Browsing by Author "Badola, Ruchi"

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A study on the resource dependence, human-wildlife conflict and community participation in forest management in Alaknand basin, Uttarakhand.
(wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun, 2018) Manral, Upma; Hussain, S.A.; Badola, Ruchi
Himalayan mountains are highly dynamic systems with both natural and anthropogenic disturbances acting as integral drivers of natural system dynamics in the region. The consequent changes brought into the system determine ecosystem productivity and the flow of ecosystem services to the humans. Any degradation of ecosystem functions and services will increase both the environmental and socioeconomic vulnerability of mountain communities which are highly reliant on natural systems, particularly forests of the area. The objectives of the study were to: a) quantify the extent of extraction of plant resources in different villages located at different elevations; b) assess the availability of major phyto-resources in and around the villages and surrounding forests along elevational gradient in the Alaknanda river basin; c) assess the extent of human-wildlife conflicts affecting the livelihood in the study area; and d) measure the contribution of community forest management practices in livelihoods of local communities. Four hypothesis were framed as: a) patterns of both availability and the extraction of forest resources in the study area xi change along the elevational gradient; b) human–wildlife conflicts negatively impact livelihood generation of affected communities; c) community forest management practices play a role in augmenting livelihood of local communities in the area; and d) better managed forests in an area are the result of community participation in forest management
A study people – Protected Area interface at Keibul Lamjao National Park, Manipur.
(Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun, 2014) Leima, Sanggai; Badola, Ruchi; Hussain, S.A.
Keibul Lamjao National Park (KLNP) is the only natural home of the remnant population of endangered brow antlered deer or Sangai whose habitat is the phumdi- a unique part of the habitat of KLNP. It is a floating mass of entangled vegetation formed by the accumulation of organic debris and biomass with soil particles. It covers approximately two thirds of the area of the park and the thickness varies from a few centimeters to about two meters. However, due to illegal exploitation of resources from the park in the form of vegetable and fuelwood collection, the park is facing consistent anthropogenic pressures which are posing a threat to the habitat of Sangai. A need arises to understand local people’s dependence on the park as well as their perceptions and attitudes in order to devise management strategies to solve parkpeople conflicts. Thus, the main objectives of the present study were to (a) examine the socioeconomic and demographic conditions of the villagers around KLNP, (b) quantify the resources extracted from the park and its contribution to the livelihoods of the local people, (c) assess the impacts of anthropogenic activities on the wildlife habitat, (d) examine the conservation awareness and attitudes of people towards the park and alternative livelihood options and (e) to assess the economic value of the park in terms of recreation for the conservation of Sangai and KLNP.
An assessment of eco-development initiatives in Periyar Tiger Reserve.
(Wildlife Institute of India, 2007) Bhardwaj, Anil; Badola, Ruchi
The present study was undertaken with the objectives of examining the kind of input provided to local communities (Ecodevelopment committees) through ecodevelopment program. To examine the impact of ecodevelopment program and to critically examine the factors responsible for the success and failure of ecodevelopment initiative with respect to Periyar tiger reserve and suggest measures for effective implementation of the future program. The study was carried out in and around Periyar tiger reserve, Kerala
An Assessment of Recreational Value of Periyar Tiger Reserve and the Distribution of Tourism Income Among Stakeholders
(Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun, 2013) Sebastian, Subish; Badola, Ruchi; Hussain, S.A.; Uniyal, V.K.
