Bandipur Tiger Reserve, a biodiversity hotspot in southern India, is under threat from an aggressive invader—Lantana camara, an ornamental plant-turned-ecological menace. Spanning over 1,036 sq. km and surrounded by 136 villages, Bandipur faces a daily battle against this invasive weed, which chokes native plants and disrupts fragile forest ecosystems.

But out of this challenge emerges a story of resilience, innovation, and hope.

In a groundbreaking initiative, the forest department has joined hands with local tribal communities, forming 44 eco-development committees, to remove Lantana and restore the forest. And the mission goes beyond conservation. What was once seen as useless waste is now being transformed into wealth. Through women-led self-help groups, Lantana is repurposed into beautiful, handcrafted furniture and utility items—chairs, cots, baskets, and more.

Backed by training, stipends, and food support, tribal women are learning new skills and building sustainable incomes, healing the forest while uplifting their communities.

🌿 When people thrive, the forest does too.
🪑 From invasive pest to artisan product—this is the full-circle journey of Lantana in Bandipur.