Kadbanwadi Gypsy Safari Launched in Pune District: Eco-Tourism Gets a Boost
Indapur, 28th June 2025: In a bid to promote eco-tourism in Pune district, Maharashtra’s Sports and Youth Welfare Minister Dattatray Bharane today inaugurated the Gypsy Safari initiative in the grassland region of Kadbanwadi, Indapur.
The launch event was held in the presence of senior forest officials, elected representatives, and local residents, and marks a major step in unlocking the eco-tourism potential of this lesser-known natural landscape.
Speaking at the inauguration, Minister Bharane encouraged citizens to explore the unique safari experience and become ambassadors of Kadbanwadi’s natural beauty. “This region is a treasure trove of biodiversity and open grasslands. I urge people to visit, enjoy, and help spread awareness about it,” he said.
As part of the initiative, the Pune Forest Department distributed cheques of ₹1 lakh each to three gypsy vehicle owners, offering financial support to local entrepreneurs participating in the safari scheme. This move is aimed at empowering local communities and building a sustainable eco-tourism model that benefits both nature and livelihoods.
The event also saw the unveiling of the official logo for the Kadbanwadi grassland, giving the initiative a visual identity that will be used across promotional materials.
Minister Bharane also joined a safari ride, underscoring his support and optimism for the project’s potential to attract nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts from across the state and beyond.
Key Dignitaries Present
The inauguration was attended by several key officials and local leaders, including:
Conservator of Forests Thakare
Deputy Conservator Mahadev Mohite
Assistant Conservator Mangesh Tate
Indapur Range Officer Bhagyashree Thakur
Kadbanwadi Forest Management Committee President Jalbhushan Pawar
Member Dadasaheb Jadhav
Sarpanch Sangita Gawde
Deputy Sarpanch Advocate Sachin Raut
Members of the Friends of Nature Club, Nimgaon Ketki
And numerous residents from Kadbanwadi and nearby villages
The Gypsy Safari initiative is expected to generate awareness, employment, and conservation interest in the region, turning Kadbanwadi into a model for community-led eco-tourism.
