Welcome to APOWA (Action for Protection of Wild Animals), one of the trusted not for profit organization on a mission of “building community of people to support the welfare of animals and the environment to improve the relationships between man, animal and environment" since 1999.
Major Initiatives
Mangroves, the life supporting eco-system (wildlife habitats, sustains livelihood, buffers from cyclone and storm surges, carbon sink etc.) and offer many benefits, but they are facing numerous threats. So, we have been promoting community-led initiative integrating with scientific approaches ensures sustainable and key to the success of our restoration efforts since last 20 years.
Mission Mangroves
Olive Ridley Conservation
The Olive Ridley Sea turtle is an ecologically important species, listed as vulnerable on the IUCN Red List. We promote a community-led conservation model that integrates scientific in-situ and ex-situ turtle conservation, beach waste management, capacity building and education in association with local Forest Department as well as other stakeholders.
2 nesting sites protected
500+ people trained
2000+ local people educated
1000+ school children involved 200+ dustbins install in boats
Bhitarkanika Project
Bhitarkanika is known for its rich biodiversity and designated as a Ramsar site, highlighting their international importance. Despite this , the surrounding population lacks awareness and poverty leads to people damaging the environment without realizing it. In response to these issues, we strive to conserving the Bhitarkanika
100+ Biodiversity Management Committee formed
500+ BMC members trained on biodiversity management
100+ Backyard Fresh Water Pond Restored
150+ farmers promoted on organic practices
100+ traditional artisans supported for nalia grass craft
Human-Elephant Co-Existence
The Human-Elephant Co-Existence project aim to promote peaceful coexistence between humans and elephants by implementing sustainable solutions that reduce conflicts.
100+ villages reached on assessment of conflict
200+ school children reached via education classes in schools
Mobile Clinic for Animals
Our Mobile clinic is a lifesaving initiative for the animals in distress and a boon for small, poor farmers in rural areas. This initiative not only reduce suffering of animals but also supports the livelihoods of disadvantaged farmers.
5000+ distress animals reached
100000+ animals rescued, provided relief during natural disasters
100+ villages provided with first aid for animals services
2000+ people provided capacity building training on animal welfare
Working Animal Welfare
The working animal's life is hard, with awful workloads, poor nutrition, cruelty, improper handling and poor housing that result in pain, poor health, fatigue, dehydration and malnutrition. So, we try to alleviate the suffering of working cattle, buffaloes, horses, and donkeys through vet care, training of owners, proper harness, shed renovation etc.
2000+ animals reached each year
500+ indigenous family supported
Women for Wetland
The wetlands support livelihoods and habitat for a variety of species, including wildlife, birds etc. Wetlands face numerous threats, including habitat destruction, pollution, climate change, and overexploitation of resources. As the local women are connected closely with wetlands, so we putting these groups as the focus of this project is thus an effective tool for community stewardship for wetland conservation.
500+ women provided training on sustainable agriculture, science-led bio-manure use in vegetable farming and wetlands management.
100+ women provided skill development and design training on handicraft training
Humane Education
We inculcate humane values, kindness and nonviolence at early school days. The program is activity-oriented and has been effective in changing the attitude of the student community towards animals and environment in a positive way.
1000+ school children reached
100+ schools reached
1000+ teachers trained
Climate Action
Promoting community led initiatives, local resource management and improving local resilience to climate impacts. We engaging local stakeholders and tailoring solutions to specific community needs, contribute to broader climate goals while fostering sustainable practices.
Peoples Biodiversity Register
Preparing gram panchayat level People’s Biodiversity Register (PBR) in Bhitarkanika area involves documenting the local biodiversity, traditional knowledge, and practices of the community.
Our Organization
APOWA is committed to creating a positive impact on animals, nature and communities through our sustainable approach and strive to create a harmonious balance between human and wildlife, ensuring a healthier planet. APOWA works to protect endangered species, restore ecosystems and promote animal welfare in scientifically and involving local communities, governments and other stakeholders. Our track record of successful initiatives, along with our 27+ years of experience, makes us one of the most reliable organization.
News & Blog
Combining science and community empowerment to conserve sea turtles
Our sea turtle conservation initiative has been successful over the years because of a combination of science and community empowerment. The most critical takeaways focus on holistic approach through active community involvement, habitat protection and continuous adaptation to modern environmental challenges.
Acting locally for global impact
Story of a coastal village (Jagannathpur, Kendrapara, Odisha) restored degraded wetland to make a climate-resilient and ecologically functional habitat for biodiversity. The villagers worked together included reforestation, sustainable practices, enhanced livelihood and community-led conservation initiatives. This not only improved biodiversity but also provided a buffer against flooding and storm surges. Their efforts serve as a model for community-led conservation and climate adaptation in vulnerable coastal areas.
Empowering Biodiversity Management Committees
Bhitarkanika is internationally recognized for its diversity listed as a Ramsar site. However, despite Bhitarkanika's ecological importance, it faces a number of challenges. To document biodiversity, traditional knowledge and practices, we are preparing People's Biodiversity Registers (PBRs) in 51-gram panchayats in collaboration with the Odisha Biodiversity Board.
Technology for mangroves
We are using drone technology and monitor the growth, health and survival of mangrove plantations by taking high-resolution, georeferenced aerial images. Drones allow for the efficient collection of data over large areas, reducing the time and manual surveys.
