The world of wildlife conservation has witnessed countless unsung heroes, but this story of Forest Range officer Shubham Khare stands out for the innovation and compassion involved in it. Mr. Khare’s journey began with a simple yet pressing concern: the electrocution of animals, near electric wires and field protectors. This grave issue prompted him to embark on a mission to create a solution, ultimately leading to the invention of a device that has the potential to save countless animal lives.
In an exclusive conversation with Indian Masterminds, the officer shared details about his invention that helped prevent animal electrocution in Sanjay Tiger Reserve and Pench Tiger Reserve.
A NECESSITY
Stationed at the Sanjay Tiger Reserve, Shubham Khare recognized the pressing need for a device that could deter animals from approaching dangerous electric wires and lines. He began working on prototypes to address this issue, determined to find a solution. However, the path to success was not without its challenges.
“Our main intention was to check the high-tension power lines from a distance and analyze the current flow. It took several months and numerous prototypes before we could arrive at a viable solution,” shared Mr. Khare.
DEVICE PRODUCTION
Mr. Khare and his team took inspiration from readily available electricity tester pens, which can quickly detect the presence of current in electronic devices through touch. They ingeniously modified these pens by adding a copper antenna and a button to enhance their functionality.
The copper’s high conductivity and affordability made it the ideal choice for this innovation. After rigorous testing, the modified tester pens successfully analyzed the power from afar.
“We inserted a copper antenna and a button in the chip of the tester as the conductivity of copper is considered to be extremely high and the metal is also cheap and easily available. Once it was done, we tested the product at home and, to our happiness, it successfully analyzed the power from afar!” he told Indian Masterminds.
FIELD TESTING
Field testing was the next crucial step in the device’s development. Mr. Khare and his team tested the modified pens on high-tension 11KB lights, capable of delivering powerful electric shocks. To their delight, the tester pens accurately detected the power source from a remarkable distance of 60 feet, indicated by blinking lights.
“This device has allowed us to identify the source of power from a safe distance, fulfilling our primary objective,” said Mr. Khare. He then distributed these innovative devices to his beat guards, enabling them to avoid electrocution risks while protecting roaming animals.
The devices are convenient as they operate on simple TV remote cells, eliminating the need for charging and ensuring ease of use.
EXPANDING TO PENCH
The success of this invention didn’t stop at the Sanjay Tiger Reserve. Shubham Khare extended his efforts to the Pench Tiger Reserve, providing them with 25 modified tester devices. These devices have proven to be immensely effective in preventing animal electrocution in Pench as well.
Moreover, what sets Mr. Khare’s invention apart is its affordability. Costing only Rs. 1000 per unit, it is a far more accessible and cost-effective option compared to alternatives provided by organizations like WWF, which can range from Rs. 15,000 to Rs. 20,000 per unit.
Mr. Khare’s dedication to wildlife conservation and his innovative approach to solving a critical problem exemplifies the potential of human ingenuity in safeguarding our planet’s precious species. His device not only protects animals from electrocution but also sets a shining example of how small changes can make a big difference in the world of wildlife conservation.
