WSL Desk
The Climate Narrative Hub (CNH), an initiative by Dasra and Momentum Shifts in collaboration with the Rainmatter Foundation, has released a new handbook aimed at strengthening media coverage of human–wildlife interactions in India. Launched recently on the International Day of Forests, the guide seeks to equip journalists and content creators with tools to report with greater context, clarity, and on-ground insight.
Centering Coexistence and Community Knowledge
Developed in partnership with organisations including Network for Conserving Central India, Wildlife Conservation Society–India, Coexistence Consortium, The Corbett Foundation, Vidhi Centre for Legal Policy, and The Nature Conservancy, the handbook aims to move beyond crisis-driven coverage. It encourages a more nuanced understanding of the complex ecological and social dynamics that shape interactions between communities and wildlife across the country.
According to the official release, the guide promotes a broader approach to reporting on human–wildlife interactions by drawing greater attention to coexistence, adaptation, and the everyday practices through which communities navigate shared environments. It underscores that many forest-dependent populations possess deep knowledge of local ecosystems, seasonal patterns, and biodiversity, and calls for these lived experiences to be more accurately reflected in media coverage.
Vishaka George, Communication Consultant at Dasra, emphasised the importance of responsible storytelling. She noted, “There are many stories to be told about our forests, their biodiversity, and the communities that live alongside them. Told more often and with care, they can deepen public connection to nature and shift conversations towards protecting both communities and wildlife. We hope this resource encourages more thoughtful, sensitive storytelling, mindful of language, data, and whose voices are centred.”
Tools for Responsible and Informed Journalism
The handbook provides practical resources to support journalists, including a sample questionnaire designed to enable sensitive and informed reporting, a curated directory of experts across research and practice, and a repository of credible data sources. According to the official release dated March 24, 2026, these tools are intended to help avoid sensationalism while ensuring evidence-based and context-rich storytelling.
Amplifying Voices from the Ground
Drawing on consultations with researchers and practitioners, the guide outlines key principles for improved reporting. These include examining broader ecological and systemic factors beyond immediate incidents, using neutral and precise language, and ensuring diverse representation by including voices from forest-dwelling communities, Adivasi elders, women, and grassroots conservation practitioners alongside official sources. It also highlights the value of capturing the full spectrum of human–wildlife relationships, including local adaptation strategies and on-ground solutions.
The Climate Narrative Hub is a collaborative initiative by Dasra and Momentum Shifts, supported by the Rainmatter Foundation, focused on strengthening climate and environmental storytelling in India.
