From forest collector to eco‑tourism leader: Mahili Bhuye’s journey

Mahili Bhuye’s transformation from daily forest collector to a leading figure in Debrigarh eco‑tourism illustrates the power of community‑driven change. Earlier, she would visit the woods for firewood, mahua, kendu leaves, bamboo shoots and other forest produce that sustained her family.

After linking up with Debrigarh Eco‑Tourism in 2023, she redirected her relationship with the forest toward livelihood generation through conservation. She played a pivotal role in establishing a ‘green village’ where every household now has a toilet, a dustbin, and is progressively eliminating plastic use. Her leadership also encouraged women’s participation, resulting in more than 60 women now active in wildlife protection, grass‑land management and eco‑tourism activities.