MANAGALURU, Aug. 3 -- For generations, the Malekudiya people of Karnataka's Western Ghats knew every bend in the forest-trails, every medicinal plant and every bird call. That knowledge rarely translated into economic security. Today, it has become their profession.

A new trekking policy introduced by Karnataka's forest department has turned members of the indigenous forest dwelling community into certified nature guides, creating a steady source of income while placing those most familiar with the landscape at the centre of the visitor experience.

More than 60 members of the Malekudiya tribe have been certified to guide trekkers on the Nethravathi Peak trail alone. Others from the community now work on the Kudremukh, Gangadikal and Kur...