Once poachers now guards

A forest guard sets out on his nightly patrol in the Periyar Tiger Reserve (ptr) in Kerala's Idukki district with the most unlikely companion: a former smuggler of vayana, the bark of the cinnamon tree. The two appear to get along well especially that now both are on the same side of the law. After a while, the ex-poacher suddenly stops and motions to his senior colleague. They can hear the almost inaudible thud of an axe.

OFFICIALLY BANKRUPT

One stove, one pot What eco-development means to people in Nagarhole

Battle zone: Humans vs elephants

Ecotourism: Scrambling for paradise

Seeking nirvana Rich, restless and willing to pay

High hopes

Tucked away between the Indian state of Sikkim on the east and the high mountains of the Makalu Barun range in the west, the Kanchenjunga area shares its northern boundary with that of Tibet. Hinduism and Buddhism, tropical and alpine, all meet and merge giving rise to a rich biodiversity and a variety of cultures of numerous ethnic groups and communities. This is an ancient land that cradles an ancient cultural heritage.

Bridging the gap

High Altitude Dilemma

On the road to destiny The tradition-bound Himalayan kingdom readies itself to brace modernism

BOW BEFORE THE ORCHIDS

many writers have tried to convey the essence, appeal and worth of orchids. But most have been unsuccessful in their endeavour. Three years ago, I went to the Kew Orchids Festival in London to find out more about them. I have known orchid enthusiasts in the past and have wondered whether there was any medical treatment for their addiction.

MUTUALLY ASSURED DESTRUCTION

Wooing back the salmon

In a country like the us , laws once framed are supposed to be implemented. An excellent example is the Endangered Species Act ( esa ). Adopted in 1973, the law was framed with the sole intention of saving species on the brink of extinction -- saving them at all costs.