Biodiversity Conservation versus Rural Development: What Kind of Possible Harmonization? The Case Study of Alwar District, Rajasthan, India

摘要

The recent development in biodiversity conservation policy and the creation of protected areas in many developing countries have often brought about a conflict between local populations, their domestic government and development institutions. These policies have very often ignored the dependence of local communities on natural resources for their day-to-day lives and have contributed to their marginalization. The conservation of natural resources is closely linked to the sustainable development of rural communities. As a result, ecosystem conservation is not only important from an ecological point of view but also includes a dimension of equality and social justice. This article aims to explore the conditions that can enable the integration of conservation objectives with those of rural development. The Sariska Reserve presents an example of a successful community based on conservation initiative. The study of these local communities, their integration with forest ecosystem and their management and conservation system of natural resources, represents a case-in-point for the conception of new conservation approaches.