Haryana’s New Community Reserve Safeguards 34 Rare Bird Species, Enhances State’s Wildlife Conservation Legacy
In a landmark step towards biodiversity conservation, the Haryana government has declared a 27-acre forest near Kalwan village in Jind district as a community reserve, ensuring protection of its ecosystem and safeguarding it as a crucial pitstop for migratory birds. Named ‘Devbhoomi Kalwan Migratory Birds Community Reserve’, this newly designated protected area restricts activities such as tree felling, construction, or any land-use changes that could endanger wildlife or habitats. The move highlights the government’s recognition of the vital role local communities play in conservation.
Every winter, the Kalwan forest becomes home to 34 species of migratory birds, including 21 species from outside India and 12 from within the country. Among these are endangered species like the common pochard and the black-tailed godwit, making the reserve a haven for avian diversity. The declaration was formalized through a notification issued on March 18 by Anand Mohan Sharan, Additional Chief Secretary (Environment, Forests and Wildlife), under Section 36 of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. With this notification, the reserve enjoys the same level of legal protection as forests governed by the Forest (Conservation) Act, ensuring strict regulation of any activity that may pose a threat to its ecological balance.
Sixth Community Reserve in Haryana ‘Devbhoomi Kalwan’ becomes the sixth community reserve in Haryana. The state government has been steadily increasing its network of protected community-led conservation areas. Only last month, two more reserves were declared — one covering 144 acres in Chaudhariwali village of Hisar, and another spanning 68 acres in Kajalheri village of Bhiwani. In addition, three other reserves already exist in Fatehabad district. With each new declaration, Haryana is reinforcing its commitment to creating safe spaces for biodiversity, particularly for species that migrate across continents and depend on seasonal habitats.
Community-Led Conservation Efforts What makes the Kalwan reserve unique is the active role of local villagers in protecting and conserving the forest. Last year, the villagers organized a biodiversity programme where they highlighted the ecological importance of the site and sought the assistance of noted wildlife conservationist Vinod Karwasra Bishnoi. Their efforts culminated in a proposal to the state government, supported by the Jind deputy commissioner and Narwana MLA, which eventually led to the official declaration of the reserve.
“The reserve has been named Devbhoomi community reserve in accordance with the sentiments of the people of Kalwan village. As per the villagers’ demand and panchayat’s proposal, a digital map and detailed project report were prepared and forwarded with official recommendations. This recognition by the state is a result of the community’s consistent efforts,” said Karwasra.
“Villagers established the Maharishi Dayanand Bird Sanctuary on their own to take care of these birds. Because of these efforts, the region has a flourishing biodiversity. The forest is dotted with ancient Jal and Khejri trees, which further enhance the habitat, making it attractive to migratory birds,” he said.
Role of Migratory Birds Migratory birds are essential indicators of ecological health. Their seasonal visits reflect the availability of resources, quality of habitat, and balance within ecosystems. The fact that 34 species choose Kalwan as their temporary home every winter underscores the forest’s ecological value. By providing safe resting and feeding grounds, the reserve contributes not only to the survival of these species but also to the preservation of global biodiversity.
Endangered species like the common pochard, a diving duck, and the black-tailed godwit, a long-billed wader, find refuge in Kalwan during their long journeys. Protection of such habitats is crucial as these species face threats from habitat loss, climate change, and hunting across their migratory routes.
Governance and Future Plans With the official declaration as a community reserve, a management committee will now be established to oversee conservation activities in Devbhoomi Kalwan. The panel will include at least five local representatives alongside an official from the district wildlife department, who will serve as the secretary. The committee will prepare a detailed conservation plan, which will be submitted to the state government for approval before being implemented.
This structure ensures that villagers — who have historically cared for the forest — will remain central to its management, while also receiving institutional support and technical guidance from the wildlife department. Such a collaborative governance model fosters accountability, ensures local participation, and enhances the effectiveness of conservation measures.
“This step of protection will not only preserve regional biodiversity but will also become an inspirational model for other districts and states. Active involvement of local people ensures long-term sustainability and builds a sense of ownership,” the official said.
An Inspirational Model The declaration of Devbhoomi Kalwan as a community reserve carries lessons beyond Jind district. It demonstrates how grassroots initiatives, backed by government action, can create effective models of conservation. It highlights the importance of community ownership, traditional knowledge, and cultural values in protecting natural resources.
The Devbhoomi Kalwan Community Reserve thus represents more than just a patch of protected land. It is a symbol of partnership between people and government, a sanctuary for threatened wildlife, and an inspiration for conservation practices across the country.
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