Protected Areas (PA) are cornerstone for biodiversity conservation and their role in maintaining flow of ecosystem goods and services is now being acknowledged. But it is difficult to justify their creation when demand for employment, infrastructure increases, and thus government may take decision looking at the short term economic prosperity. When economic wealth generated through development activity and compared to the income generated from P A, the former does over shadow the income generated from P A conservation. But in doing so, the other benefits of conservation remain unaccounted. These benefits range from provision of fuel, fodder, food, to local communities at local scale, and provision of clean water, air purification, and aesthetic and bequest value at regional or larger spatial scales. Accounting of the services such as recreational value provided by the P A can help generate support for conservation at all spatial scales. The Periyar Tiger Reserve (PTR) is a popular tourist destination visited by the people by national and international tourists. Ecotourism programs are implemented in PTR as an integrated conservation and development project for sustainable development of local communities, and to create awareness as well as to promote conservation. The success of this program can be largely attributed to its charismatic flagships species and its unique water safari where tourists can enjoy the wildlife in scenic background on either side of the Periyar Lake. Encouraged by the success of tourism, more and more communities have enrolled themselves in different activities which are either directly or indirectly connected with tourism. Being the most visited and popular P A, it becomes imperative to explore the recreational value of the PTR. Also, since local communities living in and around PTR are traditionally dependent on the reserve's resources and are being involved in ecotourism activities, it is essential to assess the distribution of ecotourism benefits stakeholders. It is well known that support for conservation can be generated if the communities are obtaining benefits from conservation linked tourism. But the monetary leakages in community based tourism or ecotourism often undermine the support for conservation. Thus, PTR being an ecotourism site, it is crucial to know the monetary leakages occurring onsite in PTR and how this revenue related linkages and leakages mould the attitude of stakeholder towards biodiversity conservation? The recreational value of PTR was calculated using the Zonal Travel Cost Method. This method helps to derive the demand function for the site. Questionnaire survey was carried out to know the socio-economic status, the monetary flow in the household; examine people attitude towards PTR. One hundred twenty five in-depth interviews were conducted among eight major stakeholders whose dependency on tourism was very high. For assessing the best existing model which underlines the principles of ecotourism, the tourism was classified into three kinds, first one Tourism run by private party, secondly Tourism run by local community, and finally Tourism run by Periyar Tiger Reserve's EDCs. The recreational value of the reserve was estimated as Rs. 44176299.32. With the cost per visitor being Rs. 63.56 the consumers' surplus was large, showing the willingness of visitors to pay for wildlife recreation. The socio economic study reveals that the 'Tourism Programs' run by EDCs are the best models providing 100% share to local communities, followed by the home stays run by local communities. Monetary leakages were highest in case of resorts (82%), followed by 20% leakages from home stay, while no leakage was observed at EDC. The leakage of 200/0 is due to the link with foreign players like tour operators and other resorts who market their products. Even though resorts that the private player run programs claim as ecotourism, only 14.9% of share goes to the local community. The results obtained indicate that the conservation attitudes are not influenced by income class, education, gender and age of the respondents. Attitude of local community is highly Positive towards forest and wildlife conservation, which can be attributed to the benefit sharing approach developed by Forest Department. The findings indicate that the participatory approach and benefit sharing are good means to promote sustainable use of natural resources. High consumer surplus for visits to PTR suggests that recreational value of PTR is higher than the current expenditure by the people. Thus, there is a poss~bi1ity of increasing the ecotourism. fee, which would contribute to higher turnover for the forest department. Tourism income is not equitably distributed among stakeholders. The percent of locals employed in profitable ecotourism ventures was less, resulting in 82% monetary leakages. Support for conservation is very high among all stakeholders in PTR but this scenario or this state can't be clearly attributed to the benefits derived from the tourism. Forest department play a major role in creating awareness. Conflict among stakeholder group about the revenue sharing and the mode of aggressive marketing does not affect their perception about wildlife. Occupation does not affect the attitude of stakeholders. Benefits derived from tourism lead to positive attitude of local communities and enhance conservation support among local communities. Higher employment of locals in the resorts, massaging parlours and as taxi and tour operators would lead to sustainability of ecotourism in PTR. Capacity building and financial assistance to the locals would enhance local employment and minimize monetary leakages and thus increase benefits to the locals.
Assessment of provisioning service and the recreational value of Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve.
(Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun, 2015) Pariva; Hussain, S.A.; Badola, Ruchi
The ecological services and the natural capital stocks that produce them are critical to the functioning of the earth’s life-support system. Because of the direct use of the structural value provided by natural ecosystems and in most cases of free access to such ecosystems they are under heavy utilization pressure. The harmful effects of degrading ecosystem services are being disproportionately borne by the poor and are contributing to the growing economic inequities as well as environmental hazards to which the poor are the most vulnerable. Present work aimed to understand the status of the provisioning and recreational services of the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve (NDBR) and their contribution in securing wellbeing of local communities. The study was carried out with five objectives: (a) assess the socioeconomic status of local communities in NDBR, (b) quantify the provisioning services of the Reserve in terms of resource extraction, (c) estimate the recreational and religious value of the Reserve and its contribution to local livelihoods, (d) assess the extent of human-wildlife conflicts in the Reserve; and to (e) examine the attitude of local communities towards the conservation of the Reserve.
Food habits of sympatric large herbivores in Kaziranga National Park, Assam, India
(Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun, 2023) Devi, Anita; Hussain, S.A.; Badola, Ruchi
This study aims to a. address the welfare state of Asiatic lions (Panthera leo persica) based on environmental factors and individual-level differences, and b. propose a methodological framework for evaluation and improvement welfare in captive environments. In this chapter, I will set up the context for this study with a brief chronology of our understanding of the origin of animal welfare and the science of zoo biology and their relevance to the Asiatic lion conservation breeding programme (CBP)
Pastoral Practice and Herders Attitude Towards Wildlife in South Gobi Mongolia
(Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun, 2011) Mijiddorj, Tserennadmid; Rawat, G.S.; Badola, Ruchi
This study deals with analysis of traditional and current pastoral practices in south Gobi areas of Mongolia with emphasis on herders' attitude towards wildlife. The study was conducted during December 2010 to May 2011. The major objectives of the study were to study: (i) Nomadic herders' pastoral practices and drives of changes. (ii) Influence of pastoral practices on human-wildlife conflict and (iii) nomadic herders' attitude towards wildlife. I used questionnaire surveys in two villages in Gurvantes soum to find out the past and current patters of herding, herders' attitudes and major drivers of changes. The villages were selected based on the fact that in one village (Tost), Snow Leopard Conservation initiatives are going along with livestock insurance and research programs, while in another village (Baysah) no conservation initiatives have been undertaken. However the range use patterns by the local herders and the level of conflict with wild carnivores is the same in both areas. A total of 144 individuals from different age, gender and educational background were interviewed, 74 in 8 aysah (nonconservation) area and 70 from Tost area where snow leopard conservation activities are taking place. The data were analyzed using SPSS Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) PC version 16.0 for . Generalized linear model GLM linear and negative binomial with log linear model. The study reveals that the pastoral practices among the herders in the study area is largely influenced by land tenure, mining disorder, school kids' admissions and development factors. Assessment of pastoral practice changes revealed that 84.7% herders had highly altered their seasonal movement pattern which can affect pasture degradation and regeneration of grass growth. Owing to changes in pastoral practices, the herders have become more prone to lose more livestock to carnivores. Using GLM models it is proven (Wald chi-square =4.551 df=11 P=O.033) that recent faulty pastoral practice change (.e.g, nuclear family, vulnerable for natural disaster and herding techniques) explains livestock losses due to the carnivores. It requires implementing livestock husbandry management in better ways. Gurvantes soum's two different villages offered ideal condition to compare carnivore conservation efficiency and way to forward to mitigate such human-wildlife conflict. Study indicated that in generally herders positive perception towards ungulates whereas carnivores Tost (conservation area) area herders' tolerance level was higher than those of baysah area (non-conservation area) (t=5.23, df=89. P
Plant community structure and biomass productivity of seasonally flooded wetlands of Brahmaputra floodplains, Assam India
(Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun, 2024) Sharma, Monika; Hussain, S.A.; Badola, Ruchi
The study aimed to (a) examine the seed bank characteristics of seasonally flooded wet grasslands (b)Examine the plant species composition of these wet grasslands in terms of species diversity, richness and community structure (c) determine the biomass productivity of these wet grasslands in different inundation and management regimes and invasive removal (d) quantify the amount of biomass extracted by local people from Kaziranga tiger reserve,
