukla Acharjee note the dam's impact on river sedimentation and morphology. The Brahmaputra and its tributaries have caused significant land loss over the past six decades, leaving the future of these communities uncertain.

The article highlights the diverse wildlife and natural beauty surrounding the temple town of Srivilliputtur in Tamil Nadu, emphasizing the importance of protecting these habitats. It features various species such as the Indian roller, egrets, Indian paradise-flycatcher, and grey langurs, among others. The piece also touches on environmental issues like plastic waste pollution, urging better waste management practices to preserve the ecosystem.

In Limbala village, Gujarat, the ration balancing programme (RBP) implemented by the National Dairy Development Board and Aga Khan Rural Support Programme India is improving milk production and reducing methane emissions by providing a balanced diet to livestock. The programme has led to a 23.9 percent reduction in methane emissions per day and an increase in milk yield, resulting in an average net gain of Rs 53.22 per day for livestock owners. Currently in the pilot phase, the plan is to enrol 500 animals by the end of 2023, with the potential to significantly reduce livestock methane emissions on a larger scale.

In North Karnataka, 17-year-old Keshav Vishnu Sutar, who has cerebral palsy, dreams of space and has achieved a remarkable 93.76% in his SSLC board exams. Inspired by Stephen Hawking and APJ Abdul Kalam, Keshav faces physical challenges but remains determined to succeed. His mother, Gayatri, and local government officer Shantha Biradar have been instrumental in supporting his education. Despite financial difficulties, the family prioritizes education, and Keshav has secured admission to a local college. The community, including his school, has been supportive, and there are ongoing efforts to secure medical and technological assistance for him.

In Srikakulam, Andhra Pradesh, a simple innovation called the 'double wheel marker' has transformed the labor-intensive process of sowing maize, reducing the physical strain on women laborers and increasing their wages by 33%. The device, designed by scientists and Dr Reddy’s Foundation and improvised by a local farmer, L Satyanarayana, allows for quicker sowing without ploughing the soil, a technique known as 'zero tillage.' This method not only increases crop yield but also saves on labor and time, potentially closing the wage gap between men and women. The foundation has expanded zero tillage to cover 50,000 acres in Srikakulam and provided 800 devices to lead farmers. Women laborers, who also manage household chores, hope for continued wage improvements as farmers save on machinery costs.

Sariska National Park in Rajasthan, home to 28 Royal Bengal tigers, employs local trackers like Mukesh Kumar Balai and Kaluram Gujar to monitor tiger movements. The park, which lost all its tigers by 2005 due to poaching, has seen a successful reintroduction program with the help of the National Tiger Conservation Authority and the Wildlife Institute of India. Local knowledge is harnessed for conservation, with villagers being offered jobs as trackers. The ICICI Foundation supports the project, and trackers are equipped with necessary gear. The article also touches on the challenges of human settlements within the park and the relocation of villages.

The article highlights lesser-known heritage sites in rural India, including Pathra in West Bengal, Unakoti in Tripura, Kavaledurga fort in Karnataka, Arikamedu in Puducherry, and the rock shelters of Bhimbhekta in Madhya Pradesh. It provides brief descriptions of each site's significance and beauty, such as Pathra's terracotta artwork, Unakoti's rock carvings, Kavaledurga's temples and palace remains, Arikamedu's archaeological findings of Roman and Greek artifacts, and Bhimbhekta's prehistoric rock art. The article also offers travel tips on how to reach these destinations.

Mahua, a nutrition-rich forest produce, is significant for tribal communities in Chhattisgarh. Families gather and store dried mahua to make a regional beverage. The collection process involves traditional methods and can be labor-intensive. The mahua trees, some over 20 years old, enhance the local landscape, and the flowers, likened to grapes, are collected, cleaned, and dried for storage. Controlled burning is sometimes used to distinguish mahua flowers, but this poses a risk of forest fires.

In Karget, Rajasthan, a community-driven forest conservation effort has successfully combated rampant tree felling. Local NGO Seva Mandir and Hanuman Van Vikas Samiti (HVVS) educated villagers on sustainable practices, leading to the formation of the Joint Forest Management Committee (JFMC) and the implementation of annual greening drives. Women play a significant role, planting saplings and participating in soil conservation work. The Udaipur North Forest Division has also supported the initiative with tree plantation drives. The villagers are now seeking community forest resource rights under the Forests Rights Act.

