How many forest rangers have been killed or injured in the line of duty?

According to the WTI report, the report features 540 rangers who were killed or injured while protecting India's forests and wildlife.

How did the COVID-19 pandemic impact India's forest rangers?

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Wildlife Trust of India (WTI) extended support to 173 families of forest staff who lost their lives through a dedicated Conservation Heroes COVID Casualty Fund.

Home / Environment / Unsung Heroes: India's Forest Rangers Risking Lives to Protect Wildlife

Unsung Heroes: India's Forest Rangers Risking Lives to Protect Wildlife

Q: What is the Van Rakshak Project?

The Van Rakshak Project (VRP) is an initiative launched by the Wildlife Trust of India (WTI) in 2000 with the support of the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW). The project aims to build a strong, well-equipped, and motivated force of frontline forest staff across India.

12 Oct, 2025

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Summary

540 rangers killed or injured protecting India's forests
WTI report highlights critical role and challenges of frontline forest staff
COVID-19 pandemic claimed lives of 173 forest staff

Unsung Heroes: India's Forest Rangers Risking Lives to Protect Wildlife

A comprehensive report released on October 11, 2025, by the Wildlife Trust of India (WTI) has shed light on the critical role and immense challenges faced by India's frontline forest staff, the "unsung heroes" who are responsible for protecting the country's vast natural heritage.

The report, titled "Guardians of the Wild: Supporting India's Frontline Forest Staff," features the personal narratives of 540 rangers, known globally as "Van Rakshaks," who were killed or injured while on duty. These forest protectors are tasked with round-the-clock patrolling, wildlife monitoring, mitigating human-wildlife conflict, and combating wildlife crime, often under life-threatening conditions.

The WTI's Van Rakshak Project, launched in 2000 with the support of the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW), has aimed to build a strong, well-equipped, and motivated force of frontline forest staff across India. Over the past 25 years, the project has supported more than 21,000 personnel through various capacity-strengthening initiatives, including training workshops and the provision of essential field gear.