Eco-tourism Development in India,

Kevin Hannam (University of Sunderland)

 

Paper Abstract: This paper reviews the current tourism development policies of the Government of India. However, it is argued that there are major conflicts between the policies and practices of the Ministry of Tourism and the Ministry of Environment & Forests. As a result, the ecotourism development strategies that have been attempted thus far have been extremely fragmented. The paper explores the resulting conflicts at a specific national park - Kanha in Madhya Pradesh. Firstly, it examines the conflicts between the protection of specific species such as the tiger and the promotion of tourism development. Secondly, it examines the conflicts that arise between the management of a national park and the local villagers that are often displaced. Thirdly, it examines the conflicts that exist between domestic and foreign tourists. It is argued that specific animal species such as tigers are an important part of both conservation and ecotourism strategies and that the latter need to become an integral part of park management and planning

 

Ecotourism - an Emerging Need for Visitor Management (The Indian Experience)

Dr. Purva
Centre for the Study of Regional Development, School of Social Sciences, GW 1 Ganga, Uttarakhand, Jawaharal Nehru University, New Delhi 110 067, India; Email: purva@jnuniv.ernet.in; Fax: +91-11-6165886, 6198234

 

(ATTN. Dr. PURVA, CSRD/SSS)
Paper Abstract: In recent years, the trends in tourism in India have shown variation in terms of both economic and socio-cultural values. With changing lifestyles, economy and paid vacations, there has been a change in the attitude and perception of people toward travel and tourism. There has been an increase in environmental awareness and pressure of urbanization. Now, urban masses look for new get away locations, where they can get involved in active outdoor recreation. Thus, national parks and sanctuaries have emerged as the favorite destinations.
A decade ago the 500 national parks and other protected areas did not interest the holiday seekers. But, in recent times they have become "hot spots" for vacationers. As a result, the Government of India initiated the 'new ecotourism policy'. In order to generate more foreign revenue, the new policy deviates from its previous principle of 'for conservation only'. The policy, now, aims at increasing tourism by creating more services and facilities for the visitors to the protected areas. Thus, there has been a constant increase in the number of visitors during the 'season' particularly to the parks like Corbett, Ranthambore, Nagarhole, Kaziranga, etc., which have close proximity to metropolitan towns and are important for endangered species like the tiger or the one horn rhino. The visitors to these national parks are usually the youth in 18 to 30 years of age group. They are driven by the motivation to do something "adventurous".
This could involve any activity like tiger sighting, wildlife photography, camping. Many times urban visitor gets involved in prohibited and illegal activities. This leads to socio-cultural conflicts between the visitors and the local community and the other stakeholders, human-wildlife interface and other related problems. A new set of issues that have emerged out of such tourism in India is of displacement of local people. This has emerged as a major management issue in some of the parks, but has universal manifestation. Such problems and issues need to be addressed at the policy level.
This paper looks into some of such issues related to management. The present scenario of tourism in India calls for designing strategies for visitor's management such as intensive interpretation, environmental awareness programs and active involvement of local people for promoting responsible tourism. Various research techniques like, field survey & PRA, have been used. The data for the paper has been collected through questionnaire and field survey.

 

Mountain Ecotourism:

Global Perspective on Challenges and Opportunities

 

(Theme A)

Sanjay K. Nepal

University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC)

Prince George, BC

Canada V2N 4Z9

Tel: (250) 960 5628

Fax: (250) 960 5538

Email: nepals@unbc.ca

Source: Mountain Research and Development Abstracts

Volume 22, Number 2, May 2002

 

Paper Abstract: Many mountain communities around the world have promoted ecotourism to ameliorate problems of environmental degradation and under development. Although there is no agreement on what ecotourism is or should be, it is generally believed that ecotourism in the mountains will foster responsible tourist behavior, conservation of important wildlife habitats and ecosystems, appreciation of local cultures and traditional life styles, and

provision of sustainable forms of livelihood for people living in remote and communities.

This paper provides an overview of the trends in mountain ecotourism and suggests that any attempts towards mountain ecotourism should focus on sustainability; diversity; institutional reforms; gender equity; local, regional and global economic integration; local financial incentives; and peace and security. The paper concludes with the proposition for a framework for mountain ecotourism site designation

 

Green Tourism in Mountain Regions - Reducing

Vulnerability and Promoting People and Place Centric

Development in the Himalayas

 

R. B. Singh and D. K. Mishra

Department of Geography, Delhi School of Economics, University of Delhi, Delhi-110007, India,

E-mail: singhrb@ndf.vsnl.net.in / rbsgeo@hotmail.com

 

Source:Journal of Mountain Science Vol 1 No 1 (2004): 57-64

http://www.imde.ac.cn/

Article ID: 1672-6316 (2004) 01-0057-08

 

