Assessing Wildlife Management Practices in Chandgad Tehasil: A Geographical Perspective

Abstract Forests and wildlife have central roles to play in the ecological balance of the earth, and their function is to preserve biodiversity, deliver ecosystem services, and promote environmental stability. Forest and wildlife conservation is not only vital in order to preserve species, but also in order to maintain the health of the environment. Wildlife conservation is a significant milestone towards the achievement of harmony between people's development and preservation of the environment. Due to its varied flora habitats and complex natural heritage, Chandgad Tehasil in Maharashtra's Kolhapur district is a compelling case study. It is a significant ecological hotspot due to the semi-evergreen forests of the region, varied landscape, and perfect climate, which offer the perfect setting for a variety of plants and animals to thrive. The study used interviews as primary data sources. Information on wildlife and human conflicted was gathered from January 2023 to December 2023. A total of 21 villages were visited. Heads of households were met in these villages to obtain first-hand information on whether there was wildlife encroachment, damage to livestock and crops. Secondary data was also obtained from the Forest Department, field staff, etc. The outcome revealed in spite of the ecological diversity, Chandgad is also facing many challenges like habitat destruction, deforestation, and rising human-wildlife conflict. All these are worsened by the forces of modernization, agricultural development, and urbanization. Geographical studies of wildlife management in Chandgad demonstrate the intricate interaction between human activities and the ecosystem of nature, necessitating sustainable intervention to ward off the increasing threats to diversity. Through application of spatial mapping technology, wildlife trend locations and conflict zones can be determined to provide more informed conservation measures. The Chandgad wildlife administration research further indicates the use of context-driven measures that consider the geographical, cultural, and environmental regional dynamics. By identifying the dominant ecological zones, wildlife corridors, and human-wildlife interaction areas, management approaches can become site-specific to resolve conflicts and preserve biodiversity. In short, Chandgad illustrates how intense, location-specific practices of wildlife management can help maintain natural areas along with ecological sustainability while balancing human needs of development.