Balancing Nature and Humanity

In the heart of India exists two kingdoms—Ranthambore and Pilibhit. Both homes to the

striped rulers of the wild, yet their stories were written in different shades of green. While

both serve as vital habitats for tigers, they present distinct narratives about management,

the environment, and the impact of human interaction.

Pilibhit is still in its infancy when it comes to developing a robust and sustainable tiger

habitat. The reserve is in the early stages of establishing its identity as a wildlife

sanctuary. In contrast, Ranthambhore has been flourishing for years, showcasing a

well-established ecosystem that attracts both wildlife enthusiasts and photographers alike.

This maturation is not only due to the age of the park but also to the comprehensive

management strategies that have been implemented over time. In my opinion, one of the

striking differences between any tiger reserve/National Park is the level of natural

environment that each offers with balanced human interference.

The sounds of shouting and fighting echo through the reserve, highlighting the negative

impact that human activity can have on wildlife. This interaction has consequences, often

disrupting the natural behaviors of the animals and creating an environment that is less

conducive to their well-being. At the heart of these observations lies a crucial moral: the

importance of respecting boundaries. This is vital for all living organisms; humans need

to find the right balance for Indian wildlife to flourish and not decay over time. The

tourists need to be attentive towards their surroundings, enjoy the journey as a whole, and

observe the moment while spotting a tiger; for example, on my last tiger spotting

experience, I saw two langurs cuddled together on a tree branch as they were scared of

the ferocious tiger.

These changes help in the development of a person, and approaches to human interaction

offer valuable lessons. We can liken the management styles of these reserves to liberal

and conservative schools of thought: Like Ranthambore, Liberal Schools may embrace a

more established and adaptive approach, fostering critical thinking and encouraging

diverse experiences. This environment supports individuals in finding their unique paths,

akin to how Ranthambore supports a diverse range of wildlife and many times, some

might face more challenges in providing a more open environment. Conservative Schools

might focus on foundational principles and gradual development. While they provide a

strong grounding in tradition, they may face challenges in adapting to new ideas and

changing circumstances.

I believe Greenfields Public school embodies a blend of these philosophies, thriving on

innovation while respecting tradition. It fosters an environment where students can

explore their passions deeply, much like how Ranthambore supports its inhabitants. Weare encouraged to be aware of our surroundings and take responsibility for our

actions—essential qualities for engaging with nature and society alike.