Paper Abstract: In recent years, mountain regions are attracting great attention to Indian tourists in general and foreign tourists in particular. The potential mountain resources for promoting green tourism are enormous in the form of natural and cultural heritage such as biosphere reserves, flora and fauna, lakes and rivers and traditional rural resources. In order to utilize tourism industry market, uncontrolled numbers of tourists and related haphazard infrastructural facilities in the vulnerable mountain regions pose serious environmental implications. The ecological pressures are threatening land, water and wild life resources through direct and indirect environmental impacts together with generation of solid and liquid wastes, so green tourism is emerging as an important task in order to develop new relationship between communities, government agencies and private sectors. The strategy focuses on ecological understanding, environmental protection and ecodevelopment. The major attributes of the green tourism include environmental conservation and education and distribution of income to local people based on strong partnership. Various knowledge systems go a long way for achieving the goals of the green tourism, which creates awareness about the value of environmental resources. Mountains have ecological, recreational, educational and scientific values, which need to be utilized in sustainable way. Various tourist activities and facilities need to be diversified in order to achieve multiple benefits including scientific field excursion, recreation in natural and cultural areas, community festivals and sport tourisms. Green tourism considers tourism development as an integral part of a national and regional development. The paper discusses the social, economic and environmental dimensions of the green tourism with particular reference to village tourism development programme taking empirical evidences from the Himalaya. Such programme also minimizes biophysical and human vulnerability and risks in mountain regions. The environmental consciousness campaign and introduction of code through multi- purpose Tourist Resource Centres are gaining currency in above context.

 

Keyword: Mountain region; green tourism; development programme; Kullu Himalaya

 

Promotion of environmentally responsible tourist behaviour in mountain areas

 

Patricija Verbole (Wageningen University, Netherlands)

Paper Abstract: This paper argues that effective communication with tourists is a useful tool in managing negative impacts of tourism, as it may change, shape and reinforce attitudes, perceptions, emotions and people's behaviour, and thus, can contribute to sustainable mountain tourism. Although the author acknowledges that tourists themselves are not the only ones responsible for the negative impacts on the fragile alpine habitat, she argues that increasing awareness, knowledge and mindfulness among tourists regarding the environment is necessary and essential, in order to achieve environmentally responsible behaviour. In order to achieve this, providing information alone might not be sufficient. Tourists need to have knowledge about both the impacts of various behaviour and appropriate alternatives. Also, they need to care about the visited place. In this paper, tourist behaviour is linked with the persuasive communication principles with a view to creation or reinforcement of tourist environmental sensibility, and decision-making for co-operative behavioural choices conducive to sustainable development. By integrating theories of sustainable tourism, persuasive communication, and promotion author offers guidelines for developing effective communication practices with alpine tourists through promotion materials. It is argued that such media, primarily aiming at attracting potential tourists, can at the same time contribute to environment protection by influencing behaviour of a wide range of mountain tourists that are not necessary all environmentally aware.

Keywords: sustainable tourism, mountain areas, environmentally responsible behaviour, persuasive communication, promotion

 

Environmental management and Ecotourism in the Eastern Himalayas.

 

 

Mekhala Geetika (Isabella Thoburn College, Lucknow, India)

Paper Abstract: India is crowned by the long sweep of Himalayas, the highest mountains in the world. They stretch from 2500 km from north-west to south-east and between 150 - 400 km from north to south. Nestled in the heart of Himalayas is the state of Sikkim with its rich biological diversity and cultural heritage. The forests and meadows are some of the most biologically diverse in India and contain about 30 species of Rhododendrons and 400 species of Orchids and various other flowering plants. They also act as home to about 144 mammals, 300 birds and 400 or more butterfly species. Apart from these it provides house to different ethnic groups including 'Lepchas', 'Bhutias', 'Nepalis' as well as Tibetan refugees who seek shelter in this culturally and historically rich area. The various natural treasures of this state attracts many national and international tourists thus making tourism an important income generating activity for Sikkim people. Ecotourism with its focus on environmentally sound practice such as improving garbage management, tree plantation, checking anthropological activities such as mining, construction of dams and providing training to the local inhabitants offers a timely opportunity for Sikkim to improve livelihood to protect its unique culture. The various methods of environmental management and ecotourism of eastern Himalayas of Sikkim will be discussed in detail in this paper.

Keywords: Sikkim, Ecotourism, Environmental Management, Community Participation

 

Measuring the Ecological Footprint of a Himalayan Tourist Center

Victoria Cole and A. John Sinclair

Source: Mountain Research and Development Abstracts

Volume 22, Number 2, May 2002

Paper Abstract: Finding ways to assess and measure the impact of tourism and its associated development on sustainability is critical to developing long-term sustainability plans for regions such as the Indian Himalayas. Among the methods proposed is ecological footprint (EF) analysis or appropriated carrying capacity analysis. EF analysis estimates the area of productive land and water ecosystems required to produce the resources that a population consumes and to assimilate the wastes that the population produces in supporting itself. This study used EF analysis to quantify the sustainability of Manali, a rapidly growing tourist center in Kullu District, Himachal Pradesh, India. It considered the changes in the size of Manali’s footprint since the advent of mass tourism in the early 1980s, the direct impact that tourists are having on the size of the footprint, and the challenges of applying this analysis in a developing world context. Data regarding land use, goods and services, and population were collected through local interviews and available data. The results indicate that between 1971 and 1995, the overall EF of Manali town grew from 2102 to 9665 ha, an increase of over 450%; the EF of Manali is now 25 times greater than its size. This indicates that Manali is increasingly relying on outside ecosystems for its sustenance. The article highlights areas of focus for future sustainability planning, including waste management, decreasing fossil fuel dependence, ecofriendly tourism, and creating greater environmental awareness, particularly among tourists.

