ICICI Foundation's gesture towards ecological restoration in tiger reserve

ICICI Foundation, the CSR arm of ICICI Bank, has undertaken key initiatives to support wildlife conservation and ecological restoration at the Nagarjunasagar Srisailam Tiger Reserve (NSTR), India’s largest tiger reserve spread across 3,725 sq. km in the Nallamala Hills of Andhra Pradesh.

Since 2023, ICICI Foundation has been working closely with forest authorities to enhance protection measures for Bengal tigers and other endangered species. The support includes both environmental rejuvenation and on-ground forest infrastructure development. To tackle seasonal water scarcity affecting wildlife, ICICI Foundation facilitated the construction of 34 artificial waterholes across the reserve. Additionally, grassland development was carried out on 130 hectares, enabling the regeneration of native vegetation and promoting a healthy habitat for herbivores and other species.

In its efforts to strengthen wildfire management and prevention, ICICI Foundation donated 100 fire blowers and 75 grass cutters. These tools are now being used by ground staff to manage dry forest areas and prevent the spread of fire during peak summer months.

Wildlife monitoring and patrolling have also been upgraded. ICICI Foundation donated five patrolling vehicles to improve mobility and surveillance in forest zones. Furthermore, 50 solar panels of 1 kWh each (cumulative 50 kWh) were installed at key patrolling locations, ensuring uninterrupted monitoring while promoting clean energy use.

To ensure year-round water availability in key hill ranges, nine solar-powered water pumps were installed. These are now actively supporting the hydration needs of wildlife in remote zones of the reserve. With these focused interventions, ICICI Foundation continues to support India’s conservation agenda by protecting one of the country's most ecologically significant forest reserves and contributing to the long-term sustainability of its biodiversity.