How individual efforts at conservation in the Konkan could pave the way to policy decisions

Ratnagiri has almost 900 sacred groves that used to be thick with old trees and endemic species of birds and animals.

The Konkan is a lush green pocket of Maharashtra; a haven for nature lovers and travellers who seek respite from the heat and dust of city life. Prateik More feels fortunate to have grown up in Ratnagiri. He used to wander among the plateau and forests watching birds and taking photographs.

More gradually, became aware of an impending calamity, the first trigger being the changing nature of the sacred groves – forest patches that are tied to local faith, customs and lifestyle – where the “biodiversity had reduced”.