Keywords: Sustainability; ecological footprint analysis; mountain development; mountain tourism; India.

 

Sustainability of land use in north-east India
Issues involving economics, the environment and biodiversity

Authors: Tisdell C.¹; Roy K.¹

Source: International Journal of Social Economics, Volume 24, Number 123, April 1997, pp. 160-177(18)

Publisher: Emerald Group Publishing Limited

Paper Abstract:Reports on a mission to north-east India undertaken in September 1996 with a view to developing a joint research programme on sustainability of land use in that area. Describes the mission, the travel involved and the nature of the agreement which was reached with members of the North-East Hill University, Mizoram Campus and with participants of Arunachal University. Identifies priority areas for future research as sustainable agriculture and use of forestry resources with the mission focus of attention being on Mizoram and Arunachal Pradesh. States that the majority of the population in north-eastern Indian states consists of tribal people, many of whom still engage in shifting agriculture and are still very dependent on forest resources for their livelihood. Explains that, owing to rising populations and the desire for higher incomes, traditional practices in agriculture and forest use in this part of India are no longer sustainable, noting that the incomes of local people and their way of life are therefore threatened and there is urgent need for research to find new alternatives.

Keywords: Agriculture; Biodiversity; Environment; Forestry; India; Sustainable development

Language: English

Document Type: Miscellaneous

Affiliations: 1: Department of Economics, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia

 

Grazing Impact on Plant Diversity and Productivity along a Tourist Trekking Corridor in the Khangchenjunga Biosphere Reserve of Sikkim

 K Singh-Phd

North Bengal University, Siliguri.

Name(s) of Guide/Supervisor(s)

Dr. R.C. Sundriyal, Dr. Eklabya Sharma.

Year of submission 2000.

Paper Abstract: The Khangchendzonga Biosphere Reserve (KBR), with a total area of 1784 sq km in core and 825.92 sq km in buffer zone is a representative of Eastern Himalayan region due to its unique habitats, exhilarating thick forests, rich flora & fauna, and famous mountain ranges including those of massive Khangchendzonga. Livestock are important source of local economy and more than one million rupee are generated from this sector from pack animals, milk and milk products and wool and wool products. A study on grazing impact on plant diversity and productivity was undertaken in KBR area to understand the vegetation composition, animal rearing pattern along the trekking corridor and its economic utility; analyze the impact of grazing on plant structure, species richness, diversity, and biomass, productivity and nutrient dynamics; and carrying capacity at selected locations at four different vegetation zones. Grazing though has an impact on plant species richness, biomass and productivity, the grazing levels is well within the carrying capacity of the grasslands barring a few places that are extensively grazed. However, there is an increasing trend of rearing more number of animals for meeting economic needs that will certainly add to the grazing pressure in near future. It is highly desirable that the villages and other nearby areas should be planted with more fodder species, and community should be motivated for raising good quality animals to reduce pressure on KBR. At the same time the villagers should also be involved in decision-making for developing the grazing regulation and other management plans for the KBR area.

 

Impact of Firewood Extraction on Tree Structure, Regeneration and Woody Biomass Productivity in a Trekking Corridor of the Sikkim Himalaya

 

Nakul Chettri, Eklabya Sharma, D. C. Deb, and R. C. Sundriyal

Source: Mountain Research and Development Abstracts

Volume 22, Number 2, May 2002

Paper Abstract: Forest cover types, tree distribution pattern, species diversity, net woody biomass productivity, and firewood extraction rates were studied along a trekking corridor (Yuksam –Dzongri) in Khangchendzonga Biosphere Reserve, Sikkim, India. For the last 2 decades the area has been facing immense pressure on its natural resources because of an increase in the numbers of tourists and the lack of effective regulation by park authorities. To assess this situation the study sites were categorized as closed canopy (CC) forest and open canopy (OC) forest (disturbed) at upper forest (UF) and lower forest (LF) sites, on the basis of firewood extraction pressure from the community and tourism enterprises. The results showed significant variations in diversity, richness, structure, productivity, and regeneration among different canopy types. OC forest showed greater plant diversity than CC forest. Firewood extraction pressure was remarkably greater in the LF near the major settlement than in the UF. Local conservation initiatives and the interventions of an ecotourism project have had visible impacts on firewood use by the community and on tourism enterprises. Although alarming, the rate of woody biomass extraction was nonetheless lower than the annual productivity rate of the stands. Participatory management and compliance by tourism enterprises with a code of conduct on alternative fuel use along the trekking corridor would help promote the conservation and maintenance of biodiversity.

Keywords: Forest cover; species diversity; temperate forest; sub alpine forest; regeneration; productivity; firewood extraction; India.