Feni, a traditional Goan alcoholic beverage made from cashew apples, holds significant cultural value in Goa but struggles to gain popularity abroad. Despite being labeled a 'heritage drink' and receiving a geographical indication tag, feni faces challenges such as prohibitive liquor laws and lack of standardization in distillation. Local efforts to promote feni include new concoctions and packaging, but the drink remains largely confined to Goa. Advocates like Goa legislator Deviya Rane push for export opportunities to prevent wastage of cashew apples and boost production. Traditional feni-makers continue to produce the drink for local consumption, emphasizing its cultural and medicinal uses.

Neha Singh discusses her journey into conservation through Forrest India, emphasizing that planting trees alone does not equate to forest restoration. She highlights the importance of understanding the original state of forests, the role of traditional ecological knowledge, and the need to consider local livelihoods in conservation strategies. Singh also explains the Miyawaki method for growing dense, native forests and stresses the necessity of involving grassroots communities in conservation efforts.

Efforts to restore the Aravallis, a mountain range spanning Delhi, Haryana, and Rajasthan, have shown promising results after the cessation of illegal mining activities. The Rajasthan Forest Department, in collaboration with the police and the Rajasthan Armed Constabulary, initiated a reforestation project in Kahrani village, Alwar district. Local residents were involved in planting 10,000 saplings of native tree species, transforming the area into a revived forest. Despite challenges from locals involved in illegal mining, the project has led to increased sightings of wildlife and improved greenery, indicating the success of the restoration efforts.

In Udaipur's Zawar mines area, self-help groups (SHGs) formed with the help of the Manjari Foundation and Hindustan Zinc's CSR programme are empowering Adivasi women to overcome patriarchal restrictions. Women like Indira Meena and Rameela Meena have formed SHGs, which focus on savings, small businesses, and social campaigns. These groups have helped women gain financial independence, tackle social issues like domestic violence and child marriage, and reduce dependence on their husbands. The SHGs have also been instrumental in changing attitudes towards traditional practices like veiling and have provided a platform for women to support each other in times of need.

Elephant reserves in India, numbering 33 across 14 states, primarily serve administrative purposes and lack the significance and investment of tiger reserves, despite elephants having the highest protection under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. Human-elephant conflicts are on the rise, with habitat encroachment by human activities. Innovative community measures like lemongrass and chilli cultivation, and bee-hive fencing, have been somewhat successful. Experts argue for the creation of suitable habitats and corridors for elephants, regulation of mining, and increased forest staff to manage conflicts. The Singhbhum Elephant Reserve, the first of its kind, is criticized for its size and lack of focus, with calls for a consolidated effort among states to address the issue.

Deepanwita Gita Niyogi has written a series of articles focusing on various environmental and agricultural issues in different regions of India. Topics include the prevention of erosion and the attraction of birds through plantation on a barren hillock in West Bengal, the use of solar power for irrigation in water-scarce Bastar, the impact of iron ore mining on deforestation in Chhattisgarh, and reforestation efforts in the Durg forest division. Other articles discuss water-saving sugarcane cultivation in Uttar Pradesh, plans for biofuel production from paddy in Chhattisgarh, bamboo forest regeneration, identification of wildlife corridors for conservation, the emergence of sustainable chocolates, protection of Chhattisgarh's state bird, revival of ponds in Bundelkhand for water security, the potential declaration of a new tiger reserve, the threat of bauxite mining to a wolf sanctuary, and the conservation of the world's largest mountain goat in Jammu and Kashmir. The articles also cover India's policy on millets and its direction.

The article discusses the efforts of wildlife officials in Chhattisgarh's Achanakmar Tiger Reserve to increase the population of tigers. It references a recent report by the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) which highlighted a significant decline in the number of tigers in Chhattisgarh, from 46 in 2014 to just 17. The article likely covers the strategies being implemented to track and protect the tigress population, the challenges faced by the conservation team, and the importance of tiger conservation for biodiversity. It may also touch upon the broader context of tiger populations in India and the effectiveness of conservation efforts nationally.

Sukhwara Bai, a resident of Achanakmar village inside the Achanakmar tiger reserve in Chhattisgarh, India, collects the Pihiri mushroom during the monsoon season. Despite the challenges of entering the jungle and dealing with insects, Bai finds the mushroom's taste to be worth the effort. The Pihiri mushroom is a seasonal delicacy enjoyed both fresh and dried in the sun across Achanakmar.