Stretching across the Rajaji Tiger Reserve lies the Rajaji Raghati Biosphere (RRB), a 35-acre private forest initiative led by ecologist Vijay Dhasmana and environmentalist Jai Dhar Gupta. The primary objective is to restore the natural habitat, promoting co-existence with the environment.

　　Dhasmana, renowned for restoring the Aravalli landscapes, emphasises active rewilding efforts in this endeavour. The focus of this agricultural land extends beyond combating climate change to establish a harmonious model of cohabitation. Their objectives encompass forest cultivation, protection, restoration of indigenous flora, ecological succession monitoring, climate research, and the establishment of carbon sinks. Furthermore, the initiative aims to create a native forest and a limited number of sustainable residences, exemplifying a symbiotic relationship between humans and nature.

　　In the initial phase of rewilding the land, selected shrubs, trees, grasses and climbers have been planted to establish a desired forest community on the largely barren terrain. “We would also encourage rootstocks of native vegetation to establish, especially at the edges of the property," said Dhasmana, "once the plantation is established, we must be mindful of the tropical interaction and manage competition-colonisation trade-offs." Speaking further about the exotic invasives, he iterated that they will be weeded out from the land allowing "the late succession of native species of trees, shrubs, and grasses to establish themselves." Dhasmana explained that the "final result will be a mosaic of forest communities within the land with self-establishment and self-nurturing ability, as found in the adjoining forest patch of Rajaji Tiger Reserve.”

　　On an exclusive visit to this ecologically sensitive site, which will take another two years to come into final shape, we spoke with Gupta, who took us through the expansive land, familiarised us with the core and buffer areas and shared insights on their vision for this green initiative.

　　Excerpts from the interview:

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　　The Information

　　Address: Khasra 316, Baddiwala, Buggawala, Uttarakhand 247662

　　Getting There: The biosphere is about a 4-hour drive away from Delhi. After reaching the main village, it will take you another 10 minutes to reach the private forest. Please note that cars cannot move beyond the village because of its narrow lanes, so inform your hosts beforehand to arrange a more convenient transportation.