 

The Potential for a Transboundary Protected Area in the

Kanchenjunga Region of the Eastern Himalayas

 

Krishna Prasad Oli

 

Paper Abstract:

The present international borders are political boundaries. Ecosystems existed long before the political boundaries. Political boundaries and landscapes do not limit species and communities of plants and animals. Hence, many countries in the Asian region share common biological and natural resources across their borders. The rationale for Transboundary protected area are very important and consists of maintaining ecology and improving its management, economic opportunity, bringing isolated people together and provide the basis for peace and collaboration reducing hostilities among people and nations. Nepal has long felt the need for conservation of Trans-border biological resources. Most of the PA'S in Nepal are either adjacent to the international border with China or India. For example, four contiguous protected areas around Mt. Everest – Qomolangma Nature Preserve (QNP) in Tibetan Autonomous Region (TAR), China and Sagarmatha (SNP), Makalu-Barun (MBLP), and Langtang National Parks (LNP) in Nepal - conserve a large, continuous ecosystem and rich cultural and natural heritages on both sides of the Himalayas. Similarly Kanchanjungha Conservation area (KCA) is situated along the Transboundary border between Nepal the TAR and Kanchanjungha Nature Reserve (KNP) in Sikkim State of India. The area jointly covers large tracts of the Himalayas to maintain species, communities, and ecological processes for the services of mankind. The isolated communities in these Transboundary parks and reserves are home to large number of people who share a common cultural heritage. However, due to remote mountainous landscape and high-altitude environments, these people are some of the poorest in the world. Reconciling the needs of these local communities while conserving ecosystems has become a major challenge in these PA'S. The Kanchanjungha Mountain Ecosystem contains one of the richest biological diversities in the Eastern Himalayas. Realizing the need to protect this unique ecosystem, bordering nations (viz. India and Nepal) have declared Kanchanjungha Nature reserve and KCA respectively as protected areas in the Kanchanjungha region.Poor socio-economic conditions and isolated geographic location have impoverished the local communities in the Kanchanjungha region. Unaware of the potential economic values of surrounding bio-diversity, the economic necessities have compelled the local communities to engage in illegal hunting and trade of valuable plants and animal species. The problems are exacerbated due to lack of a viable livelihood for the local people and surveillance from the concerned government authorities. In recent years, Transboundary conservation is receiving greater attention due to nations recognizing their environment security. Transboundary protected area is important in this region due to many areas of high biodiversity located along the border where illegal harvest is also acute in such areas. In the Himalayan region recent efforts have been initiated for the conservation of unique biodiversity. Transboundary Conservation efforts have been initiated in the region from 1992 and from 1994 and from 1995 continuous positive efforts have been made in this direction. The paper brings a brief background of the Transboundary region of Kanchanjungha and discusses in detail critical conservation and social issues in an outstanding part of the planet. There are many social, political and reality matters that are important for the establishment of TBPA in the region. The paper focuses on the main Transboundary issues and problems and potential solutions pertaining to each issue. It also makes some suggestions for future development of Kanchenjunga as Transboundary Protected area.

 

."O' Goddess! Wife of lord Vishnu, Living deep in the Ocean, the Mountains are your breasts

Pardon me as I tread upon you with my feet".

—Arayanna Puran

 

 

Economic Benefits and Conservation Linkages from Tourism Development in the Sikkim Himalaya

 

Iyata Maharana Ph. D.

North Bengal University, Siliguri.

Name(s) of Guide/Supervisor(s)

 Dr. S.C. Rai.

Year of submission 2000.

 

Paper Abstract: Tourism sector has developed as a major industry in recent times, and there has been an increasing trend to bring more and more new areas under this reach. Sikkim is a tiny state in the eastern Himalayan region and it has been a hot spot of tourism due to its magnificently diverse landscapes, high biodiversity and rich cultural heritage, which has also generated a good source of income and employment to youths and rural masses. The region has been identified as an important ecotourism destination. This work analyses the dynamics of tourism growth, economic and environmental benefits, and participatory conservation and protection of natural resources by different stakeholders in the Sikkim state of India based on the study done in the most popular tourist’s destination for trekking and nature tourism in Khangchendzonga Biosphere Reserve. The annual tourist’s influx in Sikkim state has increased by about ten times over a span of last 10 years. At present nearly 69% of total households income comes from tourism related activities, which increased the income and consumption pattern of the community. Interestingly the local stakeholders have increased their share to conserve the biodiversity through organizing themselves in Khangchendzonga Conservation Committee (KCC), and managing site enhancement activities. The study suggests that the area has an economic potential far greater than its realized earning potential, and that more effort is needed to increase the level of conservation contributions to fulfil the goal of ecotourism. 

 

Visual Image of the City: Tourists' Versus Residents' Perception of Simla, a Hill Station in Northern India –

 

Rajinder Jutla - pp. 404-420

Paper Abstract: This study examined the image of Simla as perceived by tourists and residents. It revealed that there were two distinct images: one for tourists and another for residents. The tourists' image was based on the natural and cultural landscapes whereas residents' image was based on their familiarity with the city. There was some disagreement on the most popular landmarks and areas. Both tourists and residents were dissatisfied with the present development of Simla. The study concludes that there is an urgent need for landscape conservation though the development of new design guidelines.

Keywords: City Image, Urban Tourism, Urban Design, Tourism Planning and Development, Environmental Perception, Indian Cities.

