NEDUMKAYAM FOREST STATION VISIT

The Department of Forensic Science, MES Kalladi College, Mannarkkad conducted a one-day field visit to the Nedumkayam Forest Station, Nilambur on 6th November 2025. The visit was led by our HOD, Dinsha K, coordinated by Aruna B Ajikumar, and we were also guided by Ms. Malavika U, who accompanied us throughout the visit. The Beat Forest Officer, Mr. M. V. Pradeep guided us throughout the visit, providing valuable knowledge about the two main forest acts; the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 and the Indian Forest Act, 1927. He shared insights about the major crimes occurring in the forest area, mainly human–animal conflicts resulting from climate change and ignorant human practices, which cause an imbalance in the forest ecosystem. Nedumkayam is well known for its teak plantations, often referred to as having a “golden presence”, making it one of a kind and renowned worldwide. We were also taken on a tour to the timber mills, where people can purchase teak wood. The Karimpuzha Wildlife Sanctuary, located about 15 km deep inside the forest which is the most recently established Wildlife Sanctuary in Kerala. It primarily protects an endangered species of fish known as the red fin mahseer and shares its borders with the Silent Valley National Park. The Beat Forest Officer introduced us to Mr. Vinod Maanchery, the first and only person from the Cholanaikkan community to obtain a graduate degree and pursue a doctorate. He explained the lifestyle of the Cholanaikkans ,a tribal community consisting of fewer than 450 individuals, who are the last surviving members of this community in the world. They live deep within the Nedumkayam forest, away from urbanization, adhering to their traditional way of life ; residing in caves and living in harmony with nature. Mr. Maanchery clarified our doubts about tribal life and emphasized their beautiful custom of adopting orphans, where the orphans themselves have the right to choose which settlement and family they wish to live with. He inspired us with his words: “Knowledge should be respected and not made fun of.” A statue of their ancestors, depicting the simplicity and rawness of their lifestyle, was also shown to us by Mr. Pradeep. The Beat Forest Officer further guided us to several important sites in the forest, including the Nedumkayam Iron Bridge, designed and constructed by Mr. E. S. Dawson, a British engineer, in 1933. Mr. Dawson tragically died in 1938 after falling into a deep hole in the Karimpuzha River. His tombstone where his body was buried has now become a major tourist attraction. We were also taken to the ‘Aanapanthi’ (Elephant Kraal), where elephants were once brought for domestication. However, it is now closed, as the practice of elephant domestication is no longer encouraged. The field visit to the Nedumkayam Forest Station was an enlightening and memorable experience that provided deep insights into forest conservation, wildlife protection, and the importance of maintaining ecological balance. Interacting with the forest officers and learning about the functioning of the forest department helped us understand the real-world challenges faced in protecting wildlife and preserving natural resources. The visit not only enriched our academic understanding but also fostered a greater sense of environmental responsibility among us. Overall, the trip was both educational and thought-provoking, offering a blend of history, culture, and environmental science. It strengthened our appreciation for the tireless efforts of forest officials and emphasized the need for future forensic and environmental professionals to actively contribute to wildlife protection and sustainable living.