Role of provisioning and cultural ecosystem services of Protected Area in supporting human health
(Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun, 2024) Shekhar, Shashank; Badola, Ruchi
Ecosystem Services (ES) are vital ecological functions that contribute significantly to human well-being. This study explores the provisioning and cultural ecosystem services provided by Kaziranga National Park (KNP), a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Assam, India, and their role in supporting the health and well-being of local communities. Despite extensive research on the general benefits of natural environments, specific studies on protected areas and their direct health benefits are sparse. This research addresses this gap by assessing how KNP's ecosystem services influence human health and well-being. The study aims to evaluate the multifaceted benefits of KNP, focusing on provisioning services such as fish, wild fruits, vegetables, and medicinal plants, as well as cultural services including recreation, aesthetic value, and traditional cultural practices. Methodologically, the research employs household surveys, interviews, economic valuation techniques, and ethnographic studies to gather comprehensive data on resource usage, cultural significance, and health outcomes. Data collection spans from 2018 to 2022, involving 750 households from 31 villages within KNP's zone of influence, along with a tourist survey of 379 individuals who visited KNP. Key findings reveal that local communities heavily depend on resources from the vicinity of KNP, with significant economic and health benefits. Provisioning services such as fish and wild vegetables contribute substantially to food security and traditional healthcare, while cultural services enhance mental health and community cohesion. The study establishes a positive correlation between the use of these ecosystem services and improved health metrics, such as reduced disease incidence and better overall quality of life. Additionally, cultural engagement within the park correlates with higher household income and educational access. The research underscores the critical role of natural ecosystems in supporting human health and advocates for integrated conservation and health policies. Sustainable management practices, community engagement, and technological advancements are recommended to preserve KNP's biodiversity and enhance its benefits. Future research should expand to include supporting and regulating services and assess the long-term impacts of climate change on KNP's ecosystem services. In conclusion, this study highlights the significant socio-economic and health benefits derived from KNP's ecosystem services, emphasizing the need for policies that integrate environmental conservation with public health and community development. Kaziranga
Storied Landscapes : A Study of the Ecological Narratives of the Bhotiyas (TOLCHHAS, MARCHAS AND JADS) of Uttarakhand
(Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun, 2021) Saurav, Devshish; Badola, Ruchi; Baroth, Anju
Himalaya is still young and growing; the formation of Himalayan ranges is still going on Vast terrain, unstable stretches, extreme climatic conditions and other potential hazards are major challenges for the inhabitants of the area. Humans have survived all such challenges since ages, it is a story of settlers’ survival and sustainability. The story of survival narrates the suitability of the wise traditional practices and sustainable community based approach. This process follows the lessons learnt from trials and errors, cultural assimilation and devoted observations. This is reflected in socio-cultural spheres, technological understanding and institutional structure of local Bhotiya (Jads, Tolchha, Marcha) society.It is important to understand the Himalayan settlers historically, the cultural practices of inhabitants help us in understanding the background, origin and nature of local traditions. Jads,Tolchhas and Marchas are such ethnic groups from Uttarakhand who evolved and settled in Himalayan region over a course of time. They follow different cultural traits, livelihood practices and hold different socio-political and religious affiliations. They inhabit the northern and upper ranges of Himalayas. The blend of Tibetan Buddhism and Hinduism is reflected from their culture and nomadic lifestyle. Since very old time the Middle Himalayan region of Garhwal and Kumaun have been under the influence of Hinduism.
Vegetation Structure Distribution and Carbon Sequestration Potential of Mnagroves Along Soil Salinity gradient in Coringa Wildlife Sanctuary Andhra Pradesh
(Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun, 2015) Anand, Dipak; Gopi, G.V.; Sivakumar, K.; Badola, Ruchi
This study was carried out with aim of understanding the mangrove dynamics along with carbon storage abilities of various mangrove species that occur in the Coringa Wildlife Sanctuary and also the various environmental factors that would probably determine the mangrove structure, their distribution and carbon sequestration potential, from December 2014 to May 2015.