 

State and Development: Changes in Livelihood Strategies in Garhwal with Special Reference to Ecotourism in the Gangotri Region

Gitanjali Chaturvedi

321 Asiad Village, New Delhi 110049, India

E-mail:gitanjali420@email.com

 

Paper Abstract: The object of the paper is to provide an insight into the changes in livelihood strategies of the people in the Garhwal Himalayas over time. From sustaining an economy based on transit trade and subsistence agriculture, there has been a shift towards tourism in recent times. This shift has been due to the tradition of pilgrimage to the higher reaches and also due to promotion by the state by developing infrastructure and providing incentives.

The paper is divided into four parts. In the first part, the policies of the colonial state and the events leading to the destruction of forests and the impoverishment of the self-sustaining semi-pastoral economy in the Garhwal Himalayas are outlined. It is argued that the destruction of forests and subsequently, the economy of the Himalayas were directly responsible for the large-scale migration to the plains. This also led to further exploitation of forests by the people who were unfamiliar with any other form of livelihood. The paper also discusses the policies of the newly independent Indian state and sees them as an extension of the British policy of large-scale exploitation of Himalayan forests for the purpose of development and economic growth. In the third section, the growth of ecotourism as a direct outcome of the process of deforestation and as resulting

from the need of society to conserve and yet to earn a livelihood is discussed. The case study of the Gangotri region examines the dilemma faced by the people of Garhwal in sustaining their livelihood, income or the development in the area. In addition, tourism has fostered monopolies of groups external to the region thereby contributing neither to the income or the development in the area. In addition, there is an added threat to the environment–deforestation, and erosion–a direct outcome of increased and unplanned tourism. Such problems demand state intervention and management of tourism. The conclusion to the paper asserts that in order that the requirements of the society to progress and to sustain itself in its natural habitat are not compromised, it is essential to increase the process of democratization by strengthening local structures and by vesting the community with the autonomy to determine its future.

The paper therefore argues that ecotourism in the Himalayas undertaken without local involvement is not desirable. The constant need for local monitoring of external agencies or even of the State's participation and the need for re-evaluation of environmental standards are cumbersome details that add to the costs of promoting low-impact tourism. To be viable, ecotourism should be community based and the needs of the community, their ideas of conservation should be given prime importance and local community must be encouraged to review standards governing conservation. Local structures should thus receive patronage and promotion, so that ecotourism becomes a dynamic facet of economic development.

Keywords: Gangotri, Garhwal, Himalayas, ecotourism, Uttaranchal, participation.

 

Establishing ecotourism in Mahabaleshwar

and Panchgani, India

 

T. Woods

Institute of Development Studies, UK

 

Paper Abstract: The hill stations of Mahabaleshwar and Panchgani in the Western Ghats, India, have been a popular location since British soldiers visited to escape the heat of the lowland plains. In recent years, the growth of India's consumer class, combined with increasing access to private and public transport, has led to damaging new tourist developments. Problems include the clearance of natural vegetation for hotels and facilities, the cutting of trees for fuel wood, increased pressure on water and electricity resources, pollution from vehicles,overcrowding and litter. These are serious concerns, due to the fragility andecological importance of the forest and scrubland in the region. The character ofMahabaleshwar in particular has also changed, from a tranquil place for relaxingand appreciating nature to a busy commercialized resort.Local authorities and environmental groups have made efforts to control these problems, but these have so far proved ineffective. Few people want to limit the growth of tourism in the region; most local residents, business owners and government planners favour the continued growth of mass tourism. This

raises important questions about who should dictate the future pattern of tourismand whether environmental preservation is preferable to local economic growth,even when there are few alternative prospects.This study examines why previous measures to make tourism more environmentally sustainable have been unsuccessful. A management plan is suggested which divides the region into zones of different tourism activity, withan emphasis on establishing ecotourism. This proposal is a new approach tosolving the problems caused by tourism and, in theory, satisfies the conflictingaims of environmental preservation and economic development.

 

Keywords: carrying capacity, economic development, ecotourism, protected

area management, zoning.

© 2005 WIT Press WIT Transactions on Ecology and the Environment, Vol 81,

www.witpress.com, ISSN 1743-3541 (on-line)

Ecosystems and Sustainable Development V 301

 

Conservation and Development in Arunachal Pradesh, India

Jon Miceler, Director AP Programs, Inner Asian Conservation

Paper Abstract: Bordered on the west by Bhutan, to the north by China (Tibet) and to the east by Myanmar, the extreme northeast Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh remains today a world little changed by the global forces rapidly shaping other parts of Asia. The sheer inaccessibility of this land where 64% of the its geographic area is classified as mountainous, coupled with geopolitical tensions between India and China, has preserved arguably the most biodiverse, intact ecosystem left in Asia. This biodiversity is facilitated by:

• Convergence in the region of three major floral groups; the Indochinese/Indomalayan tropical lowland flora, the Sino-Himalayan/East Asiatic flora and the Western/Central Himalayan flora;
• Influence by two separate monsoonal systems; and
• Variation in elevation from 160 meters at the Assam border to over 7,000 meters on the mountain tops that form the states border with China.

Inner Asian Conservation (IAC) has chosen to focus its conservation and development initiatives at this tri-junction of political and ecological worlds. We are approaching conservation here with the understanding that conservation can best be sustained with concurrent rise in the economic welfare of human communities living in and around target areas.

