The Thirupudaimaruthur village panchayat lies on the banks of the Tamiraparani River and is known for its ecological and cultural significance. In 2005, to conserve its natural heritage, Thirupudaimaruthur Bird Conservation Reserve (TBCR) was established in the village. Meanwhile, Narambunathar Swamy Temple, the 1000-year-old Shaivite temple in the village, brings a significant number of pilgrims and visitors each year. However, the local community does not benefit from this recognition and is often overlooked for ecological, social and economic interventions.

At present, the village faces critical concerns regarding livelihood, solid and wastewater management, sanitation and hygiene, and river pollution, which also affects the ecological health of the village. Ecological health is influenced by how the community interacts with the environment, manages natural resources and addresses waste generation and management. By integrating these elements, we are proposing a community-based ecotourism model that will ensure the involvement of the local community in conservation and at the same time benefit them socially and economically. The project will bridge ecological health and community-driven economic growth, guaranteeing measures for environmental sustainability and community well-being.

Detailed Project Report