Theses and Dissertations
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Item Role of provisioning and cultural ecosystem services of Protected Area in supporting human health(Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun, 2024) Shekhar, Shashank; Badola, RuchiEcosystem 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. KazirangaItem Minor Forest Produce collection under four protected areas and adjoining landscape of Kerala(Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun, 2017) Ashish, A.P.; Bhardwaj, Anil; Ghosh, SonaliMinor forest Product are said to have a huge role In rural economy and livelihood of people. Dependence of people on Minor Forest Produces are said to be subjected to forest resource governing system and other socioeconomic as well as ecological factors The first objective of the study is to assess the household level dependence of people on Minor Forest Produce and socioeconomic factors influencing the dependence and second objective is to assess the minor forest produce tree species abundance in immediate environment of households. Study was carried out in four protected areas of Kerala namely Silent Valley National Park, Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Attapady Reserve Forest and Agastyavanam Bio-Park. In Silent Valley and Attapady intensive study area was limited to single section under the protected area.