Goals:
Creation of new protected areas in key areas adjacent to large and intact forests in China, Bhutan and Myanmar.

1. Eastern Arunachal Hayuliang Biosphere Reserve:
The creation of the 5,000 km2 Hayuliang Biosphere Reserve in eastern Arunachal’s will occur first. This PA is contiguous with other protected areas in both China and Myanmar and abuts two of the states already established reserves. When protected the Biosphere Reserve will create an entirely contiguous 2 million hectare transboundary conservation complex- the largest in Asia- effectively linking the Eastern Himalaya/Indo Burma regions.

2. Western Arunachal Alaya Corridor Biosphere Reserve:
The 2,700 km2 Alaya Corridor Biosphere Reserve runs parallel to the Bhutan border. This reserve is also contiguous with three protected areas in Bhutan.

3. Community Based Ecotourism:
Prior to the creation of these reserve, IAC has been involved in implementing community based ecotourism and other micro-enterprise initiatives which focus on local monitoring and enforcement of quality control measures to avoid pitfalls, such as elite capture and overbuilding, other areas of India: (Manali, Ladakh and Gangtok) continue to struggle with.

Due to Arunachal Pradesh’s scenic mountain splendor, ecotourism is a viable source of local income. At the village level, specifically near existing and potential protected areas, ecotourism in the form or trekking, wildlife tours, rafting, and mountaineering will provide part of the economic incentive to value and protect forests, rivers and wildlife as the platform upon which ecotourism and economic growth is based.

 

A pilot survey of nature-based tourism at Kaziranga National Park and World Heritage Site, India
Rahul J. Shrivastava and Joel T. Heinen

Paper Abstract: Tourism is increasingly becoming theme-specific in India and has attracted new interest from the government and private sector. India accounts for 0.37% of international tourist arrivals and 0.66% of the world tourism revenue. International arrivals numbered 2.54 million in 2001, while domestic travelers were estimated at 234 million. The Union Budget of 2002-03 announced the development of six new international tourism circuits in the country, including Guwahati-Kaziranga-Shillong-Tawang in the northeast.

During the past decade, tourist arrivals at Kaziranga National Park, home to the endangered one-horned rhinoceros have fluctuated due to political unrest, with the situation improving in recent years. In 2000-01, under a larger study of park-people relations at Kaziranga, a questionnaire based pilot survey was undertaken to develop a profile of the visitors, their wildlife interests and willingness to pay. The random sample comprised 10 respondents, domestic and foreign. Mean respondent age was 42.1 years (SE = 5.2, SD = 16.3), 27.6% of domestic visitors were < 18 years with no foreign visitors in that age class. Length of stay and willingness to pay for viewing wildlife differed significantly between foreign and domestic visitors. Foreign visitors stayed longer and were willing to spend more. An overwhelming 80% of all visitors derived maximum enjoyment from viewing rhinos compared to other species. Domestic visitors preferred to make monetary donations benefiting wildlife/livestock veterinary services, while foreigners were keen on local employment and Park protection. The survey identified key differences between domestic and foreign visitors and found potential for expanding community involvement in deriving benefits from nature-based tourism.

Contact
Department of Environmental Studies and
Southeast Environmental Research Center, Florida International University,
University Park, Miami, Florida 33199, USA
Fax: 305-348-6202,

 

Eco-tourism to protect the reserve mangrove forest of the Sundarbans and its flora and fauna

M. Abdus Salam

, Lindsay, G. Ross

and Malcolm C. M. Beveridge
 

Institute of Aquaculture, University of Stirling, Stirling FK9 4LA, Scotland, U. K.

Phone: +44 1786 475469(Res.), +44 1786 466594, Fax+44 1786 472133, E-mail: mas2@stir.ac.uk

Paper Abstract: Nature based tourism is increasing throughout the world. Most is based in national parks and restricted areas. UNESCO has declared 28% of the world’s largest continuous mangrove forest, the Sundarbans, as a world heritage site in 1987. But having the world’s densest population, it is difficult to protect the flora and fauna unless there are economic benefits to the country as well as to the local people. This paper suggests that nature-oriented tourism can be one means to help achieve sustainability in the reserve forest as well as protecting the important world heritage site. Well-planned tourism could provide economic and political incentives for proper management and for conservation and could bring additional benefit to local communities and regional economies. The paper focuses on how to minimize the impact of tourist intervention in the reserve forest using Geographical Information Systems (GIS) as a tool, with Landsat TM remote sensing imagery and Information Technology (IT) as primary data sources.

 

Key words: Bangladesh, mangrove, eco-tourism, sustainable, planning, GIS

 

ECO-TOURISM IN WETLANDS, SUSTAINABLE LIVELIHOODS AND BIO-DIVERSITY CONSERVATION:

 

Some Lessons in Policy Making and Practice

From Case Studies on National Nature Reserves Sanjiang Plain, (Helionjiang Province) China, Longxi Honkou Nature Reserve

(Sichuan Province) and Keoladeo Ghana Bird Sanctuary,

Bharatpur, (Rajasthan) India

Dr. Neela Mukherjee and Dr. Amitava Mukherjee

Development Tracks RTC,

Paper Abstract: Though many Asian countries including China and India would like to develop eco-tourism activities in huge areas covered with natural wetlands they are faced with at least two major issues in many of such wetland areas. One issue is how to develop and manage the ‘know-how’ for eco-tourism without posing threat to the bio-diversity in the wetlands. The other issue is how to integrate eco-tourism with the biological and the sociological worlds. It is well known that natural wetlands are one of the most threatened eco-systems in both China and India. Hence the issue is finding out ways of preserving the basic functioning of eco-systems of wetlands in terms of water storage, climate control and bio-diversity preservation and at the same time utilizing such resource base for supporting eco-tourism-related activities. Such eco-tourism activities have implications for the local communities residing in and around such wetlands. This is in view of the fact that both in China and India wetlands constitute habitats not only for rare species of plants, animals and birds and breeding areas for migratory birds but also extend into man-made habitats ofsociological world. With human pressures all around wetlands preservation is also a question of providing sustainable livelihoods where eco-tourism is a good opportunity for community involvement for sourcing their livelihoods and a way for bio-diversity preservation.

The paper addresses the issue of eco-tourism based on local community participation in wetland management. The objective is how eco-tourism can be developed and managed in a manner whereby all threats to global bio-diversity are removed and also options for sustainable livelihoods are created. The present understanding amongst many wetland policy makers, managers and tour operators about the complexities of wetlands as a social problem embedded within the biological world is abysmally low.

It is not always easy to understand and appreciate eco-tourism as aptly described below.

"Ecotourism operators and "free independent travelers" each share a commitment to tread lightly on the land and culture, and support the local economy at their destination. Ecotourism is not defined by the distance traveled, but rather how it's accomplished and what is experienced."

(By Ron Mader, Webhost/Planeta.com)

The three basic challenges generally faced in this area relate to bio-diversity conservation, promotion of community development and management of eco-tourism as a viable alternative. Given the threatened eco systems of wetlands in Asia, eco-tourism needs to be managed in such a way that the integral values and functions of wetlands are maintained and enriched and also such activities yield reasonable pay offs at the local level.

The paper is based on four case studies from China and India as follows.

(1) Honghe National Nature Reserve, Helionjiang Province, China

(2) Sanjiang National Nature Reserve, Helionjiang Province, China

(3) Longxi-Hongkou National Nature Reserve, Sichuan Province, China

(4) Keoladeo Ghana Bird Sanctuary, Bharatpur, Rajasthan State, India

 

The case studies are based on the methodology of PRA (Participatory Rural Appraisal), which is being used extensively for field research and community participation.

Drawing lessons from the four case studies from China and India, the paper shows the need to integrate wetlands functions, eco-tourism and sustainable livelihoods for which capacity building at the local and other levels is a critical factor. The types of capacity building would depend on the type of wetlands, their status and significance, their degradation factor, local community perspectives, existing skill existing practices, wetland policy framework and nature of eco-tourism-related activities.

With building of appropriate capacities at different levels, the three basic challenges of bio-diversity conservation, promotion of community development and running eco-tourism on a viable basis can be met to a reasonable extent. However, these are necessary conditions though not sufficient for there are policy issues at the national and global level, which also need to synchronized with efforts at the local level. Based on the four case studies selected lessons have been drawn for national and global policy-making and practice

 

 

Rejuvenation of Chilika Lagoon - an example of ecological restoration with community participation

Mr Ajit Pattnaik
Chilika Development Authority
C-5, BJB Nagar, Bhubaneswar-14, Orissa
 Bhubaneswar, India 
ajitpattnaik@hotmail.com
Phone: +91 674 43-4035
Fax: +91 674 43-4485
 

Paper Abstract: Chilika is a unique lagoon situated along the east coast of India and a Ramsar site. It is hotspots of biodiversity and shelters a number of endangered species listed in the IUCN red list of threatened species and an avian grandeur for more than one million migratory birds and is a designated Ramsar Site. The highly productive lagoon eco-system with its rich fishery resources sustains the livelihood of more than 0.2 million-fisher folk who live in and around the lagoon. The lagoon had been facing multidimensional ecological and anthropogenic pressure leading to siltation, choking of the seawater inlet channel, fall in salinity level, proliferation of invasive species, and decrease in fish yield, an overall loss of biodiversity and productivity adversely affecting the livelihood of the local community who depend on the lagoon. Due to above reason the lagoon was added to the list the Montreux Record in 1993. Following this, the Chilika Development Authority carried out the restoration of the lagoon based on the principles of wise use and ecosystem approach, with a major emphasis on the community participation with shared decision-making and capacity building. One of the major interventions was the desiltation of the channel connecting the lagoon to the sea and opening of a new mouth to restore the natural flows of water and salinity levels. This resulted notably, in the improvement of the lagoon ecosystem with a phenomenal increase in the lagoon’s fish yield and the reduction of freshwater invasive species. Other measures include management of the catchment in a participatory manner; protection of bird habitat and of bird species; economic incentives to the local population to stop poaching of birds; measures to improve the socio-economic conditions, such as training programmes to develop community based eco-tourism, provision of solar streetlight systems to island villages, development of a ferry service for isolated villages, construction of landing facilities for fisher folk, networking of the NGOs and CBOs, as well as education and environmental awareness activities. The increase in the productivity level in both the wetland as well as the watershed due to the good environmental practices facilitated the poverty alleviation of the community. This has facilitated the self-initiated participatory process for conservation and wise-use of the resources of the Chilika lagoon through adaptation of good practices and local ownership by the community which is important for sustainability. Chilika lagoon is a striking example of how restoration of the ecological characteristics of a site can result not only in improvement of the lagoon ecosystem but also immensely benefit the community depending on the wetland, whose average annual income increased by more than Rs. 50,000 per annum (US$ 1040 approx.) per family. The restoration of Chilika lagoon derives its uniqueness from the strong participation of local communities, linkage with various national and international institutions, and intensive monitoring and assessment systems. The case of Chilika lagoon is a perfect example of how the listing of a site on the Montreux Record can be used to promote measures to correct change in ecological character of a site, and to improve the socio-economic conditions of the population living in and around the site. The Ramsar Wetlands Award 2002 was conferred on CDA for the outstanding achievement in the restoration of the lagoon with the active involvement of the local community

 

 

 Development of Eco-Tourism in tribal regions of Orissa:

Potential and Recommendations

Centre for East-West Cultural and Economic Studies, Bond University (Australia), Research Paper No. 11, February 2005, 

By Nilakantha Panigrahi *

 

Paper Abstract: Eco-tourism both at conceptual and empirical levels is significant in a number of respects. Traditionally it encapsulates scientific, aesthetic, and philosophical approaches which reflect the structure and function of the society. Over the decades numerous changes have been observed both in the content and context of eco-tourism. With globalisation the processes of these changes not only widened and multiplied, but also gained in importance. The present research paper in observing the treasure of tourism of the Orissa region in eastern India emphasises the potential of eco-tourism in the scheduled areas which are largely dominated by the tribal communities. It argues - and concludes by way of recommendations - that if eco-tourism is properly developed it can not only attract tourists from far and near, but can also generate more revenue for the inhabitants of the region and for the state.

Key words: Eco-Tourism, Tribal Communities, Ethno-Cultural groups, Scheduled Areas, Tribal Museum.

*Dr Nilakantha Panigrahi is from the Faculty in Anthropology, NKC Center for Development Studies (ICSSR supported Center), Bhubaneswar, Orissa, India, Email: nilakantha62@yahoo.co.in and ncdsvc@sancharnet.in

 

 

 Project in Periyar Tiger Reserve

 

By

Dr. Santosh. P. Thampi

Reader, Department of Commerce & Management Studies,

University of Calicut, Kerala, India,

spthampi@rediffmail.com

The ECOCLUB.com E-Paper Series is available FREE on the Internet at

the ECOCLUB.com Ecotourism Library:

http://ecoclub.com/library/

The url of this paper is: http://www.ecoclub.com/library/epapers/13.pdf

THAMPI, Josh, Ecotourism in Kerala, India: Lessons from the Eco-Development Project in Periyar Tiger Reserve, Nr.13, June 2005.

p2

Paper Abstract: The purpose of this article is to describe and evaluate the ecotourism project at the Periyar Tiger Reserve (Thekkady), in Kerala, India. The Ministry of Environment has undertaken to promote local community participation in forest management, through the “India - Eco – Development” programme in seven states. In Kerala, the ‘Thekkady Tiger Trail’ project was launched a couple of years ago in the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary.

In the Periyar Tiger Trail project, the members involved are the former inhabitants of the forest, who use to make a living by illegal trading of forest goods. Their activity was thus detrimental to the conservation of the forest. However, their intimate knowledge about the plants and animals, and their survival instincts could be best used for participatory ecotourism activities. Besides the Tiger Trail, other ecotourism products of the Periyar Tiger Reserve are: Bamboo Rafting, Day Trekking Programme, Tribal Heritage, Bamboo Grove, Jungle Inn and Wild adventures. A brief account of Ecotourism initiatives in the Periyar Tiger Reserve and a review of the project, based on the principles of Ecotourism are included in this article.
 

Behavioral Perspective of Pilgrims and Tourists in Banaras (Kashi), India

 

Dr. Pravin S. Rana

Visiting Faculty, Dept. of History of Art and Tourism Management (Faculty of Arts), Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, UP 221005. INDIA. E-mail: pravinrana@yahho.com

 

Paper Abstract: Pilgrims are the special tourists whose purpose is to visit the place where they become involved in the religious activities, that is how the group pilgrimage tourists. Differences in behavioural attributes like perception, attitudes and motives vary according the cultural background and personality. In a holy city of Banaras, majority of domestic tourists is pilgrimage tourists, whose behaviour depends upon the exposure, which they have before visiting the city. The first dominant impression of tourists about this city is the religious notion like one of the most sacred cities for Hindus, the abode of Shiva and ghats along with the Ganga river. The Ganga river in Varanasi is the main attraction for all the visitors, but perceptual levels and degrees vary. Domestic pilgrimage tourists visiting Varanasi mainly involve in rituals and religious festivities, while foreign tourists enjoy recreation.

Key words: Cognitive map, the Ganga river, image, international tourist, perception, pilgrimage tourist.